Hello world! I’m Bryony, and I’m an alcoholic. I’m also a journalist, author and mental health campaigner from London. Oh, and a mum. I started writing about my experiences with OCD and depression 12 years ago, in an act of desperation, to try and find other people like me. It changed my life, and now I try as much as possible to write on the things that make me feel bad about myself… in the hope it will make others feel good about themselves.
I have been a journalist at the Telegraph for 23 years, which makes me feel very old. I have had seven books published. Five of them were Sunday Times Bestsellers, two were NUMBER ONE Sunday Times Bestsellers, and I’m breaking into a sweat as I write this because even though I am 42 I *still* feel embarrassed when I write down my achievements. But, you know, needs must…
In 2016, I founded Mental Health Mates, a peer support group that exists all over the UK. I have interviewed numerous people about their mental health, from royalty to politicians to president’s sons… to people just like you and me.
I also like to do crazy things to promote body positivity - I once ran a marathon in my underwear, to show that exercise is for ALL body types, and a year later I got 1,000 women to run through the streets of London in their bra and pants, as part of an amazing running initiative called Celebrate You. Last year I ran ten 10ks in ten days, and raised £10,000 for charity. Because why not?
I’ve set up this Substack because I wanted to create a space on the internet where I could share some of my thoughts for free, as well as a few intimate - and unedited! - conversations. I look forward to sharing more with you soon.
I loved reading this! It’s an amazing space you’re creating here. I also love how open and honest you are on Instagram as well, a true inspiration.
Hi Bryony, am a great fan of yours after reading your books and I also really enjoy following you on Instagram - love your openness, authenticity, strength and vulnerability. They help us feel strong and ok with our own vulnerabilities. Great chat with Harry.