"I Hated Myself for What I'd Done" | Ben West, on Losing His Brother

Mental health campaigner Ben West was 17 when his younger brother Sam took his own life. In a single night, everything changed.

Ben shares the guilt he carried afterwards, the conversations he wishes he'd known how to have, and how he eventually began to understand that he wasn't responsible for what happened.

He also explores how grief became purpose, from campaigning for better mental health education to creating Reasons to Stay, which has now shared millions of messages of hope around the world.

Together, Matt and Ben explore men's mental health, supporting someone who's struggling, and why sometimes connection matters more than having the right words.

Themes: Suicide & Bereavement, Grief & Guilt, Men's Mental Health, Purpose, and Connection.

Ben West's new book: 'Reasons to...: Letters of Hope from a World that Cares' is out in January 2027 and available to pre-order now: bit.ly/ReasonsToAMZ

Need Support?

Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org

Narcotics Anonymous: na.org

Alcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Mental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.uk

Shout: https: giveusashout.org