The Soloist



These final words of the film ‘The Soloist’, spoken by Robert Downey Junior, moved me to tears and epitomise the bravery shown by people with mental health issues and those who try to support them. 
A year ago I met a man who was down on his luck and thought I might be able to help him. I don’t know that I have. Yes, my friend Mr. Ayres now sleeps inside. He has a key. He has a bed. But his mental state and his wellbeing are as precarious now as they were the day we met. There are people who tell me I have helped him. Mental health experts who say that the simple act of being someone’s friend can change his brain chemistry and improve his functioning in the world. I can’t speak for Mr. Ayres in that regard. Maybe our friendship has helped him but maybe not. I can however speak for myself. I can tell you that by witnessing Mr. Ayres' courage, his humility, his faith in the power of his art, I’ve earned the dignity of being loyal to something you believe in. Above all else, I believe it will carry you home.

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