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Mental health campaigner Jonny Benjamin - who was talked out of jumping off Waterloo Bridge in 2008 - addressed guests at a screening of The Stranger on the Bridge organised by mental health charity Jami at the Charlotte Street Hotel in central London.
The documentary is about Mr Benjamin's search for the man who persuaded him to abandon his suicide attempt.
Answering questions from the audience of young professionals, he explained how the man, Neil Laybourn, had made the difference.
"Neil let me talk. He gave me the space to talk and he was listening. He was full of compassion and I wasn't being judged."
Other questions included how Mr Benjamin had kept his distress to himself; how to recognise a mental illness; and the impact of cuts to local mental-health services.
It is timely that we are starting to discuss these topics
Mr Benjamin also paid tribute to Jami for the help it had given him in his recovery.
Jami chief executive Laurie Rackind said "it was truly wonderful to see a new generation of Jami supporters engaged in conversations about mental health.
"With the national media focus on mental health care and support, it is timely that we are starting to discuss these topics in our own community.
"We're looking forward to seeing more events such as this one over the coming months."