A GRIEVING mum whose daughter died after struggling with her mental health wants to start a support group as her legacy.

Andi Wilkinson, mother of Kara-Leigh Wilkinson, who died in August at the age of 29-years-old, has spoken about the need to help people struggling with mental health problems.

"Kara-Leigh was someone like you have never met before. She was very unique and a fighter," said Ms Wilkinson.

"If you didn't know her you wouldn't think for a minute that she had mental health issues.

"She spent nights listening to me while she was going through hell herself because she didn't want to be here anymore yet she was still helping others constantly."

Ms Wilkinson said she wants to start a support group for people who have been affected by deaths associated with mental health battles.

She said: "There are so many tools that can be used to help people but it is letting people know that they can reach out when intrusive thoughts start happening and not waiting until they are too lost in the dark.

"One of Kara-Leigh's fears was that people would think she was being a bad mum if she was vocal about her thoughts. 

"We need to stop the stigma so people can speak out. It is really sad that people feel like they cannot say to people that they are not coping."

READ MORE: Tributes paid to mum, 29, whose passion for music was 'infectious'

On Sunday, as part of World Suicide Prevention Day, the charity Every Life Matters is encouraging people to light a candle to remember those lost to suicide, for those living with thoughts of suicide, and to show support for suicide prevention.

Events are being held at 8pm on Sunday September 10 across Cumbria, including at Barrow's Town Hall.

Kara-Leigh’s family and friends will be at the event with a banner made with the support of the Barrow Underground Music Scene (BUMS), where she shared her love for music and arts.

Ms Wilkinson said: "Kara-Leigh was so well known in the town. Let's make a difference because no mother should ever experience this pain.

"She had the biggest smile and she would light up the room. Kara-Leigh didn't make friends. She built families."

If you need help, you can call The Samaritans' free 24-hour helpline on 116 123.

You can also contact the SOBS support group www.uksobs.org or call 0300 111 5065.