CREDIT: PAUL FEDERICI
Paul Federici brings his music to the London Music Hall stage on October 4.

As he struggled with anxiety and panic disorder, Paul Federici has seen low lows. Now, as a singer, he's soared to new heights.

A social worker, Federici counselled people with mental health issues as he fought his own silent battle. “At one point, my dad had to come and move in with me,” he said. “My nerves were so bad and I had become so depressed that I couldn't be left alone for long periods of time.”

But, like so many people who deal with mental health issues, Federici faked a smile and continued to work, fighting his battle on his own. “At one point, I remember going to work one day, then driving to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Emergency Room that evening unsure if I'd need to be admitted,” he said.

To get through the tough times, Federici wrote music on his acoustic guitar. “Music got me out of that rut and gave me hope,” he said. “[Playing guitar] reminded me to follow my heart and take chances again.”

Federici released his first album, Relative Importance, at the beginning of last year, and took home a Niagara Music Award for Adult Contemporary Artist of the Year for his efforts. This past June, he followed up that album with Now and Then.

Making the change from social worker to musician has made Federici a much happier person. “When it comes to depression and anxiety we think so much about medication first, when often times the lifestyle choices we make have a profound impact on our mental health,” he said.

Federici takes the London Music Club (470 Colborne St.) stage with local musician Chad Price on October 4. Tickets are $10, and the show starts at 9 p.m.

For more information on Federici and his story, go to paulfederici.ca. Check out his music at paulfedericimusic.bandcamp.com.