Jonathan Kemp
Author, Speaker & Mental Health Advocate
Sharing lived experience, insight and hope — for anyone navigating mental health or neurodiversity.
Behind every story of recovery lies a journey few ever see. Jonathan Kemp’s path — through bipolar disorder, depression, addiction and dyslexia — has taken him from the Australian Outback and London’s Metropolitan Police to creating SmartWisdom and finding clarity through ongoing recovery.
Today, Jonathan shares his experience with honesty and compassion, offering practical insight to help people navigate mental health, neurodiversity, and life’s challenges with greater understanding and confidence.
The Finding Peace of Mind Walk — 2026
On 1 January 2026, starting in the Shetland Islands, Jonathan will begin a 10-month, 4,200-kilometre walk across the UK and Ireland — a living symbol of the mental health journey, moving from winter’s darkness into summer’s light.
Along the way, he will give talks, share stories, and raise funds for four mental health charities supporting Scotland, England & Wales, Northern Ireland, and Ireland.
Finding Peace of Mind — The Memoir
In Finding Peace of Mind, Jonathan shares his personal journey through bipolar disorder, depression, addiction and dyslexia — and what it really means to ask for help, find clarity, and rebuild a life.
Honest and practical, this memoir goes beyond reflection. It offers insight, encouragement and lived wisdom for anyone navigating mental health or neurodiversity challenges, or supporting someone who is.
Blog
Welcome to my blog — a space for honest reflections on bipolar disorder, depression, addiction and recovery.
Alongside personal essays and lessons learned, I’ll be sharing updates from the Finding Peace of Mind charity walk, as I walk and talk about mental health across the UK and Ireland.
Shop & Free Downloads
Finding Peace of Mind
You can explore the Finding Peace of Mind memoir, free samples, and additional downloadable content here.
Free sample - Author’s Note Is this book for you?
Two additional chapters - available to newsletter subscribers
Newsletter
Sign up for thoughtful reflections, updates from the 2026 walk, and early access to new blog posts, talks and events.
Media & Podcasts
Jonathan shares his lived experience and mental health insights through interviews, podcasts, articles and public talks.
Topics include bipolar disorder, depression, addiction, recovery, neurodiversity and the importance of open, honest conversation.
Diary & Events
Jonathan takes part in book launches, panel discussions, talks, workshops and community events throughout the year, including his UK and Ireland charity walk.
Upcoming events and appearances will be listed here.
Speaking
Drawing on lived experience, emotional intelligence and over 20 years of professional facilitation, Jonathan delivers talks and workshops on:
Mental health and neurodiversity
Resilience and recovery
Leadership and emotional awareness
The power of asking for help
Finding meaning through adversity
His style is open, human and hopeful — blending personal stories with practical insight for workplaces, schools and communities.
Contact
Whether you’re a reader, professional, educator, journalist, or someone navigating your own mental health journey, you’re warmly invited to get in touch.
Enquiries are welcome regarding speaking, workshops, media, podcasts, book orders, or reflections on the memoir and blog. Jonathan aims to respond within 3–5 working days.
Important: If you are in crisis or need urgent support, please contact a healthcare professional or local support service. This site is not monitored for emergency messages.