Melksham film-maker’s mental health documentary has its premiere

A YOUNG film-maker from Melksham premiered her first documentary at the Odeon cinema in Trowbridge earlier this month.

The documentary titled ‘Mental Health – You’re Not Alone’ was made by 20 year-old Ashlea Forgacs to promote mental health issues after suffering from anxiety herself.

The premiere was attended by the Mayor of Melksham, cllr Adrienne Westbrook, and cllr Hayley Spencer, who also appears in the documentary with her daughter.

“The premiere went really well, there was a nice turnout,” said Ashlea. “It was quite nerve-racking as I quite felt self-conscious about people watching my work because I was worried about whether people would like it or not.

“But it was also a relief when it was over because it meant I could start the sharing process with the public.”

Before the premiere Ashlea hoped that the documentary would offer reassurance to people with mental health problems, inspiring them to talk to others.

Following on from the premiere, Ashlea has been amazed by the response. “The reaction was really positive. And the best thing is, people are beginning to share their stories. A person I know, never spoke of her mental health before my video, which is amazing.”

Looking to the future, Ashlea said, “I would hope to make similar content that will effectively encourage people to improve their life or improve their opinions of certain groups of people.”

You can watch Ashlea’s documentary in full by visiting You Tube and searching for the channel ‘Mental Health You’re Not Alone’.

Above: Supportive friends Charlie Dodge, Alex Gerrish, Cameron Gerrish and Logan Gerrish with Ashlea Forgacs, Mayor of Melksham cllr Adrienne Westbrook and cllr Hayley Spencer and her daughter.