DEPRESSION and suicide are subjects which many is still considered a taboo to talk about.

However, a Basingstoke poet has found the light in the dark with his latest project, and is hoping it will help those who are struggling to seek help.

Sheldon Sinnamon, pictured, 25, better known as the man behind King of Clowns Poetry, has made a video for his poem Embrace which takes a no-holds barred look into the subject.

The Rooksdown resident said: “I didn’t want to glamorise the subject matter, so some of the imagery is quite dark. But I think if you show the journey someone in that mindset goes through it sends a clearer message.

“A lot of people struggle with talking about their mental health and just brush it under the carpet. Through the video I wanted to show a dark kind of beauty and that there is a light for those who need help.”

The 25-year-old said he has drawn inspiration for personal experiences in the past and having usually focused on the darker side of things, now wanted to reach out to people in a different way.

He added: “I wanted to do this in an attempt to reach vulnerable people and inspire them that life can be better.

“After all everybody deserves to see the beauty of life.”

Since launching the video, Sheldon said he has had a great response and believes by spending a positive message or just telling someone you are there to listen really helps.

Sheldon said: “If we all come together we will all be in a stronger position and that is what I am hoping my work will achieve.”

In May, The Gazette launched its ‘Talk About It’ campaign in a bid to get more people to talk about their mental health and to seek the support they need.

You can watch the video for Sheldon’s poem on YouTube by visiting youtube.com/watch?v=nCtVqKHXmJE.

For those seeking help, the Samaritans helpline is available 24 hours per day, seven days a week on 116 123. Or, go to samaritans.org.