Daragh Fleming
Daragh Fleming, a writer, poet, and mental health advocate from Cork, Ireland, joined us as a guest on The Global Discussion podcast. With a unique blend of talent, insight, and a passion for promoting positive mental health and well-being, Daragh has made significant contributions to the literary world and mental health advocacy.
Daragh's journey as a writer began with the release of two collections of short stories, published back-to-back in 2019 and 2020 by Riversong Books. His conversational writing style and a profound understanding of human experiences deliver stories that captivate readers like no other. In addition to his published works, Daragh's writings have graced the pages of online journals such as Small Leaf Press, Idle Ink, HeadStuff, Books Ireland Magazine, and more.
Daragh has ventured into the realm of poetry without limiting himself to prose. His second poetry chapbook, "Poems That Were Written On Trains But Weren't Written About Trains," was published by Dark Thirty Poetry in July 2022, showcasing his ability to evoke emotions through the power of verse.
Daragh's impact extends beyond the written word. As the Communications Lead for A Lust For Life, an Irish mental health charity, he is vital in raising awareness and supporting those in need. Moreover, Daragh serves as an ambassador for See Change Ireland, a charity dedicated to breaking down mental health stigma, and DaSillyHeads, a mental health apparel brand that fights against stigma.
His dedication to promoting mental health and well-being earned him several accolades, including winning the Cork Arts 'From The Well' Short Story Competition in 2021.
Lonely Boy: A Candid Exploration of Mental Health
One of Daragh's notable achievements is the publication of his debut non-fiction work, "Lonely Boy." This collection of essays explores mental health, well-being, and recovery. Daragh's honest and introspective portrayal of his own experiences opens a window into the human psyche, addressing topics such as grief, relationships, panic attacks, and societal expectations.
"Lonely Boy" was not initially intended to be a book but started as a personal journaling exercise. Daragh's introspection and exploration revealed areas he had missed from a unique perspective and his flaws, which he decided to share with readers through essays. By doing so, he seeks to encourage open and earnest discussions about mental health, challenging the stigma surrounding it.
Normalizing Conversations on Mental Health
Daragh's overarching mission is to normalize conversations around mental health. Through his blog and enterprise, Thoughts Too Big, he strives to overcome daily mental health issues by fostering a community that values self-reflection and growth. He believes that openly discussing our struggles and vulnerabilities can inspire others to do the same, leading to a snowball effect that normalizes discussions about mental well-being.
In his book, "Lonely Boy," Daragh emphasizes the importance of addressing our flaws and accepting our imperfections. By embracing our true selves, the good and the bad, we can achieve consistent well-being and personal growth. His candid and intimate writing style invites readers to reflect on their mental journeys, empowering them to seek meaning and self-discovery.
Daragh's multifaceted journey as a writer, poet, and mental health advocate has profoundly impacted the literary community and mental health sphere. His dedication to promoting positive mental well-being and his remarkable storytelling abilities make him a formidable force in the world of words and advocacy.
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