%20(13).avif)
Marv is a dad of three from Kent, a graphic designer, and an 11-handicap golfer. A few years ago, his life completely unraveled. In a short space of time, he went through a separation, lost his job, and had to move back in with his parents. As if that wasn't heavy enough, he then survived a horrific dog attack at his son’s football match, leaving him with severe physical injuries and PTSD. Overwhelmed by anxiety and depression, he felt like he was constantly wading through "treacle".
To get his head straight, Marv leaned on his mates, therapy, and sport. Running became his daily medicine, but golf was his sanctuary. Getting out on the course gave him five solid hours where his busy brain could finally switch off and forget the weight of the world. That weekly escape gave him the space to breathe and rebuild, putting all his focus into co-parenting and showing up as the best possible dad for his kids.
Today, Marv shares his story without any filters. He wants anyone feeling stuck to know they aren't alone and that it is always good to talk.
Marv’s story proves that when it rains, it absolutely pours. Dealing with a separation, losing his job, and surviving a horrific dog attack all at once left him feeling completely bogged down, like he was trying to walk through thick treacle. When your head’s in a place that heavy, someone patting you on the back and saying, "you’ll be alright, mate," doesn't really do a thing.
What can make a difference is finding your own ways to let the pressure out. For Marv, lacing up his trainers and going for a run helped burn off the physical anxiety, while golf became his proper escape. Five solid hours out on the course let his busy brain completely power down. He figured out that taking a bit of "me time" isn't selfish in the slightest, it’s exactly what he needs to recharge his batteries so he can show up as the best possible dad for his kids.
Crucially, he didn’t try to tough it out all on his own. He put his hand up for professional therapy and leaned heavily on a solid group of mates to talk through the darkest days. He also proved that a split doesn't have to mean a broken family, working bloody hard with his ex-wife to co-parent and leave the bitterness at the door.
If there’s one massive takeaway from Marv, it’s this: happiness isn’t some magic finish line tied to a perfect life. It’s all about the journey, finding your feet again, and getting back out on the fairway.
If parts of Marv's story connect with you, these may help:
Trauma and PTSD Support – Mind provides practical guidance on living with PTSD, self-care, and finding professional help after a traumatic event.
🔗 mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd-and-complex-ptsd
Separation and Co-Parenting – Family Lives offers free advice and resources for navigating separation while keeping your children’s well-being first.
🔗 familylives.org.uk
Talking Groups – Andy’s Man Club runs free, no-pressure talking groups for men across the UK to share the load.
🔗 andysmanclub.co.uk
Therapy and Talking Support – NHS Talking Therapies lets you self-refer for free counselling or CBT anywhere in England.
🔗 nhs.uk/talking-therapies
.jpg)
.avif)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.avif)
%20(2).avif)
