Philip's Story
Philip shares his story of burning out and quitting work in the finance sector to better manage his depression and focus on his passions.
"It’s okay not to be okay, and take it one day at a time."
About Philip:
I’m a 28 year old ecommerce candle business owner and founder of Bro Sense Candles. Every candle sold we donate a portion of sales to support men’s mental health foundations and projects so they can continue to do the great work that they do! If you want to get a better idea of my personality and what I do check out my Instagram and Tiktok for a better idea!
WHAT WAS THE MAJOR TURNING POINT IN YOUR RECOVERY FROM DEPRESSION?
I have been struggling with depression and anxiety since I was a teenager and I didn’t know how to talk about it. However, after graduating college and working full-time in banking the last 5 years my depression would get worse as I was feeling burnt out and mentally drained. My “turning point” for me was when I realized that I deserved better and there is more to life than working a job I dread going to everyday for a paycheck. So, I quit and decided to work on improving myself and doing something more meaningful that I enjoy waking up to.
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT REALLY HELPED?
Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares.
- I was lucky to have a girlfriend who is patient and understanding. She would listen and help me open up my bottle of emotions.
The gym
- As cliche as it sounds, I found out that working out was a great way to use my energy and clear my mind. I would feel a sense of accomplishment to continue with the day on a positive note.
Take a break for times or days that you don’t feel 100%.
- With these breaks do things that you enjoy and make you happy. Even a 15 minute walk can be a positive mood changer if you don’t have the time to take an hour or full day off. If I’m feeling lazy about the walk or working out, I tell myself “I can do it, and it’ll be worth it” in case you need a little push.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER GUYS FIGHTING DEPRESSION?
It’s okay not to be okay, and take it one day at a time. Always treat others with kindness because you never know what the other person is going through, and that act of kindness can make all the difference in the world to you and to them.
– Philip, Bro Sense Candles. Vancouver, BC, Canada 
