South West author & advocate Josh Langley’s will to inspire recognised with Mental Health Awards nomination

An award-winning Ferguson Valley author using his experience with mental health to help the younger generation to better understand their feelings has been nominated for a top award for his work. Josh Langley was last week named a finalist for the WA Mental Health Awards recognising him for his tireless dedication and contribution in the “lived experience impact and inspiration award” category. The award recognises those who have experienced trauma or mental health issues in the past and now used their lived experience to inspire others, which Mr Langley does through his books. Mr Langley, pictured, has penned five children’s books, all of which are written as if he was speaking to his younger self. “They’re based around this premise of what I’d go back and tell my eight-year-old self,” he said. “I had a difficult childhood, so it’s about telling him that it’s OK and giving him skills. Hopefully this helps get the message to young people that it’s important to talk about their emotions and feelings and those skills become a habit as they get older.” The mental health advocate works with schools and parents to help shape young minds to let go of their internal struggle and learn to process their emotions. He was also this month named one of three Westfield Local Heroes for his work with the Children’s Tumour Foundation. “I’ve won $10,000 for them to fund a special book project putting together real life stories of kids with neurofibromatosis to give to newly-diagnosed kids and families,” Mr Langley said. The WA Mental Health Awards winners will be announced at the ceremony on November 25.