William Balme is an educator, filmmaker and podcaster, however if labels were an indication of the deepest part of a human, he is also one of the many statistics reeled off in mental health presentations.

Diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder at 20 and ADHD at 31, William understands that an anxiety disorder is much more than just a raised heartrate and a tight chest.

It can be totally life altering.

However, while searching in the darkness, we often find the light. Acceptance, growth, a greater understanding of our emotions and thoughts, building deeper and more fulfilling bonds with friends, family and people we may never have felt close to.

In conjunction with director Vinnie Petrilli, the documentary ‘Letters to Anxiety’ is the result of years of focusing on how we can tear down the walls of stigma and shame and how connection, creativity and close-knit community can be part of the answer to creating more confidence in approaching deeply challenging periods of individual and collective struggle.

In 2025, William is setting out to bring his story and illuminate and amplify the stories of many, many others through screenings of the short film ‘Letters to Anxiety’ and an interactive presentation about how we can become better equipped to deal with our ‘greatest health concern.’*

I can sit around and hope. I can curse the hand I’ve been dealt and wallow in self-pity. Or I can make something from this. I can piece it back together. I can write and write. I can talk about it, I can listen… For I am emotional and exuberant and flamboyant and scared and hopeful all at the same time, and I refuse to be defined by your presence.

Source: Sax Institute, 2023.