Powerful Music Video by Darren McGarvey Highlights Mental Health and Addiction
04 April, 2026
Warning: This video includes strong language, staged drug abuse and threat of suicide.
When we learned that our patron Darren McGarvey, had made this powerful and disturbing music video raising awareness of the mental health side of addiction, we wanted to share it here. Darren, an award winning author, social commentator, broadcaster and musician, says:
“Perhaps the cruellest symptom of all for those of us who suffer from addiction, is the mental aspect of the illness: it tells us we aren’t sick. That we’re not that bad. That we can deal with it tomorrow. I explore how quickly an addict can descend into the darkest of places before they even realise it.”
The film was directed by Gasp Glasgow and shot by 0405photography and features two songs from Darren’s album ‘Not Funded By Creative Scotland’. He continues:
“If you are struggling, you are not alone. Support is closer than you think. But you have to make the first move and admit you have a problem. A problem no amount of contemplation or will power is ever going to solve. Make 2026 the year you turned your life around. I promise you: We do recover.”
Kath Norgate, EMDR UK’s Past President says: “Addiction is often a way to avoid or find relief from unresolved past trauma but brings its own traumatic consequences. Most people will find help within a rehab setting or sobriety programme. EMDR therapy can be helpful in addressing trauma, even with non-abstinent clients particularly if the Feeling State protocol (effective in the treatment of behavioural addictions) is considered suitable.”
If you or someone you know is struggling. If any of the issues raised in this piece connect to your own experience, support is available. You don’t need to be at “rock bottom” to reach out.
Support Resources:
Crisis / immediate help
999: If there is immediate danger.
NHS: 111 — 24/7 mental health support.
Emotional distress
Samaritans
116 123 — Free, confidential listening, 24/7.
Shout
Text SHOUT to 85258 — 24/7 text support.
Breathing Space
0800 83 85 87 — For people in Scotland feeling overwhelmed or distressed.
Alcohol and drugs
Cocaine Anonymous (CA)
0800 612 0225 — Support for anyone who wants to stop using cocaine or other stimulants.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – 0800 917 7650 — Support for people with a desire to stop drinking.
We Are With You – Free, confidential support for drugs, alcohol and mental health (UK-wide).
Drinkline Scotland – 0800 7314 314 — Advice about your own or someone else’s drinking.
Know the Score – 0800 587 5879 — Drugs advice and local support in Scotland.
EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy referrals are available on the NHS. Alternatively, for a list of accredited therapists go to our ‘Find a Therapist’ page https://map.emdrassociation.org.uk/
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You can read more about Darren and listen to our podcast interview with him here: https://emdrassociation.org.uk/2025/01/meet-darren-mcgarvey-emdr-uks-new-patron-podcast/