The Climb Back Up: Andy’s Journey of Strength and Recovery

Andy’s story is a powerful reminder of how a personal journey of recovery can grow into something bigger: helping others rediscover purpose, strength, and community through climbing.

Andy’s mental health struggles crept in gradually. Years of pressure, especially from work, left him withdrawn, irritable, and isolated. “I didn’t want to go out. I drank alone. I couldn’t enjoy the things I used to love,” he reflects.

In early 2021, he reached his lowest point and attempted to take his own life. Thankfully, he was found in time and taken to hospital. Surrounded by his family, friends, and son, Andy had a moment of realisation, and made a commitment to himself to rebuild his life, however hard it might be.

Soon after, Andy joined Andy’s Man Club, a nationwide network of peer-support groups offering a safe space for men to talk and be heard. “Even getting the courage to log in to my first online session took three tries,” Andy says. “But once I did, I felt like a weight had lifted. Hearing other men talk so openly, I realised: that’s me. I’m not alone.”

In 2022, Andy heard about a 10-week indoor climbing course being offered at ROKT Climbing Gym, a NICAS-accredited centre in West Yorkshire. The course was part of a social impact initiative run by ROKT Foundation, in collaboration with local NHS Recovery College for Calderdale & Kirklees and supported by their ongoing partnership with Andy’s Man Club.

Andy decided to give it a go...

Read more about Andy's journey upwards.