Nicky Campbell, a well-known broadcaster, and his daughter Kirsty recently reflected on the profound impact of his revelations regarding the traumatic experiences he endured as a student at Edinburgh Academy. He bravely spoke about the sexual and physical abuse he suffered at the hands of teachers, sparking a significant reaction from many men who reached out to share their stories. Their collective experiences highlight the urgent need for increased awareness around childhood trauma and healing through creative outlets.
When Campbell first shared his experiences on his podcast, Different, the response was overwhelming. “Do you remember when the phone didn’t stop ringing?” he recalls. The emotional conversations that followed served as a source of strength for Campbell, revealing the power of sharing one’s truth. “I could see how powerful and impactful you were being for other people. You changed lives,” Kirsty acknowledges, emphasizing the importance of these discussions not only for healing but for community building among survivors.
In the comfort of their Clapham home, Campbell speaks candidly about the ‘industrial-scale’ abuse he witnessed and experienced during his time at an all-boys school. The conversations about trauma revealed not only personal struggles but the long-lasting effects on mental health that many have faced. Many survivors found it difficult to maintain relationships or employment and some even succumbed to substance abuse due to their unprocessed trauma. Campbell reflects on the power of his supportive family, stating, “I’ve just been so lucky… to live with fantastic human beings who have been incredible.”
As Campbell continues his journey of recovery and self-expression, he is releasing his new album, Through It All. Music has acted as a form of therapy and healing, allowing him to navigate his emotions and cope with his past experiences. He lamentingly shares, “I should have had therapy,” recognizing how music has provided that emotional outlet in lieu of professional help. “Often I’ve just disappeared into my study and a fantasy land of creation and words and chords,” he explains, emphasizing the therapeutic aspect of his creative process.
The album features a mixture of covers and original songs, each echoing themes of love and fatherhood. Some tracks serve as heartfelt tributes to his daughters; Kirsty, who still lives at home, features on covers of classic songs that were once lullabies during their upbringing. The familial bond showcased through their duets highlights the joy and love music brings to their lives, further proving music is indeed a powerful therapeutic tool.
In creating the album, Campbell channels not only his experiences but also the legacy of his adopted father, Frank, who deeply influenced his worldview. The song, “I’ll Be Seeing You,” honors Frank’s quiet strength while also touching on generational trauma, showing how stories and experiences can reverberate through families.
Coming from an adoptive background, Campbell’s life has been layered with emotions tied to identity and family. Growing up, he often felt different and battled feelings of belonging. “I felt very exposed. If you’re adopted you veer between desperately wanting to belong and thinking you never will,” he shares, demonstrating how the complexities of identity can lead to deep-seated anxieties, shaped further by childhood experiences at school.
The conversation shifted when Campbell faced overwhelming depression and was diagnosed with Bipolar II in his 50s. “That can’t have helped,” he reflects, exploring how past traumas may have contributed to his mental health challenges. Music offered an outlet for these feelings, allowing him to express vulnerability through his creative ventures.
Now, Campbell and Kirsty aim to raise awareness around ADHD after their respective diagnoses. Both have used their experiences to cultivate understanding and compassion toward those facing similar struggles. Kirsty aims to advocate for greater attention to how ADHD is perceived and managed, emphasizing the strengths individuals can draw from their conditions. “It’s about knowing how to manage them and also understanding the strengths ADHD can give you,” she articulates.
Campbell’s journey serves as a reminder that healing from trauma is far from linear. The process can be tumultuous; however, self-expression through music can serve as a beacon of hope. “What’s spilled out into the music is so much love and joy,” Campbell remarks, highlighting the therapeutic nature of creativity that transcends mere entertainment.
The album Through It All, along with the duet “Dream a Little Dream” featuring Kirsty, is now available on digital platforms like Spotify. It is more than just music; it is a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of sharing one’s story to foster community understanding.
In essence, Campbell’s experiences underscore the critical role art plays in healing. His story reflects the triumph of the human spirit over adversity, inviting all to seek solace in creativity while continuing to advocate for those who have yet to find their voice. When music becomes a form of therapy, it nurtures not only the artist but also the listeners who resonate with the shared human experience of pain, recovery, and ultimately, hope.
