Trigger Warning: This content contains discussions of suicide, which may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please seek help immediately. In Australia, the crisis hotline is Lifeline, which provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. You can reach Lifeline by calling 13 11 14.

Struggling with depression for much of his life, Simon found solace and strength in the 8-Week Program after losing his girlfriend to suicide. Here’s how he reclaimed his mental health through nourishing habits and newfound kitchen confidence.

"For me, the first time I removed sugar from my diet was incredible in how mentally different I felt," Simon reflects. "After coming across the first I Quit Sugar book, I decided to just give it a go. I was surprised by how much my mental health improved as the amount of sugar in my diet decreased." 

Having long battled with depression, Simon's journey took an unexpected turn after his partner died in August of 2014, sending him spiralling into unhealthy eating habits in attempt to manage debilitating emotions.

“I turned to sugar-infested snacks as a self destruction method. But I knew it wasn’t good for me, physically or mentally,” he says. “The time eventually came for this behaviour to end. Not just for eight weeks, or even one year. When I decided to do the 8-Week Program, I wanted to make a lifestyle change that would stick with me forever.” 

After Simon’s devastating loss forced him to confront his mental health in a new light and seek out healthier coping mechanisms, he found a sense of community with I Quit Sugar and a group of diverse and welcoming people from all walks of life. 

"Even though I did the Program on my own, I felt connected to people from all over the world," Simon shares. 

The community engagement is one of the integral elements of the program – and it’s what helps members stick to their goals and reach success when they’re feeling alone in their addiction. From forums to discussions, the program fosters connection and camaraderie in the battle against sugar addiction and on the path to better health. Why? Because embarking on a journey to overhaul your diet and lifestyle can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with the challenges of breaking free from unhealthy habits. For many, the 8-Week Program offers more than just a roadmap to better health—it provides a lifeline of support and encouragement through its vibrant online community. From day one, participants are welcomed into a supportive network of individuals who share a common goal: to reclaim their health and wellness. Whether you're seeking advice on navigating sugar cravings or celebrating a small victory, the program's forums provide a safe space to connect, share, and learn from one another. 

"I loved the fact that I could share photos of my food with others via Instagram. Photography and writing have been two huge parts of my learning to live with grief and face life as a suicide survivor,” Simon says. “To add food to this made the experience that much better."

Get ready to see more of this in your feed! 

Determined to make lasting changes, Simon committed to the 8-Week Program as a catalyst for transformation. "The Program allowed me to build my confidence in the kitchen," Simon says. Through the guidance and support of the program, he gained the skills and knowledge to navigate the grocery store with ease and experiment with nourishing ingredients.

"I don’t think I’ll ever be fully free of depression," Simon reflects. "But having a diet filled with fresh and nourishing food has helped enormously with the range of the swing I experience. And I’m able to spot the change and act on it faster than I have before." 

The 8-Week Program may have started as a quest for better health, but for Simon, it became a lifeline—a source of hope, resilience, and newfound purpose.

“I'd like to extend a massive “thank you” to everyone who supported me along this journey and who put in a lot of hard work to make this Program happen. It really does change lives for the better.”

Feeling inspired? We’ve put in the hard yards so you can enjoy the benefits of an extensive, wholistic program that covers everything from learning how to manage nutrition and mental health to social situations. When you join us for the 8-Week Program you’ll have exclusive access to expert guidance, nutritional planning and support every step of the way. Take a peek at what’s on offer:

• 8 weeks of meal plans and shopping lists.
• A range of exclusive recipes, including sugar-free desserts, snacks and all the old favourites.
• Community forums to share and discuss your experience.
• Expert support to guide you through each week – from world-renowned chef Sarah Glover to yoga teachers, nutritionists and naturopaths. 

Join us for the next round – don’t wait, JOIN NOW!

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please seek help immediately. In Australia, the crisis hotline is Lifeline, which provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. You can reach Lifeline by calling 13 11 14.