Dad's honest post on depression goes viral eight years after he almost attempted suicide

One dad's honest and open tweet about wanting to take his own life eight years ago has gone viral for all the right reasons.

Craig Stone, an author, posted an image to his Twitter account and encapsulated what life with depression is really like – in less than 50 words.

The 28-year-old wrote simply: 'See that bench. 8yrs ago I sat on it thinking about throwing myself off Blackfriars Bridge.'

'Today, I took this pic of my son. Tomorrow might be the same. But it might also be brighter. It might even bring unimaginable brilliance. Hang in there. Love is always coming. #depression'.

The dad admitted in an additional tweet that he had no idea how to ask for help or even where to go at the time: 'The mind is incredibly skilful at making negative thoughts seem correct, or like they are the last lifejacket. So even when the world is on fire, you just convince yourself heat is necessary,' he said.

Since Craig shared his innermost thoughts, the tweet has had over 21k likes and 6k shares, and an overwhelming response from fellow users who thanked him for being so candid, and assured him that he's 'definitely not alone'.

'It's very good to see people sharing their stories. Keep sharing!' commended one Twitter user.

'I have been going through a severe depression myself. Your tweet helps me see out today's day and probably tomorrow and then the day after,' said another. 'Thank you for sharing this and unknowingly inspiring me to fight another day. strength to you!'

'Thank YOU for this,' exclaimed a third. 'I wouldn't have imagined that 280 characters are all that I needed to help me go through this. Yes, I will keep fighting. You will be glad to know that you have helped at least one person on this earth to climb out of this pit. X'

In response to this tweet, Craig explained that the best way out of a pit is to announce you have fallen, then 'look for the hand', adding: 'Trying to climb out yourself is exhausting...'

'Well done, Craig. Your son will be proud at your vast strength & resilience when he looks back at this photograph down the years.. with his old man standing by his side :)' applauded another commenter.