Depression and anxiety

[CropleyWasGod]

Talking of blogs, here is the transcript of a talk I gave last week at a seminar:-

13837

[MSK]

Talking of blogs, here is the transcript of a talk I gave last week at a seminar:-

13837Excellent article CWG ..thanks for sharing, many of those things I can relate to ..:agree:

[Phil D. Rolls]

On the subject, my Blog is now a Mental Health one which details some of my experiences with medication, therapy and self harm. Some may find it useful.

I've read your blog, I'd advise others to avoid it. Basically, the only thing I can urge you to do is take responsibility for your own life, and stop laying things like that onto other people. Many who come onto this thread will be vulnerable, and have a right to be protected from your threats.

I wondered why it was that you didn't have the IT skills to Google information about being sectioned, yet you have the skills to write a blog. I don't now.

It's not a judgement but IMO this is not the place for you to be sharing, or hinting at, your thoughts about self deliverance. The majority of people who come on here are not skilled at dealing with people like you, and would very likely become alarmed by it.

I'm not an admin here, but I've shared my concerns about you with them. Hope you appreciate this is for your own good, but more importantly when you start musing on things like that in public then other people need protected to.

You have a choice what you right. They have no choice over whether they read it if they follow your links. There are other forums which, I'm sure, are more appropriate.

[Stranraer]

The blog has been taken down. The above poster has had a problem with me for a while now and I'm not wanting to go into why. Part of the reason I posted about my blog was because I want to see a great change in the way the NHS in Scotland treats people with mental illness.

My blog has many followers from England and America in particular who take some great strength from it but I'll take it down from this site.

It certainly wasn't my intention to upset, or encourage anyone to do something harmful.

[Phil D. Rolls]

The blog has been taken down. The above poster has had a problem with me for a while now and I'm not wanting to go into why. Part of the reason I posted about my blog was because I want to see a great change in the way the NHS in Scotland treats people with mental illness.

My blog has many followers from England and America in particular who take some great strength from it but I'll take it down from this site.

It certainly wasn't my intention to upset, or encourage anyone to do something harmful.

Well you did cause upset, and IMO it was potentially harmful as well. You can help yourself immensly by accepting that and considering the feelings of others when you link them to external sites.

I don't have a problem with you, and you have never mentioned this before. In fact, about four posts back when I was helping you out with your queries about the Mental Health Act, you said thanks. Yet when I challenge you about something I consider inappropriate like your blog, all of a sudden I am on your back. What does that tell us about Borderline Personality Disorder?

As I said in the PM posting hints about the date you are thinking of killing yourself is going to be upsetting for other people. That's the first thing that people would have seen when arriving at the blog. A whole page focussed on you.

I work in mental health, and i found it disturbing. Goodness knows what somebody with no real knowledge of how to deal with suicide or parasuicide would react. You really need to consider that before sharing your feelings with others.

If you are struggling with your condition as much as you suggest you are, do you really think you are the best person to be offering help to others at the moment?

Anybody who has thoughts of self harm, might find the following sites useful:

http://breathingspace.scot/?gclid=CI-PgIiaxcICFUGx2wod8SgAjA

http://www.samh.org.uk/

[MSK]

Guys, we really need to try keep this thread on topic, suicidal thoughts are part & parcel of low mood/depression & folk should be encouraged, should they wish, to express their feelings. However, we could really do without it being placed on a public forum or in links to blogs. It doesn't sit well with me & I know others feel the same. I feel as folk have trusted others by sharing their experiences of mental health issues on here we should respect those of whom have had had the courage to share them.

[Phil D. Rolls]

Guys, we really need to try keep this thread on topic, suicidal thoughts are part & parcel of low mood/depression & folk should be encouraged, should they wish, to express their feelings. However, we could really do without it being placed on a public forum or in links to blogs. It doesn't sit well with me & I know others feel the same. I feel as folk have trusted others by sharing their experiences of mental health issues on here we should respect those of whom have had had the courage to share them.

Would there be any mileage in putting up a sticky with emergency contact numbers for people experiencing overwhelming thoughts? I think it would be helpful if people were directed to dedicated, professionally run resources.

[MSK]

Would there be any mileage in putting up a sticky with emergency contact numbers for people experiencing overwhelming thoughts? I think it would be helpful if people were directed to dedicated, professionally run resources.No, we are a football forum mate, first & foremost ..this thread in particular is in a sub forum where people can share their experiences with others of whom have had similar ...as harsh as it may sound, we are not the Samaritans & therefore we shouldn't be putting sticky threads up.

However I dont have an issue if folk link in threads.

[Phil D. Rolls]

No, we are a football forum mate, first & foremost ..this thread in particular is in a sub forum where people can share their experiences with others of whom have had similar ...as harsh as it may sound, we are not the Samaritans & therefore we shouldn't be putting sticky threads up.

However I dont have an issue if folk link in threads.

No problem.

[stu in nottingham]

Well you did cause upset, and IMO it was potentially harmful as well. You can help yourself immensly by accepting that and considering the feelings of others when you link them to external sites.

I don't have a problem with you, and you have never mentioned this before. In fact, about four posts back when I was helping you out with your queries about the Mental Health Act, you said thanks. Yet when I challenge you about something I consider inappropriate like your blog, all of a sudden I am on your back. What does that tell us about Borderline Personality Disorder?

As I said in the PM posting hints about the date you are thinking of killing yourself is going to be upsetting for other people. That's the first thing that people would have seen when arriving at the blog. A whole page focussed on you.

I work in mental health, and i found it disturbing. Goodness knows what somebody with no real knowledge of how to deal with suicide or parasuicide would react. You really need to consider that before sharing your feelings with others.

If you are struggling with your condition as much as you suggest you are, do you really think you are the best person to be offering help to others at the moment?

Anybody who has thoughts of self harm, might find the following sites useful:

http://breathingspace.scot/?gclid=CI-PgIiaxcICFUGx2wod8SgAjA

http://www.samh.org.uk/


Guys, we really need to try keep this thread on topic, suicidal thoughts are part & parcel of low mood/depression & folk should be encouraged, should they wish, to express their feelings. However, we could really do without it being placed on a public forum or in links to blogs. It doesn't sit well with me & I know others feel the same. I feel as folk have trusted others by sharing their experiences of mental health issues on here we should respect those of whom have had had the courage to share them.

Indeed (both posts). It's obviously a complicated issue for me with my own recent experience dealing with the fallout of the suicide of my partner but it is certainly not an issue to be trifled with or bandied around. Talk about it by all means, that is to be encouraged but it has to be done with extreme responsibility and a consideration as to how that dialogue may affect others.

There are no certainties around this subject and as I say, the effects of it's tentacles can be incredibly far-reaching and complex, almost beyond understanding. I have come to realise that.

[MSK]

Indeed (both posts). It's obviously a complicated issue for me with my own recent experience dealing with the fallout of the suicide of my partner but it is certainly not an issue to be trifled with or bandied around. Talk about it by all means, that is to be encouraged but it has to be done with extreme responsibly and a consideration as to how that dialogue may affect others.

There are no certainties around this subject and as I say, the effects of it's tentacles can be incredibly far-reaching and complex, almost beyond understanding. I have come to understand that.Absolutley Stu ..yourself most recently lost a loved one, as much as she shared with yourself & others there was something else eating away inside. No-one will ever know what that was but she made a tragic & sad decision, a decision that would impact on you & her family for the rest of your lives.

My Uncle done the same, a few days before Christmas. why ..?...no-one knows ..only he.

Some stuff posted on this forum is brilliant, to the extent it assures folk suffering from depression that they are not alone, everyone have shared their experiences & a few have offered support, be it via private mail or via links. However, to give a link, time & date of your intended "departure" on this very forum has to be discouraged. We can offer advice, openly. but we cant cure.

[stu in nottingham]

Absolutley Stu ..yourself most recently lost a loved one, as much as she shared with yourself & others there was something else eating away inside. No-one will ever know what that was but she made a tragic & sad decision, a decision that would impact on you & her family for the rest of your lives.

My Uncle done the same, a few days before Christmas. why ..?...no-one knows ..only he.

Some stuff posted on this forum is brilliant, to the extent it assures folk suffering from depression that they are not alone, everyone have shared their experiences & a few have offered support, be it via private mail or via links. However, to give a link, time & date of your intended "departure" on this very forum has to be discouraged. We can offer advice, openly. but we cant cure.

Would echo what you say in reference to this thread, K. A football forum generally speaking but this long running discussion is, dare I say, the most important one that has ever appeared on hibs.net. Along the way it may keep one or two people alive and considering the impact that decision has on others also, there can be nothing more vital or relevant.

The impact I can only describe as permanent scarring on one's life. One can find a way to live with it, one indeed must, but it is something irretrievable that will never 'go away' ultimately. I could perhaps write a small book on it at this stage.

Anything that can avert that from happening to others, such as the frank and meaningful discussion and exchange of information and views as on the majority of this thread I would heartily commend so well done all.

[Phil D. Rolls]

Thanks for the input Stu and HH.

My concerns on the subject stem from an incident on here earlier this year. I got a PM from another poster expressing concern over someone on here's mental state.

I got the impression that person had been threatening suicide, and that the person who'd written to me was frantic with worry. It raised the question about how to deal with the situation.

The fact that we know nothing about each other is a double edged sword. It helps us to be more open about things we'd otherwise be shy about talking about.

On the other hand, when we get situations where someone hints at specific plans, it leaves us in a vulnerable position. We can't do anything to help like get in touch with their GPS, or the local police - yet find ourselves worrying about what will happen.

To an extent, we have to have some boundaries - because the message board is not set up as a suicide prevention site. Obviously it's a very grey area, but the general advice I'd give people is not to get too involved in other peoples problems.

Sadly there are people who will exploit general chat to focus the discussion on themselves and their issues. Such people are capable of using the threat of suicide to draw others into their control and to try and help them sort their issues.

Moderators of self help groups often struggle to maintain the balance between allowing people to share their problems, and preventing them dominating the discussion.

For that reason, I'd urge anybody with concerns about suicide to direct the individual to appropriate places like NHS24, SAMH, and Breathing Space, and leave it there. If they continue to pester you make it clear that you are not responsible for what happens to them.

I think it would also be good etiquette for people to consider the impact of what you they need to discuss, and whether this is the best site to discuss it.

I always find this thread touching, and envigorating, as HH says though first and foremost its a football forum, and there has to be a limit to how far things can go. I suppose a comparable topic might be a thread about our sex lives - being British we seem to be far better at setting appropriate boundaries on that subject.

The last thing I want to do is to discourage people from talking about Depression. I just think we have to be careful how far we take it.

[Stranraer]

I just wanted to take the time to post an apology on this thread. I've been very selfish in some of my posts and I certainly didn't intend to upset anyone. I'm going through it very badly just now but not only must I think of others feelings, I must also respect that this is at the end of the day a football forum. I sincerely apologise to those offended and to the user who I insulted, I was completely out of order.

<3Mozza

[wpj]

I just wanted to take the time to post an apology on this thread. I've been very selfish in some of my posts and I certainly didn't intend to upset anyone. I'm going through it very badly just now but not only must I think of others feelings, I must also respect that this is at the end of the day a football forum. I sincerely apologise to those offended and to the user who I insulted, I was completely out of order.

<3Mozza

Hope things are ok with you and you have some support available to you

[Mikey09]

I just wanted to take the time to post an apology on this thread. I've been very selfish in some of my posts and I certainly didn't intend to upset anyone. I'm going through it very badly just now but not only must I think of others feelings, I must also respect that this is at the end of the day a football forum. I sincerely apologise to those offended and to the user who I insulted, I was completely out of order.

<3Mozza


Good on you mate... If you feel you've offended anyone, although I don't think you have, then it takes bollocks to apologise. As someone else posted, this time of year is weird. Certainly for me. From Halloween onwards my mental state and emotions take a battering. Bipolar is a bitch!! I can feel on top of the world one minute then WALLOP!! That brutal feeling in my stomach hits me and I just want to lock myself away from everyone until it passes. However, I have learned over time that's the worst thing I can do. I try like **** to stick to my wee plan as I have complete faith that it works, for me that is. I also have a wife who helps me so much. When I'm getting too high she lets me know, but she also helps me with the lows.... We all need help with this and for me that's the key. It's not sympathy or feeling sorry for me as that can make people feel like a victim. It's an understanding of my mental health. I know I have to live with this for the rest of my days and accept it. I've stopped asking myself "why me?" Is it hard to put these things in place to get through each day? Truthfully yeah. Is it worth it?? Absolutely. Take care pal..... :aok:

[Stranraer]

Good on you mate... If you feel you've offended anyone, although I don't think you have, then it takes bollocks to apologise. As someone else posted, this time of year is weird. Certainly for me. From Halloween onwards my mental state and emotions take a battering. Bipolar is a bitch!! I can feel on top of the world one minute then WALLOP!! That brutal feeling in my stomach hits me and I just want to lock myself away from everyone until it passes. However, I have learned over time that's the worst thing I can do. I try like **** to stick to my wee plan as I have complete faith that it works, for me that is. I also have a wife who helps me so much. When I'm getting too high she lets me know, but she also helps me with the lows.... We all need help with this and for me that's the key. It's not sympathy or feeling sorry for me as that can make people feel like a victim. It's an understanding of my mental health. I know I have to live with this for the rest of my days and accept it. I've stopped asking myself "why me?" Is it hard to put these things in place to get through each day? Truthfully yeah. Is it worth it?? Absolutely. Take care pal..... :aok:

Thank you both, much appreciated. Went out for the first time in a good while last night and made of new friends so hopefully the confidence is building up again.

[hibsbollah]

Its a hard time of year for a lot of people. I thought this excellent thread deserves a bump.

[Pretty Boy]

Its a hard time of year for a lot of people. I thought this excellent thread deserves a bump.

Best piece of advice I can give anyone struggling with their mental health at Christmas is don't get caught up in the hype of having to have the 'perfect Christmas'. If you had flu or broke you arm you wouldn't give a second thought to having a quieter Christmas so why should a mental health issue be different?

I've been lucky in that I've had the best part of 2 years of feeling good but I still find Christmas a bit overwhelming at times. I always try to find 15 minutes here and there just to gather my thoughts and get away from all the colour, noise etc.

[CropleyWasGod]

Best piece of advice I can give anyone struggling with their mental health at Christmas is don't get caught up in the hype of having to have the 'perfect Christmas'. If you had flu or broke you arm you wouldn't give a second thought to having a quieter Christmas so why should a mental health issue be different?

I've been lucky in that I've had the best part of 2 years of feeling good but I still find Christmas a bit overwhelming at times. I always try to find 15 minutes here and there just to gather my thoughts and get away from all the colour, noise etc.

Yep, the pressure is ridiculous sometimes. It's one of my pet theories that "advertising land" is a major contributor to depression. In that mythical country, everything is perfect, as long as you shop at Sainsbury's, buy a Dyson, eat Ferrero Rocher and give your cat Whiskas.

Add to that the assumption that "everyone else is having a better time than me", and it's easy to see why it can feel *****.

Gathering your thoughts.... yep, I'd go for that. I practice meditation. It doesn't solve life's problems, but it sure as hell gives me a better balance to deal with them.

Oh, and Happy Solstice everyone...the light is on its way back :)

[hibsbollah]

Best piece of advice I can give anyone struggling with their mental health at Christmas is don't get caught up in the hype of having to have the 'perfect Christmas'. If you had flu or broke you arm you wouldn't give a second thought to having a quieter Christmas so why should a mental health issue be different?

I've been lucky in that I've had the best part of 2 years of feeling good but I still find Christmas a bit overwhelming at times. I always try to find 15 minutes here and there just to gather my thoughts and get away from all the colour, noise etc.

A weird thing for me is ive had a tough December and been counting the days for a long holiday with my family round me and more time spent in the house. Two days in and im missing the structure of work and feeling like im cooped up!

Peculiar.

[CropleyWasGod]

A weird thing for me is ive had a tough December and been counting the days for a long holiday with my family round me and more time spent in the house. Two days in and im missing the structure of work and feeling like im cooped up!

Peculiar.

... and the minute you get back to work, you'll wish you were off again :greengrin

It's a familiar thing, that we want what we don't have. As if "that" will provide happiness.

The ability to be content with what we have is a very difficult thing to develop..

[lord bunberry]

Best piece of advice I can give anyone struggling with their mental health at Christmas is don't get caught up in the hype of having to have the 'perfect Christmas'. If you had flu or broke you arm you wouldn't give a second thought to having a quieter Christmas so why should a mental health issue be different?

I've been lucky in that I've had the best part of 2 years of feeling good but I still find Christmas a bit overwhelming at times. I always try to find 15 minutes here and there just to gather my thoughts and get away from all the colour, noise etc.

The problem with that is that with a broken arm its a visible problem that others can see and cut you some slack. I'm finding it pretty difficult to get into the Christmas spirit, but I've not finished up for the holidays yet. I know I will be fine as seeing my daughter so excited and being part of that will be the best pick me up I could ask for.

[stu in nottingham]

This time of year can provide a lot of difficulties. I read a Tweet with four simple helpful points yesterday and agreed with it. It was aimed at suicide survivors but I think it's good general advice, especially for those with depression and other mental health issues:

Don't take too much on.

Avoid being overwhelmed.

Limit your activities to those which you are interested in and able to do.

It is okay to say no.

Personally, i couldn't stomach the thought of Christmas and New Year this year. I've lost too much and my life has been stood on it's head and I don't care to celebrate. Maybe that will come back one day. It's only when you're practising avoidance of it that you realise the subtle and continual pressures to join in, especially commercial ones. For some reason one of the worst things for me was trying to do my weekly grocery shop in Sainsbury's and having to listen to insistent piped Christmas songs. I really couldn't wait to get out of the bloody place to be honest as it was making me perfectly miserable and acutely reminding me of my loss. I finished my shopping yesterday and won't be back until the New Year. It's all a bit cynical when you think about how many people have a rough time in the festive season.

I've perhaps surprised a couple of people by declining to meet and do the Christmas thing. I've no wish to upset anyone and in some ways its a hard thing to do but I have no regrets. At a very testing time I'm going to do everything in my power to protect myself. I am going to suggest to others that they look after themselves as much as possible in the same way.

Good luck and peace to all.

[Stranraer]

If anyone could let Phil D. Rolls know of my sincere apology of selfishness and manipulation I would appreciate it, I think I'm (quite rightly) on his ignore list.

<3Mozza

[Sylar]

This is a horrible time of the year at the best of times for both my family and in-laws but this year has an added dimension of problem to it.

A few years ago, we lost one of my grandparents on Christmas Eve - turns out that Christmas Eve is also one of my parents birthdays and it was their mum who died that day. Fast forward a couple of years more and my father in law lost his dad at the onset of December, also on his birthday...

At a time of year that's fraught with reminders of who isn't there, particularly on sentimental days such as birthday's, it's tough. Add into that, one of my immediate family has recently started counselling as they feel absolutely overwhelmed and feel totally down, withdrawn and quiet, speaking openly (which is a positive in its own right) about racing, cycling thoughts and a total lack of feeling. Spending time with said family member for the first time in a long while has been a bit of a haunting experience since coming back home for Christmas, particularly given my own personal battle with anxiety! One aspect of my own struggles I thought I had left behind was a prevalence of health related anxiety. However, the past few days I've had a pressure around my head, headache, relentless twitching in various parts of my body and a general sensation of imbalance and unsteadiness and my mind has been racing to some very dark places as to what it could be...

I like to think of myself as an intelligent, well-educated guy who 'should know better' but health anxiety is such an irrational and powerful problem that amplifies itself over time.

I often feel a bit overwhelmed reading this thread, feeling that my own battle is totally inconsequential to some of the particularly darkened **** that some of you deal with on a daily basis but I've been struggling a wee bit lately and being surrounded by a somewhat dark aura lately prompted me to post!

[s.a.m]

This time of year can provide a lot of difficulties. I read a Tweet with four simple helpful points yesterday and agreed with it. It was aimed at suicide survivors but I think it's good general advice, especially for those with depression and other mental health issues:

Don't take too much on.

Avoid being overwhelmed.

Limit your activities to those which you are interested in and able to do.

It is okay to say no.

Personally, i couldn't stomach the thought of Christmas and New Year this year. I've lost too much and my life has been stood on it's head and I don't care to celebrate. Maybe that will come back one day. It's only when you're practising avoidance of it that you realise the subtle and continual pressures to join in, especially commercial ones. For some reason one of the worst things for me was trying to do my weekly grocery shop in Sainsbury's and having to listen to insistent piped Christmas songs. I really couldn't wait to get out of the bloody place to be honest as it was making me perfectly miserable and acutely reminding me of my loss. I finished my shopping yesterday and won't be back until the New Year. It's all a bit cynical when you think about how many people have a rough time in the festive season.

I've perhaps surprised a couple of people by declining to meet and do the Christmas thing. I've no wish to upset anyone and in some ways its a hard thing to do but I have no regrets. At a very testing time I'm going to do everything in my power to protect myself. I am going to suggest to others that they look after themselves as much as possible in the same way.

Good luck and peace to all.

Jings Stu...don't know what to say other than you're in my thoughts. And it's useful to be reminded at this time of the year that it brings difficulty to many. Best wishes to you and Sue's son and daughter at what must be a most difficult time. Best wishes to others on this thread too.

[stu in nottingham]

Jings Stu...don't know what to say other than you're in my thoughts. And it's useful to be reminded at this time of the year that it brings difficulty to many. Best wishes to you and Sue's son and daughter at what must be a most difficult time. Best wishes to others on this thread too.

Cheers S.A.M and thanks for the kind thoughts. I just wanted to come on here and add my support of others because it's important to know others are going through this stuff as well. As others have alluded to, I want to reiterate the message that 'keeping up appearances' for Christmas when you're having a bad time is not a necessity nor obligatory. I keenly feel the real significance of Christmas being a Catholic with a faith but even having said that I want to maintain the message that it's just another day on the calendar and it's important to protect oneself from the difficult feelings that wash over you at this time. Sometimes it a 'learn as you go' as it appears to be with me right now.

Keep surviving. When you're on your knees, get up again and proceed slowly and with care. We are charged with looking after ourselves. That is the important thing even at this special time of year.

[stu in nottingham]

I often feel a bit overwhelmed reading this thread, feeling that my own battle is totally inconsequential to some of the particularly darkened **** that some of you deal with on a daily basis but I've been struggling a wee bit lately and being surrounded by a somewhat dark aura lately prompted me to post!

Don't feel overwhelmed, Sylar. Your own issues with this time are as valid anyone else's on here. Keep contributing because we can all learn from each other here. Good luck and peace to you.

[Pete]

My problem with cutting down my hours is that I will earn less money. I'm self employed as a taxi driver and I bought my own cab 4 years ago. I've been working long hours for the 4 years to pay for the finance that I took out. I'm not working to have extra money, it's just to cover the bills. I've got less than a year to go before the finance is all paid off and I'll be cutting my hours down dramatically when that happens, I'm looking at ways I can change things around a bit in the mean time.

I don't know your full situation but buying a cab or cab/plate is one hell of a pressure.

Every night you are basically going into an uncertain workplace with "earn £X, or else" in your head from the very start and you can only relax when you have achieved that target. Relax until the next shift that is.

Seven or even six nights constantly working with that nagging pressure isn't healthy. You have to have some sort of release.

[lord bunberry]

I don't know your full situation but buying a cab or cab/plate is one hell of a pressure.

Every night you are basically going into an uncertain workplace with "earn £X, or else" in your head from the very start and you can only relax when you have achieved that target. Relax until the next shift that is.

Seven or even six nights constantly working with that nagging pressure isn't healthy. You have to have some sort of release.

That's pretty much how it's been for 4 years now and I've got to the stage were I can't do it anymore. I'm actually going to sell my position with City and just work the street(hopefully with the airport permit) that will give me a little breathing space, I'll also just work the cab myself which will mean I can pick and choose my hours a bit more.
Reading this thread is also really helpful, it's quite inspiring reading how others are coping with situations which are probably much worse than mine.

[lord bunberry]

A weird thing for me is ive had a tough December and been counting the days for a long holiday with my family round me and more time spent in the house. Two days in and im missing the structure of work and feeling like im cooped up!

Peculiar.

I often get like that. I think its the routine change that does it for me. The best thing to do for me is get out of the house and do as much as possible. I'm actually going to get a dog, it will give me a reason to get outdoors more, and they're always happy to see you when you come home( unlike her indoors :greengrin)

[hibsbollah]

I often get like that. I think its the routine change that does it for me. The best thing to do for me is get out of the house and do as much as possible. I'm actually going to get a dog, it will give me a reason to get outdoors more, and they're always happy to see you when you come home( unlike her indoors :greengrin)

Agreed. :agree: Blowing away the cobwebs outside is a good thing (as long as it doesn't incorporate Christmas shopping arghhh). I enjoy running which is great if you have that restless feeling. But I think a lot of people get a dog for the same reasons as you.

[lord bunberry]

Agreed. :agree: Blowing away the cobwebs outside is a good thing (as long as it doesn't incorporate Christmas shopping arghhh). I enjoy running which is great if you have that restless feeling. But I think a lot of people get a dog for the same reasons as you.

I'm just off to do the last of my Christmas shopping, I've been putting it off for long enough and I'm running out of time :greengrin

[lord bunberry]

I've posted on this thread before but not in a while, just wanted to share some of my thoughts.

When I was in my mid/late teens I struggled a lot with depression and anxiety. I have been feeling absolutely great for the past few years however, met a great group of friends, was enjoying life more than I ever had. Then a few months ago it all came back and now it feels worse than it ever has before. I don't know if it's a coincidence or not but it started around the same time I started my new job. The thing is it is a job I studied for and worked hard for but now that I've got it I think I've realised it's not what I want at all, and I hate what I am doing. Every day I dread going in and I lie awake thinking about it at night. There's been occasions when I've been in and out of the office on jobs during the day and I've burst into tears in my car. I know the "easy" solution is to leave, but I just feel like such a failure as I thought this was what I was going to do and now I know I don't want to or can't and I have no idea what else I am going to do instead. I find my thoughts going to dark places like hoping I'll be in a car crash rather than end up in the office.

The thing I also worry about is even if I do leave the job, what if it doesn't stop? What if it's not the job, but the way I am feeling is making it seem like it is?

I know there's no easy answer but just wanted to get some of that out there.

Is there any possibility that you could take a bit of time off your work? Sometimes I find it easier to think about things when(even temporarily) I can get away from it all for a while. Even if you still decide the jobs not for you it might help you think of an alternative strategy that will make you happier. As for those darker thoughts you're having I also find myself thinking similar. I put it down to looking for a way out of whatever is making you feel the way you are, not necessarily that you wish you involved in a car crash.
It's really easy for others to say but it's so true, money isn't everything, being happy is much more important.
Good luck and remember it helps to talk about things, even if it's on this thread.

[Stranraer]

Thinking of many at this time of the year, I've sent a couple of PM's but I can't imagine how difficult it must be.

With thanks to a new GP and 150mg of Zoloft and 600mg of Seroquel I am truly on the road to recovery.

[Mikey09]

Thinking of many at this time of the year, I've sent a couple of PM's but I can't imagine how difficult it must be.

With thanks to a new GP and 150mg of Zoloft and 600mg of Seroquel I am truly on the road to recovery.


Good lad.... Remember.. It's hard work for all us looney's to live day to day, but it's worth the effort... Stick in :aok:

[Stranraer]

I've posted on this thread before but not in a while, just wanted to share some of my thoughts.

When I was in my mid/late teens I struggled a lot with depression and anxiety. I have been feeling absolutely great for the past few years however, met a great group of friends, was enjoying life more than I ever had. Then a few months ago it all came back and now it feels worse than it ever has before. I don't know if it's a coincidence or not but it started around the same time I started my new job. The thing is it is a job I studied for and worked hard for but now that I've got it I think I've realised it's not what I want at all, and I hate what I am doing. Every day I dread going in and I lie awake thinking about it at night. There's been occasions when I've been in and out of the office on jobs during the day and I've burst into tears in my car. I know the "easy" solution is to leave, but I just feel like such a failure as I thought this was what I was going to do and now I know I don't want to or can't and I have no idea what else I am going to do instead. I find my thoughts going to dark places like hoping I'll be in a car crash rather than end up in the office.

The thing I also worry about is even if I do leave the job, what if it doesn't stop? What if it's not the job, but the way I am feeling is making it seem like it is?

I know there's no easy answer but just wanted to get some of that out there.

Would you be able to take some time off or would you be willing to go and see your GP are would you rather not go down that root? When the mind travels to these dark places I think you must seek help. I hope you feel better and find the support you need. When I go back to the city where I studied I come back a wreck although I seem to enjoy it at the time, it's very odd.

[lord bunberry]

Thanks to the people who replied. I've finally worked up the courage to make an appointment with my GP next Monday, so will see how that goes. I think a part of me has always been worried I won't be taken seriously, I don't really know what to expect.

Well done you've taken the most important and hardest step.

[Mikey09]

Thanks to the people who replied. I've finally worked up the courage to make an appointment with my GP next Monday, so will see how that goes. I think a part of me has always been worried I won't be taken seriously, I don't really know what to expect.


In my humble opinion be honest with your GP mate. Don't hold anything back however anxious or embarrassed you feel. Get all your cards on the table and take it from there. Reading your previous post you seem to know where the problem lies re what is making you feel like ****. You're only 24 and have years ahead of you. If your work is making you feel like this and making you have these awful thoughts then there are so many avenues and opportunities to re train for something else. Life's to short to be miserable in our work place. I was so unhappy in the Police so went back to what I did before.... Lifeguarding and teaching kids and adults to swim.... I'm on half the salary I was on as a cop but I'm a million times happier. Let us know how you get on.....

[Stranraer]

Thanks to the people who replied. I've finally worked up the courage to make an appointment with my GP next Monday, so will see how that goes. I think a part of me has always been worried I won't be taken seriously, I don't really know what to expect.

I hope it goes okay, there is always that worry, especially among men. Good on you :aok:

[Stranraer]

I was clearing out my bookcase and came across a book by David D. Burns MD called "The Feeling Good Handbook" - it explains various self help techniques to overcome anxiety.

If anyone thinks they might find it helpful feel free to message me - I don't want anything for it, I was going to hand it into the Mental health charity shop anyway.

[Sweep]

I posted in this thread a long while back about my anxiety. I had been suffering severe anxiety for 2 years with no positive end in site. I decided to try hypnotherapy and got in touch with a therapist. It's the best thing I could have done as far as I'm concerned.

Using EFT tapping therapy (Google it) she managed to lift me out of the darkest of places, I suffered 10+ panic/anxiety attacks relating to health every day. I couldn't sleep and my work suffered so much I was demoted from my position. She helped me " find my mojo" again.

Now a year later I've lost 2 stone, joined a gym and enrolled on the hibs ffit course. I still suffer little anxiety attacks, but have learned how to deal with them. I don't know if it's ok to post a contact number for the practitioner so if anyone wants to pm me I'll happily recommend it to them.

[CropleyWasGod]

I posted in this thread a long while back about my anxiety. I had been suffering severe anxiety for 2 years with no positive end in site. I decided to try hypnotherapy and got in touch with a therapist. It's the best thing I could have done as far as I'm concerned.

Using EFT tapping therapy (Google it) she managed to lift me out of the darkest of places, I suffered 10+ panic/anxiety attacks relating to health every day. I couldn't sleep and my work suffered so much I was demoted from my position. She helped me " find my mojo" again.

Now a year later I've lost 2 stone, joined a gym and enrolled on the hibs ffit course. I still suffer little anxiety attacks, but have learned how to deal with them. I don't know if it's ok to post a contact number for the practitioner so if anyone wants to pm me I'll happily recommend it to them.
Good to hear that.

I dabbled with EFT some years ago. It had an immediate, but short term effect. In the longer term, it didn't work for me.

I know, though, that it has been successful in many ways for many people.

[emoji106]

[Phil D. Rolls]

One way I know I'm going down is when I start to post excessively on here, and get into arguments where I go OTT in criticising others.

Towards the end of last year, I picked up on the fact I felt constantly angry. Things didn't go too well over Christmas, but having lived with Depression long enough, I was able to spot that it was me that was the problem instead of everyone else. To be honest the thoughts I was having about other people were so off the mark, they were bordering on hallucinogenic.

Went to see my GP as soon as I could after new year. Held my hands up, and admitted I wasn't coping, and that I could sink further.

She gave me Paroxetine, and it is doing the job. I am seeing much more humour than I used to, and being more balanced when negative things happen.

The lessons are: never be frightened to admit when you are going backwards - Depression is always there, look for patterns in your behaviour that are repeating themselves; if you want to get better, medication can work for you; see your recovery as a set of waves breaking on the shore, each one goes forwards then back, but each one goes further forward and less back than the previous one did.

[Stranraer]

I've also been guilty of posting stupid comments and annoying others not only on here but in life as well. Having 4 "labels" is annoying and my GP says I should forget them, concentrate on what makes me happy... like watching the Hibees more recently.

One thing that does get me down is thinking of the amount of meds I've been on for a 23 year old, I'm terrified at the thought of coming off 600 mg of Seroquel.

[andrew70]

One way I know I'm going down is when I start to post excessively on here, and get into arguments where I go OTT in criticising others.

Towards the end of last year, I picked up on the fact I felt constantly angry. Things didn't go too well over Christmas, but having lived with Depression long enough, I was able to spot that it was me that was the problem instead of everyone else. To be honest the thoughts I was having about other people were so off the mark, they were bordering on hallucinogenic.

Went to see my GP as soon as I could after new year. Held my hands up, and admitted I wasn't coping, and that I could sink further.

She gave me Paroxetine, and it is doing the job. I am seeing much more humour than I used to, and being more balanced when negative things happen.

The lessons are: never be frightened to admit when you are going backwards - Depression is always there, look for patterns in your behaviour that are repeating themselves; if you want to get better, medication can work for you; see your recovery as a set of waves breaking on the shore, each one goes forwards then back, but each one goes further forward and less back than the previous one did.

I've not posted on this thread before but you may have read my article on depression and football etc that I posted on the site previously.

Anyway I keep myself to myself a lot more than I have ever done. It's easier.

I note that you say "Depression is always there" how very true. It's like a constant drain on my life both physically and mentally.

I don't open up to many people, I do get angry though. Especially with my parents, I feel bad but other times I feel like they have done nothing to help me through this.

I am back at work after six months off but I am so tired and I honestly just want to cry all the time.

I feel so lonely yet I feel like I am becoming more of a loner, if you get what I mean?

It doesn't matter what I do, everything just feels so hard. One step forward, seven back and repeat.

[Mikey09]

I've not posted on this thread before but you may have read my article on depression and football etc that I posted on the site previously.

Anyway I keep myself to myself a lot more than I have ever done. It's easier.

I note that you say "Depression is always there" how very true. It's like a constant drain on my life both physically and mentally.

I don't open up to many people, I do get angry though. Especially with my parents, I feel bad but other times I feel like they have done nothing to help me through this.

I am back at work after six months off but I am so tired and I honestly just want to cry all the time.

I feel so lonely yet I feel like I am becoming more of a loner, if you get what I mean?

It doesn't matter what I do, everything just feels so hard. One step forward, seven back and repeat.


This is what I used to do Andrew. Through years of going un diagnosed with bi polar disorder I would keep everything I was feeling to myself which in turn made what I highlighted become worse. It's a cycle I had to break. If there is someone you can talk to then please do so.... It gives you a sounding board to tell them how you feel and what you're going through. Even posting on this thread is a start. There will be a lot of people on here who have gone/going through the same thing so feel free to ask questions here. There are good people on this forum. Stick in pal....

[andrew70]

This is what I used to do Andrew. Through years of going un diagnosed with bi polar disorder I would keep everything I was feeling to myself which in turn made what I highlighted become worse. It's a cycle I had to break. If there is someone you can talk to then please do so.... It gives you a sounding board to tell them how you feel and what you're going through. Even posting on this thread is a start. There will be a lot of people on here who have gone/going through the same thing so feel free to ask questions here. There are good people on this forum. Stick in pal....

It's the hopelessness I am really struggling with right now.

I got myself in to a position where I could get back to my work but after work I am always so tired even going to a game at the weekend is hard work.

I feel hopeless in the respect of no matter what I do nothing gets 'much better' I figure that coz of this I will never be happy.

I would give my left arm to lead a 'normal' life...hell I can't even remember the last time I smiled properly.

So I keep myself to myself to avoid bringing others down. I can't face going out for a pint, I don't want to have conversations about everyday life with my mates, people more often than not annoy me for no apparent reason.

It's a catch twenty-two situation, I feel like I will always be alone coz I have no confidence to go out and meet new people etc.

[Mr White]

It's the hopelessness I am really struggling with right now.

I got myself in to a position where I could get back to my work but after work I am always so tired even going to a game at the weekend is hard work.

I feel hopeless in the respect of no matter what I do nothing gets 'much better' I figure that coz of this I will never be happy.

I would give my left arm to lead a 'normal' life...hell I can't even remember the last time I smiled properly.

So I keep myself to myself to avoid bringing others down. I can't face going out for a pint, I don't want to have conversations about everyday life with my mates, people more often than not annoy me for no apparent reason.

It's a catch twenty-two situation, I feel like I will always be alone coz I have no confidence to go out and meet new people etc.
Do you do any physical exercise Andrew? I know it would be hard at first to start (if you don't already) but after a while I'm sure it would help your energy levels and to fight the lethargy and apathy that depression can cause.

I went through some difficult times in my late teens and into my early 20's and looking back it was my taking up an active job, playing 5 aside football again after years off and then eventually getting into snowboarding and travelling to do a couple of ski seasons that really turned things round.

Apologies if this is unhelpful or it something you've already tried. I remember how hard it could be to get up and get moving when feeling low but even getting out for a walk now and then can be beneficial. Good luck with it, I hope you find something soon that helps you start to feel better.

[andrew70]

Do you do any physical exercise Andrew? I know it would be hard at first to start (if you don't already) but after a while I'm sure it would help your energy levels and to fight the lethargy and apathy that depression can cause.

I went through some difficult times in my late teens and into my early 20's and looking back it was my taking up an active job, playing 5 aside football again after years off and then eventually getting into snowboarding and travelling to do a couple of ski seasons that really turned things round.

Apologies if this is unhelpful or it something you've already tried. I remember how hard it could be to get up and get moving when feeling low but even getting out for a walk now and then can be beneficial. Good luck with it, I hope you find something soon that helps you start to feel better.

I go out walking every night, had increased that to a jog but been floored with a heavy cold the last week or two so just building it back up again from walking pace, i've never been the most athletic.

I also do 80 sit ups per night - this is more because the tablets I am on have increased my weight - I can't seem to shift it though. I am not overly heavy it's just completely out of shape.

I've also cut out the cr*ppy foods and replaced with fruits etc.

[stu in nottingham]

It's the hopelessness I am really struggling with right now.

I got myself in to a position where I could get back to my work but after work I am always so tired even going to a game at the weekend is hard work.

I feel hopeless in the respect of no matter what I do nothing gets 'much better' I figure that coz of this I will never be happy.

I would give my left arm to lead a 'normal' life...hell I can't even remember the last time I smiled properly.

So I keep myself to myself to avoid bringing others down. I can't face going out for a pint, I don't want to have conversations about everyday life with my mates, people more often than not annoy me for no apparent reason.

It's a catch twenty-two situation, I feel like I will always be alone coz I have no confidence to go out and meet new people etc.

Hi Andrew, yours are a lot of the classic signs of depression, feeling ennervated, hopelessness and so on.

To not surrender to those feelings of wanting to do anything - or feeling too 'tired' through depression too can be the key. That key is that you should try to ease yourself into doing some of these activities - in a small way, before the motivation comes. It won't feel comfortable, it might even feel painful but it is important to have a few little spells breaking out of that inertia you feel. Keep doing them - persevere.

I am here to tell you that things can and will improve, my friend. Many, many people recover from depression and given a bit of time, care and dedication on yourself so will you You are not bound to this forever, and there is no reason to feel hopeless. You need to work on a few simple steps as I've described though. Start at the very beginning, break it down day by day, hour by hour if necessary, but think of those little activities that you know will help and practice them in a small way. There is plenty of light at the end of the tunnel but you need to start at the beginning. Have a go, even if it's incredibly hard - just do them. Come back and report how it was, mate.

[andrew70]

Hi Andrew, yours are a lot of the classic signs of depression, feeling ennervated, hopelessness and so on.

To not surrender to those feelings of wanting to do anything - or feeling too 'tired' through depression too can be the key. That key is that you should try to ease yourself into doing some of these activities - in a small way, before the motivation comes. It won't feel comfortable, it might even feel painful but it is important to have a few little spells breaking out of that inertia you feel. Keep doing them - persevere.

I am here to tell you that things can and will improve, my friend. Many, many people recover from depression and given a bit of time, care and dedication on yourself so will you You are not bound to this forever, and there is no reason to feel hopeless. You need to work on a few simple steps as I've described though. Start at the very beginning, break it down day by day, hour by hour if necessary, but think of those little activities that you know will help and practice them in a small way. There is plenty of light at the end of the tunnel but you need to start at the beginning. Have a go, even if it's incredibly hard - just do them. Come back and report how it was, mate.

Cheers Stu, I do try to keep myself as active as possible.

I just feel like no matter what I do this always, always wins. :(

[Mikey09]

Stu is absolutely spot on Andrew. I always plan my day. I write things down the night before giving myself achievable goals. Can be something as simple as going a walk, planning a meal and going to the shops to get the stuff you need. But remember, keep them achievable. I've been there mate and although things feel hopeless it's far from true. If your medication is causing weight issues go to your GP and talk about it. I had the same problem with mine. We live in a world now where everyone wants instant results. This illness takes time and patience to get under control so we can live a normal life.... But I will tell you this, what is normal?? I have friends, work colleagues who don't suffer from any form of mental illness...... But they are more ****ed up than me!!! It's hard mate. You gotta work bloody hard to get on top of it but it's worth it and so are you... :agree:

[andrew70]

Stu is absolutely spot on Andrew. I always plan my day. I write things down the night before giving myself achievable goals. Can be something as simple as going a walk, planning a meal and going to the shops to get the stuff you need. But remember, keep them achievable. I've been there mate and although things feel hopeless it's far from true. If your medication is causing weight issues go to your GP and talk about it. I had the same problem with mine. We live in a world now where everyone wants instant results. This illness takes time and patience to get under control so we can live a normal life.... But I will tell you this, what is normal?? I have friends, work colleagues who don't suffer from any form of mental illness...... But they are more ****ed up than me!!! It's hard mate. You gotta work bloody hard to get on top of it but it's worth it and so are you... :agree:

Yeah for the first time in my life I got myself a diary at the start of the year. Every day I write what I've got to do at work, things I do outside of work (like walking, sit ups etc) it seems a very structured way of living and very routine but it works that wee bit better for me especially with regards to my work.

I certainly don't feel like I am or "it's" worth it anymore.

Yeah I know what you mean - there isn't really a "normal" I just guess I wish I was free of this pain, even just for one day.

[Phil D. Rolls]

Worth a bump, seeing as the subject is in the news at them moment.

[CropleyWasGod]

Worth a bump, seeing as the subject is in the news at them moment.
Yep.

The debate is interesting, if for no other reason than the loonies among us seem to be seeing it in different terms :)

[Hibrandenburg]

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/germanwings-crash-i-have-depression-that-does-not-make-me-a-psychopath-10141319.html?cmpid=facebook-post

Thoughts?

[Phil D. Rolls]

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/germanwings-crash-i-have-depression-that-does-not-make-me-a-psychopath-10141319.html?cmpid=facebook-post

Thoughts?

I was interested on her criticism of having everyone with Mental Illness in the same ward. As there as many mental illnesses as there are people in the world, I don't see what else can be done.

We don't have separate A&E departments for different conditions, and a psychiatric ward is very much the A&E of madness. It's a place to keep people safe before they are well enough to go into the community and really get better.

Great stuff about suicide though, and it puts recent events into perspective.

[CropleyWasGod]

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/germanwings-crash-i-have-depression-that-does-not-make-me-a-psychopath-10141319.html?cmpid=facebook-post

Thoughts?
The fact that the headlines have provoked a response from professionals and sufferers is one of the better aspects of what has happened.

As I mentioned on the other thread, this might be a watershed in terms of media representation of mental health issues.

[Mikey09]

Watched the 2nd part of Louis Theroux's fantastic documentary 'By reason of Insanity' last night. Might be on my own here but I really like Theroux's work. Got right in about the grey area of not guilty by reason of insanity. Anyway... I enjoyed it. Brought back some **** memories and made me think of how far I've come with my own battles with mental illness. Although I've not committed a crime in case it comes across that way!! :thumbsup:

[Phil D. Rolls]

Watched the 2nd part of Louis Theroux's fantastic documentary 'By reason of Insanity' last night. Might be on my own here but I really like Theroux's work. Got right in about the grey area of not guilty by reason of insanity. Anyway... I enjoyed it. Brought back some **** memories and made me think of how far I've come with my own battles with mental illness. Although I've not committed a crime in case it comes across that way!! :thumbsup:

His interviewing technique and the questions he asks are excellent. Great the way he sets the person up and lets them tell their own story.

Its for the viewer to decide whether the people he is talking to are mad or bad. Have to say that these were complex cases he was looking at.

[Mikey09]

His interviewing technique and the questions he asks are excellent. Great the way he sets the person up and lets them tell their own story.

Its for the viewer to decide whether the people he is talking to are mad or bad. Have to say that these were complex cases he was looking at.


Thought this thread should get going again.... Especially as we're playing them the morra!!! :wink:

You're right rolls, Theroux is very good at what he does. Would have been too easy for him to dance round the issue and ask easy questions but he has that knack of drawing out a story from the person them self. A lot of other interviewers could learn a lot from him. He makes it about the person affected by the subject whilst others want to make it about them. I like his work.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Not sure if FR will ever return.

[Pretty Boy]

Thought this thread should get going again.... Especially as we're playing them the morra!!! :wink:

You're right rolls, Theroux is very good at what he does. Would have been too easy for him to dance round the issue and ask easy questions but he has that knack of drawing out a story from the person them self. A lot of other interviewers could learn a lot from him. He makes it about the person affected by the subject whilst others want to make it about them. I like his work.

I think he gets away with it because he plays the naive, almost 'stupid', part well. That draws people out and they confide thing they maybe wouldn't with an interviewer who appears more polished and prepeared. Of course Theroux is anything but naive or stupid but he's using a technique that works for him.

I think that's why he now works predominantly in the US. He's so well known here now he probably wouldn't get the same success in drawing people out that he had in his earlier career when he was the new kid on the block.

[Sylar]

I'm no way a psychiatrist/psychologist but the increasing prevalence of depression/anxiety and stress related disorders on early career academics in Universities is something that I've been wondering about for a long time now and I've just commissioned a study that seeks to look at perceived emotional stress/wellbeing/post-work rumination and job satisfaction amongst PhD graduates, postdoctoral researchers and first-position lecturers - so far, the responses have been fairly alarming with almost 80% of respondents feeling they suffer from a stress or anxiety related condition but feel absolutely terrified to confront it, feeling it's part and parcel of the pursuit to becoming a full lecturer or established researcher!

This isn't particularly surprising to me but in all honesty but it's alarming nonetheless. Often, those of us looking to move into permanent positions are required to demonstrate so many skills and proficiencies, it requires working way beyond our normal means and '9-5' just isn't a realistic concept. In fact, most respondents feel they work more than double an average 40 hour week, spending lengthy evenings and weekends working on grant proposals, papers, analysis, coursework etc just to fulfil the criteria for a lectureship. It's little wonder many people leave academia in the UK and pursue their careers overseas.

[Pete]

I'm no way a psychiatrist/psychologist but the increasing prevalence of depression/anxiety and stress related disorders on early career academics in Universities is something that I've been wondering about for a long time now and I've just commissioned a study that seeks to look at perceived emotional stress/wellbeing/post-work rumination and job satisfaction amongst PhD graduates, postdoctoral researchers and first-position lecturers - so far, the responses have been fairly alarming with almost 80% of respondents feeling they suffer from a stress or anxiety related condition but feel absolutely terrified to confront it, feeling it's part and parcel of the pursuit to becoming a full lecturer or established researcher!

This isn't particularly surprising to me but in all honesty but it's alarming nonetheless. Often, those of us looking to move into permanent positions are required to demonstrate so many skills and proficiencies, it requires working way beyond our normal means and '9-5' just isn't a realistic concept. In fact, most respondents feel they work more than double an average 40 hour week, spending lengthy evenings and weekends working on grant proposals, papers, analysis, coursework etc just to fulfil the criteria for a lectureship. It's little wonder many people leave academia in the UK and pursue their careers overseas.

The people you speak of have chosen to fight their way to the top of a certain tree within society. To get there and stay there will be some achievement. The fear of failure is a natural thing that spurs people on when they set high goals for themselves but in today's high pressure society, it can all become too much and become unhealthy.

A lot of the people I know who have "built empires" are the most unhappy.

I believe the ability to build such an empire, be it a very successful business or career lies within every one of us. Finding something that you love or have a real passion for is the key as you will feel fulfilled even if you accept that you have to make sacrifices in other areas of your life.

How many of these PHD graduates really love what they are doing?


Personally, my job isn't challenging but it has an element of stress to it which I think is a healthy thing in a way. It's a natural instinct that keeps you going. I concentrate on things I love and have a real passion for things like football and art...and these are the things that define me.


I'm probably not explaining myself very well but I think more people need to sit down and think more about what they want from life....and I don't mean in the material sense. We aren't here for a long time so we really have to try and be happy with what we have and do what we love.

People put too much pressure on themselves.

[Sylar]

The people you speak of have chosen to fight their way to the top of a certain tree within society. To get there and stay there will be some achievement. The fear of failure is a natural thing that spurs people on when they set high goals for themselves but in today's high pressure society, it can all become too much and become unhealthy.

A lot of the people I know who have "built empires" are the most unhappy.

I believe the ability to build such an empire, be it a very successful business or career lies within every one of us. Finding something that you love or have a real passion for is the key as you will feel fulfilled even if you accept that you have to make sacrifices in other areas of your life.

How many of these PHD graduates really love what they are doing?


Personally, my job isn't challenging but it has an element of stress to it which I think is a healthy thing in a way. It's a natural instinct that keeps you going. I concentrate on things I love and have a real passion for things like football and art...and these are the things that define me.


I'm probably not explaining myself very well but I think more people need to sit down and think more about what they want from life....and I don't mean in the material sense. We aren't here for a long time so we really have to try and be happy with what we have and do what we love.

People put too much pressure on themselves.

The sort of people I'm speaking about aren't running departments or labs or such and in reality, we're not even in a secured position within a department.

To answer your question, I think most PhD graduates love what they're doing - they've had 3 (minimum) years slaving away at a chosen research project and if, at the end of all of that, they still elect to pursue a research career (typically as a Postdoctoral fellow) then it's not a decision taken lightly.

The desire of a lot of us is to go on to fully established academic positions - e.g., lectureships. To do so requires an inordinate amount of pressure from all corners that results in a high likelihood of failure along the way and I think you touch on something I've said myself in the paper I'm writing on the back of the survey - academia attracts perfectionists - those who aren't happy unless they've published x amount of papers or published in journals such as Nature or Science...those who view any grant income under £100k as 'small potatoes'. Factor in teaching reviews, paper rejections, actually conducting research and the additional stuff such as reviewing papers for others, attending conferences etc and the workload is exponentially unmanageable.

People put that sort of pressure on themselves because until they hit the security of 'tenure' (to borrow the American terminology), the temporary contract is an area of anxiety in itself as it's not secure in the slightest and can mean a lot of moving around and not being able to settle. The system also puts that kind of pressure on you though because until you can prove you can do ALL of that, you're not going to get anywhere near tenure. It's a vicious cycle that breeds stress.

[bobbyhibs1983]

Thank you to everyone whom has posted on this thread!
I ve read quite a few pages(not all though,sadly) and i guess in a selfish way it points out to me im not alone in feeling down/depressed.

A few helpful tips also included on the thread and well thank you all again for posting your experinces, the good ,bad and the ugly side of depression(if there ever was a good side to it?)

[CropleyWasGod]

Thank you to everyone whom has posted on this thread!
I ve read quite a few pages(not all though,sadly) and i guess in a selfish way it points out to me im not alone in feeling down/depressed.

A few helpful tips also included on the thread and well thank you all again for posting your experinces, the good ,bad and the ugly side of depression(if there ever was a good side to it?)

I was talking to a mate about this earlier.

In dealing with my depression, my fitness regime is better, as is my diet. I have discovered meditation, and a host of other management tools.

All of these help me deal with my depression, but also enhance my life. Had I not had the condition in the first place, would I have had them? I would argue not.

In that way, there has been a positive side.

[bobbyhibs1983]

I was talking to a mate about this earlier.

In dealing with my depression, my fitness regime is better, as is my diet. I have discovered meditation, and a host of other management tools.

All of these help me deal with my depression, but also enhance my life. Had I not had the condition in the first place, would I have had them? I would argue not.

In that way, there has been a positive side.

hi there glad that it has had a postive effect on you health mate!
Im in a similar situation and am trying to get in shape.eat better which im hopinh in turn will help with the depression.Just a part of me thinks its a good idea but the other part of me thinks im not *dealing with the problem of depression* if that makes sense .
I think it takes time and being a few stone overweight im sure will take a few more weeks than the person with a few lbs to lose!!

[Stranraer]

What I find makes my Depression worse is the fact that nearly every doctor I see just throws more anti psychotics at me. 700mg of Seroquel a night and they are talking about increasing it again.

For me, MoodJuice and other sites have been a great tool in showing different ways to deal with it rather than popping pills the whole time.

[andrew70]

Has anyone been on Lithium?

I am currently on 375mg of venlafaxine during the day and 45mg of Mirtazapine at night.

However I get about 3-4 'good' hours throughout the day then just feel very tired, upset etc.

I've been maintaining my exercise and healthy eating routine for a while and feel no difference in fact probably felt worse than I've done for a year in the last couple of weeks.

So my psychiatrist has suggested Lithium in combiniation with the venalfaxine through the day. Just wondered if people had any experinces with Lithium as I've done a bit of research and I am still unsure as to whether it's a good option.

[CropleyWasGod]

Has anyone been on Lithium?

I am currently on 375mg of venlafaxine during the day and 45mg of Mirtazapine at night.

However I get about 3-4 'good' hours throughout the day then just feel very tired, upset etc.

I've been maintaining my exercise and healthy eating routine for a while and feel no difference in fact probably felt worse than I've done for a year in the last couple of weeks.

So my psychiatrist has suggested Lithium in combiniation with the venalfaxine through the day. Just wondered if people had any experinces with Lithium as I've done a bit of research and I am still unsure as to whether it's a good option.

Don't know about Lithium, but I used to be on Venlafaxine.

I came off it when I saw what it did to my cholesterol levels. Maybe you should get them checked.

This time of year can be a struggle for us crazies. A combination of coming out of the hibernation of winter, and the very light nights, can combine to throw sleeping and energy patterns all over the place.

[MSK]

Has anyone been on Lithium?

I am currently on 375mg of venlafaxine during the day and 45mg of Mirtazapine at night.

However I get about 3-4 'good' hours throughout the day then just feel very tired, upset etc.

I've been maintaining my exercise and healthy eating routine for a while and feel no difference in fact probably felt worse than I've done for a year in the last couple of weeks.

So my psychiatrist has suggested Lithium in combiniation with the venalfaxine through the day. Just wondered if people had any experinces with Lithium as I've done a bit of research and I am still unsure as to whether it's a good option.A wee bit about Venaflaxine here ..Serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs are similar to SSRIs. They were designed to be a more effective antidepressant than SSRIs. However, the evidence that SNRIs are more effective in treating depression is uncertain. It seems some people respond better to SSRIs while others respond better to SNRIs.

Examples of SNRIs include duloxetine (Cymbalta and Yentreve) and venlafaxine (E***or).

These were the ones I was on & it was the Seroxat that practically destroyed me ...they offered me Sertraline but I refused & went cold turkey !!

Fluoxetine is probably the best known SSRI (sold under the brand name Prozac). Other SSRIs include citalopram (Cipramil), paroxetine (Seroxat) and sertraline (Lustral).



Ive had a few health issues to deal with the past few months & I am now taking 100mg of Trazadone (Oleptro) to aid sleep & hopefully kick my anxiety in to touch ...

[andrew70]

Don't know about Lithium, but I used to be on Venlafaxine.

I came off it when I saw what it did to my cholesterol levels. Maybe you should get them checked.

This time of year can be a struggle for us crazies. A combination of coming out of the hibernation of winter, and the very light nights, can combine to throw sleeping and energy patterns all over the place.

I prefer winter anyway but I understand what you mean. Although every time of the year seems to be a struggle. Got a stag do in budapest this weekend and I really ain't in the mood for it. Finding work harder and harder again which had been a lot easier since I returned to work in Jan after 6 months off.

I feel like I am regressing rapidly instead of progressing as I was doing a month or two ago.


A wee bit about Venaflaxine here ..Serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs are similar to SSRIs. They were designed to be a more effective antidepressant than SSRIs. However, the evidence that SNRIs are more effective in treating depression is uncertain. It seems some people respond better to SSRIs while others respond better to SNRIs.

Examples of SNRIs include duloxetine (Cymbalta and Yentreve) and venlafaxine (E***or).

These were the ones I was on & it was the Seroxat that practically destroyed me ...they offered me Sertraline but I refused & went cold turkey !!

Fluoxetine is probably the best known SSRI (sold under the brand name Prozac). Other SSRIs include citalopram (Cipramil), paroxetine (Seroxat) and sertraline (Lustral).



Ive had a few health issues to deal with the past few months & I am now taking 100mg of Trazadone (Oleptro) to aid sleep & hopefully kick my anxiety in to touch ...

So posssibly the venlafaxine is an additional issue rather than an aid?

[MSK]

I prefer winter anyway but I understand what you mean. Although every time of the year seems to be a struggle. Got a stag do in budapest this weekend and I really ain't in the mood for it. Finding work harder and harder again which had been a lot easier since I returned to work in Jan after 6 months off.

I feel like I am regressing rapidly instead of progressing as I was doing a month or two ago.



So posssibly the venlafaxine is an additional issue rather than an aid?Or dosage may need tweaked Andrew, Im not certain of that but def worth mentioning to your GP as opposed to just "getting on with it" ...its about what works best for the individual, Prozac & others imo made my symptoms far worse, to the point of unbearable, but they have been successful for others..

Hope it all works out for you mate ..:aok:

[andrew70]

Or dosage may need tweaked Andrew, Im not certain of that but def worth mentioning to your GP as opposed to just "getting on with it" ...its about what works best for the individual, Prozac & others imo made my symptoms far worse, to the point of unbearable, but they have been successful for others..

Hope it all works out for you mate ..:aok:

Doc checked last week, I am on the highest dose allowed.

Thanks, getting back to the stage where I can't see a way out of this hell.

[MSK]

Doc checked last week, I am on the highest dose allowed.

Thanks, getting back to the stage where I can't see a way out of this hell.You will mate, it wont be a quick fix, never is ..there will be a few dark days but things will move on, you are doing everything possible to get to the other end ...& you will ..:aok:

[andrew70]

You will mate, it wont be a quick fix, never is ..there will be a few dark days but things will move on, you are doing everything possible to get to the other end ...& you will ..:aok:

Thanks mate, I hope so.

Cheers for your replies, appreciated.

[Keith_M]

Has anyone been on Lithium?

I am currently on 375mg of venlafaxine during the day and 45mg of Mirtazapine at night.

However I get about 3-4 'good' hours throughout the day then just feel very tired, upset etc.

I've been maintaining my exercise and healthy eating routine for a while and feel no difference in fact probably felt worse than I've done for a year in the last couple of weeks.

So my psychiatrist has suggested Lithium in combiniation with the venalfaxine through the day. Just wondered if people had any experinces with Lithium as I've done a bit of research and I am still unsure as to whether it's a good option.


Oh Jeez, Venlafaxine, the drug they claimed has no side-effects, despite so many people's tales of how difficult it is to come off them. Turns out they knew all along and supressed the evidence.

Thankfully I've never been addicted to Heroin, so can't make a comparison, but if the withdrawal symptoms of trying to come off it are anything like trying to come off Venlafaxine, then I pity the poor Buggers.

Even forgetting to take it for one day can bring on the side-effects.


Have a read at this
(https://ef***orisevil.wordpress.com/2013/02/02/the-truth-about-ef***or-venlafaxine/)


EDIT: I seem to be having trouble adding the link because of a block on the letters f-e-x in the URL :confused:


https://ef***orisevil.wordpress.com/2013/02/02/the-truth-about-ef***or-venlafaxine/

[andrew70]

Oh Jeez, Venlafaxine, the drug they claimed has no side-effects, despite so many people's tales of how difficult it is to come off them. Turns out they knew all along and supressed the evidence.

Thankfully I've never been addicted to Heroin, so can't make a comparison, but if the withdrawal symptoms of trying to come off it are anything like trying to come off Venlafaxine, then I pity the poor Buggers.

Even forgetting to take it for one day can bring on the side-effects.


Have a read at this
(https://ef***orisevil.wordpress.com/2013/02/02/the-truth-about-ef***or-venlafaxine/)


EDIT: I seem to be having trouble adding the link because of a block on the letters f-e-x in the URL :confused:


https://ef***orisevil.wordpress.com/2013/02/02/the-truth-about-ef***or-venlafaxine/

I will have a wee read a the article shortly.

I take it at ten am every morning, if for whatever reason I fail to take it at that time then even just an hour or two later I can feel the effects.

[CropleyWasGod]

Oh Jeez, Venlafaxine, the drug they claimed has no side-effects, despite so many people's tales of how difficult it is to come off them. Turns out they knew all along and supressed the evidence.

Thankfully I've never been addicted to Heroin, so can't make a comparison, but if the withdrawal symptoms of trying to come off it are anything like trying to come off Venlafaxine, then I pity the poor Buggers.

Even forgetting to take it for one day can bring on the side-effects.


Have a read at this
(https://ef***orisevil.wordpress.com/2013/02/02/the-truth-about-ef***or-venlafaxine/)


EDIT: I seem to be having trouble adding the link because of a block on the letters f-e-x in the URL :confused:


https://ef***orisevil.wordpress.com/2013/02/02/the-truth-about-ef***or-venlafaxine/
I managed to come off it, but only because the cholesterol levels scared the crap out of me. I still had to wean myself off slowly, though.

Even now, I can get flashbacks.

[LaMotta]

Has anyone been on Lithium?

I am currently on 375mg of venlafaxine during the day and 45mg of Mirtazapine at night.

However I get about 3-4 'good' hours throughout the day then just feel very tired, upset etc.

I've been maintaining my exercise and healthy eating routine for a while and feel no difference in fact probably felt worse than I've done for a year in the last couple of weeks.

So my psychiatrist has suggested Lithium in combiniation with the venalfaxine through the day. Just wondered if people had any experinces with Lithium as I've done a bit of research and I am still unsure as to whether it's a good option.

Hi mate - just wondering what your healthy eating routine is? ie what type of foods you added in, anything you cut out of your diet??

[andrew70]

Hi mate - just wondering what your healthy eating routine is? ie what type of foods you added in, anything you cut out of your diet??

I live a very structured life now.

Breakfast: Porridge, honey and fruit (usually banana and raisins)

Lunch: Soup, 2 slices of bread, fruit cocktail, rice pudding

Dinner: Anything from Lasagne to Macaroni, Mince and Tatties to Sausage and Mash, Scampi to Chicken bites and wedges

Pudding - can be a choc bar or a cake etc but not every night.

I've cut out fizzy drinks for diluting and only drink alcohol once a month if at all. Very rare now as I just feel like it's an added depressant.

[andrew70]

Hi folks,

I thought I'd put this couch to 5k to good use:-


https://www.justgiving.com/andrew70/

The community foundation have been fantastic in helping me with a couple of different things.

[Stranraer]

I've had a bad couple of days myself. Since the Seroquel was increased to 800 mg I do get more sleep and I'm less impulsive but I find myself jogging and writing blogs when I'm wound up now instead of some of the bad habits I used to have. I'm on the maximum dose of both Seroquel and Zoloft and 10 mg of Pericyazine. At 23 I'm just a bit worried about the long term effects these meds will have on me given I've been on medication since the age of 18.

[andrew70]

I've had a bad couple of days myself. Since the Seroquel was increased to 800 mg I do get more sleep and I'm less impulsive but I find myself jogging and writing blogs when I'm wound up now instead of some of the bad habits I used to have. I'm on the maximum dose of both Seroquel and Zoloft and 10 mg of Pericyazine. At 23 I'm just a bit worried about the long term effects these meds will have on me given I've been on medication since the age of 18.

I can't talk about the long term effects as I honestly don't know yet but I guess it balances itself out by helping us at the time. The problem is every medication brings other side effects along with it.

As to how you are feeling just now, I hope your mood improves soon.

Exercising is good, I can't believe how much I am actually enjoying it. I was writing a lot about football but at this moment my mind isn't allowing me and that's getting me down but keep the writing up mate.

[lord bunberry]

Sorry to bring this thread back up but im going through a bit of a down period. I got back from holiday last week and have walked into a bit of a mess at work. I know what I need to do but I'm scared to make the big decision. I talked to my doctor last month about reducing my medication and I'm still struggling to balance what I want to happen with what I need. My doctor(who has been brilliant with me) is going off on maternity leave and I feel uncomfortable with having to speak to someone else.

[CropleyWasGod]

Sorry to bring this thread back up but im going through a bit of a down period. I got back from holiday last week and have walked into a bit of a mess at work. I know what I need to do but I'm scared to make the big decision. I talked to my doctor last month about reducing my medication and I'm still struggling to balance what I want to happen with what I need. My doctor(who has been brilliant with me) is going off on maternity leave and I feel uncomfortable with having to speak to someone else.
Sorry to hear this.

Is part of the issue the post -holiday blues?

[lord bunberry]

Sorry to hear this.

Is part of the issue the post -holiday blues?

I think so. It's never been an issue before though.

[CropleyWasGod]

I think so. It's never been an issue before though.
It always affects me.

I don't know you from Adam, so apologies if this comes across as patronising. ......my thoughts would be to avoid any major decisions until you're over the post - holiday stuff.

Your GP issue is unavoidable. ...and I empathise, I've been there. ....but the loss of that safety net might force you into finding other coping mechanisms.

In the meantime, get out in the light. ...maximise the exercise. That's what I'm doing, because we all know it's not here forever.

[lord bunberry]

It always affects me.

I don't know you from Adam, so apologies if this comes across as patronising. ......my thoughts would be to avoid any major decisions until you're over the post - holiday stuff.

Your GP issue is unavoidable. ...and I empathise, I've been there. ....but the loss of that safety net might force you into finding other coping mechanisms.

In the meantime, get out in the light. ...maximise the exercise. That's what I'm doing, because we all know it's not here forever.

Thanks for the advice. I got a bike a while back and have been thinking of giving that a go, rather than going to the gym.

[MSK]

Thanks for the advice. I got a bike a while back and have been thinking of giving that a go, rather than going to the gym.Thats what I have done mate, Ive been off work for a while and hope to get back at end of month, rather than sit and dwell over things I've been hammering the bike along the Innocent railway line path, feel it clears the head, and generally lifts the gloom.

[lord bunberry]

Thats what I have done mate, Ive been off work for a while and hope to get back at end of month, rather than sit and dwell over things I've been hammering the bike along the Innocent railway line path, feel it clears the head, and generally lifts the gloom.

I'm just round the corner from there, that's where I was planning to go.

[CropleyWasGod]

Thats what I have done mate, Ive been off work for a while and hope to get back at end of month, rather than sit and dwell over things I've been hammering the bike along the Innocent railway line path, feel it clears the head, and generally lifts the gloom.
Cycling can be so therapeutic. The physical and emotional benefits for me are undeniable . It's another form of mindfulness.

[MSK]

Cycling can be so therapeutic. The physical and emotional benefits for me are undeniable . It's another form of mindfulness.I have tinnitus due to a significant hearing loss and have recently been fitted with bilateral hearing aids, that news floored me just at a time I was feeling good. The bike has given me a new lease of life so to speak. Out doors I tend not to notice the tinnitus and after a good hard workout I forget all about the hearing loss. I'm out on the bike most days now and as you say, the physical and emotional benefits far outweigh the sitting in house twiddling thumb days/nights.

[CropleyWasGod]

I have tinnitus due to a significant hearing loss and have recently been fitted with bilateral hearing aids, that news floored me just at a time I was feeling good. The bike has given me a new lease of life so to speak. Out doors I tend not to notice the tinnitus and after a good hard workout I forget all about the hearing loss. I'm out on the bike most days now and as you say, the physical and emotional benefits far outweigh the sitting in house twiddling thumb days/nights.
I also have tinnitus, although not as bad as you seem to have it.

There's a theory that it and depression are physiologically linked, in that the relevant parts of the brain are very close to each other.

Whether that is true or not, the ways of dealing with the conditions are very similar.

[MSK]

I also have tinnitus, although not as bad as you seem to have it.

There's a theory that it and depression are physiologically linked, in that the relevant parts of the brain are very close to each other.

Whether that is true or not, the ways of dealing with the conditions are very similar.I just woke up one morn in October to loud whining in my ears (not the Wife 😃) thought it would pass but after steroids (doc thought it was blocked Eustachian tubes) I was referred to ENT and audiology and they told me I had the hearing of a 70 yo man !! Possibly caused by years of working as Scaffolder and with the Brewery. It's a blow, and it's hard to take knowing that I will probably never have silence again, and that kicked off the anxiety again. Thankfully though as said, getting out and about, be it cycling or walking has definitely helped ease the anxiousness.

[lord bunberry]

Thats what I have done mate, Ive been off work for a while and hope to get back at end of month, rather than sit and dwell over things I've been hammering the bike along the Innocent railway line path, feel it clears the head, and generally lifts the gloom.

I'm just back from cycling along the railway path, I had no idea that tunnel was there at the end.

[MSK]

I'm just back from cycling along the railway path, I had no idea that tunnel was there at the end.Its a great cycle mate, I start at the cycle path at the Jewel near Asda then along the back of Bingham onto the Innocent rail path, the time I get to the tunnel my legs have nothing left as the gradient knackers me 😃 the tunnel seems to never end though 😃

[Stranraer]

I've got a query regarding prescriptions. My GP refuses to change my medication without the consultant giving it the go ahead so I tried a different GP a few times and they all say they "can't" change meds. Is this really the case? It was my understanding that the Psychiatrist was there to guide and give advice to doctors, not dictate to them?

[lord bunberry]

Its a great cycle mate, I start at the cycle path at the Jewel near Asda then along the back of Bingham onto the Innocent rail path, the time I get to the tunnel my legs have nothing left as the gradient knackers me 😃 the tunnel seems to never end though 😃

I started at the miners club and went along to the tunnel. You're right about the tunnel being a killer, I was knackered by the time I got to the end. I thought about going round the park but I decided against it.

[MSK]

I started at the miners club and went along to the tunnel. You're right about the tunnel being a killer, I was knackered by the time I got to the end. I thought about going round the park but I decided against it.Me and my brother normally go through the tunnel then down the road, through Duddingston village, past Holyrood school and onto the path beside Duddingston golf course, that takes you onto Bingham and back onto the cycle path. The Arthur's seat road is particularly good early on a Sunday as the road is closed to cars etc so it's a good enjoyable safe cycle.

[liamh2202]

Me and my brother normally go through the tunnel then down the road, through Duddingston village, past Holyrood school and onto the path beside Duddingston golf course, that takes you onto Bingham and back onto the cycle path. The Arthur's seat road is particularly good early on a Sunday as the road is closed to cars etc so it's a good enjoyable safe cycle.

Is there not a cycle path that runs the whole way adjacent to the road?

[MSK]

Is there not a cycle path that runs the whole way adjacent to the road?Yes the Innocent does, it brings you out just down from Pollock Halls, there is a cycle/walkway adjacent to the road heading towards the palace but not towards Duddingston village.

[liamh2202]

Yes the Innocent does, it brings you out just down from Pollock Halls, there is a cycle/walkway adjacent to the road heading towards the palace but not towards Duddingston village.

Ah I see. My wife's uncle used to be parkeeper and used to live in the house at the start of the tunnel. I have an awesome video of my motorbike going up the tunnel when no one was around ;)

[Mr White]

Ah I see. My wife's uncle used to be parkeeper and used to live in the house at the start of the tunnel. I have an awesome video of my motorbike going up the tunnel when no one was around ;)

Cottage garden? I've hit a ball or 2 into there from the third tee at prestonfield :greengrin

HH and LB if you haven't yet I would recommend exploring the old railway paths that link warriston and bonnington with Leith and Granton and all the way to roseburn. A great way to explore the north of the city.

[MSK]

Cottage garden? I've hit a ball or 2 into there from the third tee at prestonfield :greengrin

HH and LB if you haven't yet I would recommend exploring the old railway paths that link warriston and bonnington with Leith and Granton and all the way to roseburn. A great way to explore the north of the city.I actually was part of a Council team that laid the cycle paths at Roseburn, Bonnington and Connaught Place many years back, haven't had the pleasure as yet to cycle on them though

[Mr White]

I actually was part of a Council team that laid the cycle paths at Roseburn, Bonnington and Connaught Place many years back, haven't had the pleasure as yet to cycle on them though

I've been down a few times as I'm interested in the former railways in the city. Last year my father in law and I started in king george v park, through rodney st tunnel down towards granton, turned at newhaven and headed to leith on the caley goods line and had a pint in teucters landing. Back on the bikes and onto the caley leith new line on easter road through restalrig to seafield and then onto the prom and along to the dalriada at joppa for another beer. From there it was up over harry lauder road, over the east coast main line and back up the road from portobello golf course. Was a brilliant day out travelling close to areas I know well but on paths I'd never seen before.

I realise all of the above has only a tenuous link to the thread but as a means of getting out in the sunshine (if you're lucky) and getting some exercise slightly off the beaten track it is, as happyhibbie has said, a very good option.

[lord bunberry]

Cottage garden? I've hit a ball or 2 into there from the third tee at prestonfield :greengrin

HH and LB if you haven't yet I would recommend exploring the old railway paths that link warriston and bonnington with Leith and Granton and all the way to roseburn. A great way to explore the north of the city.

I used to cycle along there everyday when I worked in gorgie.

[Mr White]

I used to cycle along there everyday when I worked in gorgie.

I bet you were happier on the return journey each day :greengrin

[lord bunberry]

I bet you were happier on the return journey each day :greengrin

I used to get home much quicker than I arrived

[Mikey09]

My wife works with dementia patients and puts on different themed days for them to trigger memories. I took this on and use the idea in a way when I'm having a bad time. Anyone can do it to suit there needs. I maybe watch an old comedian I loved, or an old episode of only fools and horses. You can go further back and watch your favourite cartoon when you were a kid. Listening to the first band that triggered your love of music. A book you read as a teenager. There is nothing embarrassing about doing any of this. It works wonders for me so I do it. When I started feeling brutal I used to lock myself away from everyone and wait on it passing... Now I do something, like what I've wrote, to help. Getting out is even better. I remember one particular time I felt crap we packed some sandwiches and headed off to The Whitadder in the Lammermuir hills with the dog. Used to go there as a kid and when we got home I felt great. To me triggers can bring on my bipolar, however they can also level me out as well. Thanks. Mikey...

[CropleyWasGod]

This is my favourite thread on Hibs.net.

The opportunity for men to talk about emotional problems, in relative confidence, and without judgement, is a wonderful example of the positive power of social media.

[Mikey09]

This is my favourite thread on Hibs.net.

The opportunity for men to talk about emotional problems, in relative confidence, and without judgement, is a wonderful example of the positive power of social media.


Absolutely CWG. Every football forum should have a thread like this. It could be the start of help and recovery for people who need it. It's also humbling and inspiring.

[CropleyWasGod]

Absolutely CWG. Every football forum should have a thread like this. It could be the start of help and recovery for people who need it. It's also humbling and inspiring.

:agree:

For every person who has posted on here, I reckon there will be another 3 or 4 who don't feel ready to talk....but who, hopefully, will be getting something from it.

[MSK]

My wife works with dementia patients and puts on different themed days for them to trigger memories. I took this on and use the idea in a way when I'm having a bad time. Anyone can do it to suit there needs. I maybe watch an old comedian I loved, or an old episode of only fools and horses. You can go further back and watch your favourite cartoon when you were a kid. Listening to the first band that triggered your love of music. A book you read as a teenager. There is nothing embarrassing about doing any of this. It works wonders for me so I do it. When I started feeling brutal I used to lock myself away from everyone and wait on it passing... Now I do something, like what I've wrote, to help. Getting out is even better. I remember one particular time I felt crap we packed some sandwiches and headed off to The Whitadder in the Lammermuir hills with the dog. Used to go there as a kid and when we got home I felt great. To me triggers can bring on my bipolar, however they can also level me out as well. Thanks. Mikey...A couple of years back when I worked at the Royal Edinburgh I bumped into an old acquaintance from the bowling club. He was in a very emotional state, his Wife was in the Jardine clinic dementia ward & whenever he went to visit her she just didn't relate to him. After being with her for over 50 years he was heart broken to see her sit with a blank stare. He would often sit for hours talking to her but he just wanted her to relate to something he was saying, something to acknowledge their love, their relationship/companionship, their hobbies, holidays or kids. He understood her condition & he understood that she wouldn't have long to live but he just wanted one lasting moment with her.

As simple as it sounds, I suggested he wore his white bowling jersey, it had a wee symbol of a bowl on it. Both were excellent bowlers & won many tournaments together. A couple of weeks later I spoke to him in the grounds of the hospital, he was in a much happier mood & explained that when he wore his bowling jersey his Wifes face lit up, she pointed to the wee bowling symbol on his jersey, smiled, uttered a few words & embraced him. That contact, as minimal as it was, was the connection he had yearned for, a lasting memory of the Wife, life long companion, mother of his children, he loved, adored & treasured.

She sadly passed a couple of months later.

[CropleyWasGod]

I've got a query regarding prescriptions. My GP refuses to change my medication without the consultant giving it the go ahead so I tried a different GP a few times and they all say they "can't" change meds. Is this really the case? It was my understanding that the Psychiatrist was there to guide and give advice to doctors, not dictate to them?

Sorry, this got missed, so bumping it in case someone knows the answer.

The cynic in me says that everyone in the medical profession is scared of being sued, hence the reluctance to go against someone else's advice.

But... I really don't know. Maybe someone out there does.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

This is my favourite thread on Hibs.net.

The opportunity for men to talk about emotional problems, in relative confidence, and without judgement, is a wonderful example of the positive power of social media.

It certainly puts a lot of the nonsense posted elsewhere on here into some perspective. :thumbsup:

[Keith_M]

This is my favourite thread on Hibs.net.

The opportunity for men to talk about emotional problems, in relative confidence, and without judgement, is a wonderful example of the positive power of social media.



Totally agree and I for one am grateful to everybody on here for both giving the subject the seriousness it deserves and also for the many posts giving advice and understanding.




:thumbsup:

[McD]

My wife works with dementia patients and puts on different themed days for them to trigger memories. I took this on and use the idea in a way when I'm having a bad time. Anyone can do it to suit there needs. I maybe watch an old comedian I loved, or an old episode of only fools and horses. You can go further back and watch your favourite cartoon when you were a kid. Listening to the first band that triggered your love of music. A book you read as a teenager. There is nothing embarrassing about doing any of this. It works wonders for me so I do it. When I started feeling brutal I used to lock myself away from everyone and wait on it passing... Now I do something, like what I've wrote, to help. Getting out is even better. I remember one particular time I felt crap we packed some sandwiches and headed off to The Whitadder in the Lammermuir hills with the dog. Used to go there as a kid and when we got home I felt great. To me triggers can bring on my bipolar, however they can also level me out as well. Thanks. Mikey...


Wonderful advice Mikey, if only one person is helped then it's all credit to you my friend, something I will try when I'm feeling in a crappy place, cheers

[Pretty Boy]

Good to see this thread bumped again.

Truth be told I've been having an utterly ***** time of it the last few weeks. Contrary to most people who's depression and anxiety tends to get worse in the winter I tend to get worse in the summer. My hayfever and asthma plays up in the summer and that leads to my mind running away and imagining my symptoms are something far more serious than they are. I came close having my first full blown panic attack in about 2 years in Tesco a couple of weeks back, dropped my basket and ran out the door as I was sure I was going to faint and couldn't breathe, just about managed to get it under control. I've also been really short with people and become far more argumentative than usual which is always a sure sign I'm struggling a bit. This all leads to me getting very frustrated with myself and that in turn makes me more anxious which makes me frustrated again and so the circle goes on. I've also been a bit paranoid about people hiding things from me or lying to me which isn't unusual but has been under control for a long while.

As well as the above mentioned problem with my mind running away with itself regarding my hayfever and illness we have also been dealing with a family illness that has been very stressful for everyone and work has been tough lately as well. I've tried to keep busy, walked 20+ miles last weekend and climbed 2 Munros and forced myself to the Scottish Open this weekend. Trying to keep active as the urge to just lie about feeling sorry for myself is strong but I know it's unhelpful.

[Mikey09]

A couple of years back when I worked at the Royal Edinburgh I bumped into an old acquaintance from the bowling club. He was in a very emotional state, his Wife was in the Jardine clinic dementia ward & whenever he went to visit her she just didn't relate to him. After being with her for over 50 years he was heart broken to see her sit with a blank stare. He would often sit for hours talking to her but he just wanted her to relate to something he was saying, something to acknowledge their love, their relationship/companionship, their hobbies, holidays or kids. He understood her condition & he understood that she wouldn't have long to live but he just wanted one lasting moment with her.

As simple as it sounds, I suggested he wore his white bowling jersey, it had a wee symbol of a bowl on it. Both were excellent bowlers & won many tournaments together. A couple of weeks later I spoke to him in the grounds of the hospital, he was in a much happier mood & explained that when he wore his bowling jersey his Wifes face lit up, she pointed to the wee bowling symbol on his jersey, smiled, uttered a few words & embraced him. That contact, as minimal as it was, was the connection he had yearned for, a lasting memory of the Wife, life long companion, mother of his children, he loved, adored & treasured.

She sadly passed a couple of months later.


as i said in my last post... Inspiring and humbling. Fantastic story hh... :top marks

[lord bunberry]

Good to see this thread bumped again.

Truth be told I've been having an utterly ***** time of it the last few weeks. Contrary to most people who's depression and anxiety tends to get worse in the winter I tend to get worse in the summer. My hayfever and asthma plays up in the summer and that leads to my mind running away and imagining my symptoms are something far more serious than they are. I came close having my first full blown panic attack in about 2 years in Tesco a couple of weeks back, dropped my basket and ran out the door as I was sure I was going to faint and couldn't breathe, just about managed to get it under control. I've also been really short with people and become far more argumentative than usual which is always a sure sign I'm struggling a bit. This all leads to me getting very frustrated with myself and that in turn makes me more anxious which makes me frustrated again and so the circle goes on. I've also been a bit paranoid about people hiding things from me or lying to me which isn't unusual but has been under control for a long while.

As well as the above mentioned problem with my mind running away with itself regarding my hayfever and illness we have also been dealing with a family illness that has been very stressful for everyone and work has been tough lately as well. I've tried to keep busy, walked 20+ miles last weekend and climbed 2 Munros and forced myself to the Scottish Open this weekend. Trying to keep active as the urge to just lie about feeling sorry for myself is strong but I know it's unhelpful.

One of the things I hate the most about my depression is when I start being really abrupt with my family. It makes me want to be on my own all the time so that I don't take it out on others. Lying in my bed makes me feel better but I know that's not really helping.

[Pretty Boy]

One of the things I hate the most about my depression is when I start being really abrupt with my family. It makes me want to be on my own all the time so that I don't take it out on others. Lying in my bed makes me feel better but I know that's not really helping.

Aye it's a pain in the erse as it's usually people who don't deserve it who take the brunt of it.

I'm just frustrated more than anything as I had a lot of things I was looking forward to this summer and I've ended up tolerating most of then rather than enjoying them which is annoying.

[K-Zazu]

This is a great thread. I have suffered from depression and anxiety for as long as I can remember.. Things get hard I know. Recently I've found that things like eating healthy drinking lots of water, cycling and keeping active can make u feel much better. Hope this helps lol

If you are going through hell, keep going - winston Churchill

[goosano]

Sorry, this got missed, so bumping it in case someone knows the answer.

The cynic in me says that everyone in the medical profession is scared of being sued, hence the reluctance to go against someone else's advice.

But... I really don't know. Maybe someone out there does.

GP's are free to prescribe what they want, other than a few drugs that have to be initiated in hospital. It's nothing to do with fear of being sued. If someone has complex mental health issues a GP may be reluctant to change treatment because doing so often means titrating treatment in and out and can make things worse. Sometimes if a number of treatments have been tried they will simply want to stick with what seems to be in part working rather than risking making things worse
Having said that, if a patient wants to change or have a change considered its not unreasonable to ask the GP to liaise with the psychiatrist by phone/email to discuss risks/benefits of changing treatment

[Mikey09]

Good to see this thread bumped again.

Truth be told I've been having an utterly ***** time of it the last few weeks. Contrary to most people who's depression and anxiety tends to get worse in the winter I tend to get worse in the summer. My hayfever and asthma plays up in the summer and that leads to my mind running away and imagining my symptoms are something far more serious than they are. I came close having my first full blown panic attack in about 2 years in Tesco a couple of weeks back, dropped my basket and ran out the door as I was sure I was going to faint and couldn't breathe, just about managed to get it under control. I've also been really short with people and become far more argumentative than usual which is always a sure sign I'm struggling a bit. This all leads to me getting very frustrated with myself and that in turn makes me more anxious which makes me frustrated again and so the circle goes on. I've also been a bit paranoid about people hiding things from me or lying to me which isn't unusual but has been under control for a long while.

As well as the above mentioned problem with my mind running away with itself regarding my hayfever and illness we have also been dealing with a family illness that has been very stressful for everyone and work has been tough lately as well. I've tried to keep busy, walked 20+ miles last weekend and climbed 2 Munros and forced myself to the Scottish Open this weekend. Trying to keep active as the urge to just lie about feeling sorry for myself is strong but I know it's unhelpful.



I can relate to a lot of that PB. The light nights in the summer play havoc with my sleeping pattern. I actually prefer the dark nights as I feel I sleep better. Hay fever is just an added pain in the arse I could do without as just like when I get a cold I really have to watch I don't slip into the habit of locking myself away from everyone. I'm 45 today and have suffered with bipolar since I was about 21. However, I would say the past 5 years I have lived with it. Acceptance is huge. For years I wanted to, and did blame others, mostly my family. My wife got the brunt of it as I would snap at her for making me feel crap. I have learned to first and foremost step back from situations and question why she is telling me something. To be honest 9 times out of 10 it's because I'm acting strange and I can't see it. I am so lucky to have someone who is patient and understands my illness and the way it makes me act sometimes. As others have said, this thread can be a sounding board for people and is without doubt the best and most important one on this forum. Stick in mate... Good things happen to good people.

[lord bunberry]

I can relate to a lot of that PB. The light nights in the summer play havoc with my sleeping pattern. I actually prefer the dark nights as I feel I sleep better. Hay fever is just an added pain in the arse I could do without as just like when I get a cold I really have to watch I don't slip into the habit of locking myself away from everyone. I'm 45 today and have suffered with bipolar since I was about 21. However, I would say the past 5 years I have lived with it. Acceptance is huge. For years I wanted to, and did blame others, mostly my family. My wife got the brunt of it as I would snap at her for making me feel crap. I have learned to first and foremost step back from situations and question why she is telling me something. To be honest 9 times out of 10 it's because I'm acting strange and I can't see it. I am so lucky to have someone who is patient and understands my illness and the way it makes me act sometimes. As others have said, this thread can be a sounding board for people and is without doubt the best and most important one on this forum. Stick in mate... Good things happen to good people.
Happy birthday mate.

[Mikey09]

Happy birthday mate.


Thanks mate!! :thumbsup:

[andrew70]

Good to see this thread bumped again.

Truth be told I've been having an utterly ***** time of it the last few weeks. Contrary to most people who's depression and anxiety tends to get worse in the winter I tend to get worse in the summer. My hayfever and asthma plays up in the summer and that leads to my mind running away and imagining my symptoms are something far more serious than they are. I came close having my first full blown panic attack in about 2 years in Tesco a couple of weeks back, dropped my basket and ran out the door as I was sure I was going to faint and couldn't breathe, just about managed to get it under control. I've also been really short with people and become far more argumentative than usual which is always a sure sign I'm struggling a bit. This all leads to me getting very frustrated with myself and that in turn makes me more anxious which makes me frustrated again and so the circle goes on. I've also been a bit paranoid about people hiding things from me or lying to me which isn't unusual but has been under control for a long while.

As well as the above mentioned problem with my mind running away with itself regarding my hayfever and illness we have also been dealing with a family illness that has been very stressful for everyone and work has been tough lately as well. I've tried to keep busy, walked 20+ miles last weekend and climbed 2 Munros and forced myself to the Scottish Open this weekend. Trying to keep active as the urge to just lie about feeling sorry for myself is strong but I know it's unhelpful.

I can relate to all this as well and what Mikey09 said a wee bit further on. I am winter person always have been and I hate the bright, summer days. The brightness irritates me, the warmth annoys me further, I sweat profusely (embarrassing) and in an unfortunate way I hate how everyone seems so cheery with it all and I am stuck being me.

I've been really struggling of late and as you say doing things has been forced rather than wanting to do them. Also looking for excuses not to do things although I think that is exacerbated by being skint.

I've also been made homeless. My mum and dad are wanting me out the house, the council don't want to know. Apparently 18k should be more than enough to rent my own home and pay all the bills. I am currently staying on my mates couch but that's no good for anyone as he has a young kid who he gets 3-4 nights a week.

The one person I normally talk to is going through stuff of her own so don't want to burden her with any of my nonsense.

I've been keeping going with my running and playing golf to keep active but it's the lack of fight that gets me.

As you say it's hard to break that circle, when you are in it, of depressed anxiety.

Stick in mate.

[Mikey09]

I can relate to all this as well and what Mikey09 said a wee bit further on. I am winter person always have been and I hate the bright, summer days. The brightness irritates me, the warmth annoys me further, I sweat profusely (embarrassing) and in an unfortunate way I hate how everyone seems so cheery with it all and I am stuck being me.

I've been really struggling of late and as you say doing things has been forced rather than wanting to do them. Also looking for excuses not to do things although I think that is exacerbated by being skint.

I've also been made homeless. My mum and dad are wanting me out the house, the council don't want to know. Apparently 18k should be more than enough to rent my own home and pay all the bills. I am currently staying on my mates couch but that's no good for anyone as he has a young kid who he gets 3-4 nights a week.

The one person I normally talk to is going through stuff of her own so don't want to burden her with any of my nonsense.

I've been keeping going with my running and playing golf to keep active but it's the lack of fight that gets me.

As you say it's hard to break that circle, when you are in it, of depressed anxiety.

Stick in mate.


The council have a duty of care to you if you are homeless... As you have a young child this should prioritise you. Maybe someone with a bit more insight can give you the advice and info you need.

[andrew70]

The council have a duty of care to you if you are homeless... As you have a young child this should prioritise you. Maybe someone with a bit more insight can give you the advice and info you need.

It's my mate, who I am staying with, who has the kid. He has joint custody so see's him at least three times a week. I am glad he's put me up for just now but council say I could be homeless for a while. They are looking into alternative accomodation i.e. B&B's and keep informing me of houses that I could be private renting in the local area.

That option is far too expensive for me with the cheapest rent approx £500 per month with council tax, bills and food I will have literally £100 left for the month at the very most.

[liamh2202]

It's my mate, who I am staying with, who has the kid. He has joint custody so see's him at least three times a week. I am glad he's put me up for just now but council say I could be homeless for a while. They are looking into alternative accomodation i.e. B&B's and keep informing me of houses that I could be private renting in the local area.

That option is far too expensive for me with the cheapest rent approx £500 per month with council tax, bills and food I will have literally £100 left for the month at the very most.

Have you looked into the option of housing benefit. On your wage I'd imagine you are entitled to some to help with private let. I used this option in the past

[Hibrandenburg]

I don't suffer from depression but this thread has certainly changed a few of my views on it. Good luck to all you guys who have to fight this on a daily basis.

[Mikey09]

It's my mate, who I am staying with, who has the kid. He has joint custody so see's him at least three times a week. I am glad he's put me up for just now but council say I could be homeless for a while. They are looking into alternative accomodation i.e. B&B's and keep informing me of houses that I could be private renting in the local area.

That option is far too expensive for me with the cheapest rent approx £500 per month with council tax, bills and food I will have literally £100 left for the month at the very most.


Sorry mate... Read that wrong! :idiot:

[andrew70]

Have you looked into the option of housing benefit. On your wage I'd imagine you are entitled to some to help with private let. I used this option in the past

When I had a meeting with the council they said I wouldn't be entitled to anything unfortunately.


Sorry mate... Read that wrong! :idiot:

No worries at all! Thanks for taking time to reply to me :aok:

[Liam89]

Good to see this thread bumped again.

Truth be told I've been having an utterly ***** time of it the last few weeks. Contrary to most people who's depression and anxiety tends to get worse in the winter I tend to get worse in the summer. My hayfever and asthma plays up in the summer and that leads to my mind running away and imagining my symptoms are something far more serious than they are. I came close having my first full blown panic attack in about 2 years in Tesco a couple of weeks back, dropped my basket and ran out the door as I was sure I was going to faint and couldn't breathe, just about managed to get it under control. I've also been really short with people and become far more argumentative than usual which is always a sure sign I'm struggling a bit. This all leads to me getting very frustrated with myself and that in turn makes me more anxious which makes me frustrated again and so the circle goes on. I've also been a bit paranoid about people hiding things from me or lying to me which isn't unusual but has been under control for a long while.

As well as the above mentioned problem with my mind running away with itself regarding my hayfever and illness we have also been dealing with a family illness that has been very stressful for everyone and work has been tough lately as well. I've tried to keep busy, walked 20+ miles last weekend and climbed 2 Munros and forced myself to the Scottish Open this weekend. Trying to keep active as the urge to just lie about feeling sorry for myself is strong but I know it's unhelpful.

I've had a real hard time of late with anxiety which has in turn spiraled into a bout of depression. I've been reading through this thread whenever I'm sat feeling sorry for myself and I appreciate and relate to a lot of your posts.

My hypochondria has turned into an almost unmanageable anxiety over my health at times. A month or so back I was on holiday with my girlfriend and had a panic attack for the first time, felt like I was going to drop dead and had no idea what was happening. The rest of the holiday was me acting normal trying not to ruin it for my GF whilst fighting to get my breathing under control and feel normal, I could barely leave the hotel. When my mind is distracted I tend to feel normal but as soon as I have a day off or have time to myself a wave of depression hits me and a sea of negative thoughts enter my mind, I've never felt like this before and I don't know how to get my mental health back to how it was a year ago. Hope all is well with you and all the other posters on this thread, I thank everyone for sharing as it really does help.

[MSK]

I've had a real hard time of late with anxiety which has in turn spiraled into a bout of depression. I've been reading through this thread whenever I'm sat feeling sorry for myself and I appreciate and relate to a lot of your posts.

My hypochondria has turned into an almost unmanageable anxiety over my health at times. A month or so back I was on holiday with my girlfriend and had a panic attack for the first time, felt like I was going to drop dead and had no idea what was happening. The rest of the holiday was me acting normal trying not to ruin it for my GF whilst fighting to get my breathing under control and feel normal, I could barely leave the hotel. When my mind is distracted I tend to feel normal but as soon as I have a day off or have time to myself a wave of depression hits me and a sea of negative thoughts enter my mind, I've never felt like this before and I don't know how to get my mental health back to how it was a year ago. Hope all is well with you and all the other posters on this thread, I thank everyone for sharing as it really does help.Sorry to hear that mate, anxiety is a tricky one, Ive been & still am in the same boat as you. After a recent health issue I started having anxiety attacks, some for fairly prolonged periods & almost impossible to control, I see them as "tidal" they tend to come in waves, some mornings I wake up & have the nauseus feeling in my stomach then the dark thoughts. Breathing techniques do tend to relieve the panic side for a period but the nausea & darkness remain for up to a day or so, sometimes longer.

I always use the analogy that with depression you care or worry about absolutely nothing, but with anxiety you care & worry about absolutely everything, no matter how trivial.

Thankfully I have good support from my GP & on my days off work I try to get as much exercise done as I feel that tends to reduce my anxiety too. Thus far Ive had far more good days than bad days & as days go by I feel the anxiety reducing. Try & get GP advice, even if its just talking to him/her, you may find that may help.

Good luck mate, its a horrible thing to go through.

[Greenworld]

I too unsually for summer am running a roller coaster of emotions utter depths of depression one day then fully positve the next followed quickly by a down. On the down days I do not want to speak to anyone and almost go into a trance. Thought it had gone from me as I had a long spell of being in a good place . Good luck its nice to know your not alone

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk

[Hibby D]

This is such a good thread - I ain't a man, honest :greengrin but I see some of my own issues in many of the experiences shared in this thread.

I just wanted to thank you all for your honesty, and bravery (I hope that doesn't sound too patronising or condescending) As someone mentioned above, for every one of you/us who posts, there's probably several more hovering around and hopefully feeling inspired, and consoled, by what everyone has to share.

[Keith_M]

This is such a good thread - I ain't a man, honest :greengrin but I see some of my own issues in many of the experiences shared in this thread.

I just wanted to thank you all for your honesty, and bravery (I hope that doesn't sound too patronising or condescending) As someone mentioned above, for every one of you/us who posts, there's probably several more hovering around and hopefully feeling inspired, and consoled, by what everyone has to share.


Not at all, D. Much appreciated.

:aok:


I actually felt a bit guilty that the thread is very much Male Oriented but I'm sure some of it will be useful to Women suffering similar problems.

I might be wrong in this but I've found that men are [I]generally less inclined to admit to depression, so it's good that there is at least one place guys can come to and discuss it without being judged.

[MSK]

This is such a good thread - I ain't a man, honest :greengrin but I see some of my own issues in many of the experiences shared in this thread.

I just wanted to thank you all for your honesty, and bravery (I hope that doesn't sound too patronising or condescending) As someone mentioned above, for every one of you/us who posts, there's probably several more hovering around and hopefully feeling inspired, and consoled, by what everyone has to share.Absolutley not, I think there is the stigma attached to depression & anxiety, folk are scared/shy to force or share their feelings upon others, particularly on an internet forum & it very much becomes a taboo subject.

I suppose, and thinking back to when I lived with depression, it wasn't the fear of disclosing it to others but more the fear of myself, everything outwith my "bubble" either didn't exist or was an "enemy" a denial perhaps that was deeply embedded into my train of deep negative thought. On reading & contributing to this thread its warming to think that although most are strangers to myself & others, we are all fighting the same demons, all at different degrees but all willing to share stories/feelings.

Heart warming indeed ...:agree:

[Liam89]

Sorry to hear that mate, anxiety is a tricky one, Ive been & still am in the same boat as you. After a recent health issue I started having anxiety attacks, some for fairly prolonged periods & almost impossible to control, I see them as "tidal" they tend to come in waves, some mornings I wake up & have the nauseus feeling in my stomach then the dark thoughts. Breathing techniques do tend to relieve the panic side for a period but the nausea & darkness remain for up to a day or so, sometimes longer.

I always use the analogy that with depression you care or worry about absolutely nothing, but with anxiety you care & worry about absolutely everything, no matter how trivial.

Thankfully I have good support from my GP & on my days off work I try to get as much exercise done as I feel that tends to reduce my anxiety too. Thus far Ive had far more good days than bad days & as days go by I feel the anxiety reducing. Try & get GP advice, even if its just talking to him/her, you may find that may help.

Good luck mate, its a horrible thing to go through.


I too unsually for summer am running a roller coaster of emotions utter depths of depression one day then fully positve the next followed quickly by a down. On the down days I do not want to speak to anyone and almost go into a trance. Thought it had gone from me as I had a long spell of being in a good place . Good luck its nice to know your not alone

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk

I can certainly relate to the tidal feeling of it. Some days I wake up feeling fresh and happy only to realise that I should be worrying about something! Might sound crazy but thats how it is for me at the moment. Cheers for the advice though HH, I've taking up cycling again to relieve some stress, definitely helps and would recommend it to anyone struggling mentally.

I know exactly what you mean by being in a trance like state, recently I've caught myself feeling like this whilst with my family and SO and they can definitely tell I'm not how I used to be, I'm not ready to confide in them yet though. Hopefully it'll pass!

[Greenworld]

I can certainly relate to the tidal feeling of it. Some days I wake up feeling fresh and happy only to realise that I should be worrying about something! Might sound crazy but thats how it is for me at the moment. Cheers for the advice though HH, I've taking up cycling again to relieve some stress, definitely helps and would recommend it to anyone struggling mentally.

I know exactly what you mean by being in a trance like state, recently I've caught myself feeling like this whilst with my family and SO and they can definitely tell I'm not how I used to be, I'm not ready to confide in them yet though. Hopefully it'll pass!
I have been dealing with depression after a major bout around 9 years ago liam89 I went to counselling which helped me a lot as i was in a bad place that I would not wish on anyone.
I deal with what I have now on a day to day basis but thankfully can go months feeling ok.
Drinking is a big downer for me good at the time but usually follows on with a big depression the following morning huge guilt trips even though ive done nothing.
Excercise is good as is trying to be around people, even though all your instincts want you to hide away alone..
Good luck mate always happy to try and help in anyway I can with advice or just someone to bounce how your feeling off.

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk

[MSK]

I can certainly relate to the tidal feeling of it. Some days I wake up feeling fresh and happy only to realise that I should be worrying about something! Might sound crazy but thats how it is for me at the moment. Cheers for the advice though HH, I've taking up cycling again to relieve some stress, definitely helps and would recommend it to anyone struggling mentally.

I know exactly what you mean by being in a trance like state, recently I've caught myself feeling like this whilst with my family and SO and they can definitely tell I'm not how I used to be, I'm not ready to confide in them yet though. Hopefully it'll pass!Not crazy at all mate, & I totally get where you are. I love my holidays & a couple of months back myself & my Wife went to Italy, I was an absolute wreck on the lead up to the holiday, to the point I was trying to find an excuse to cancel it. However I saw it as part of my ongoing rehab & a chance to rebuild my confidence & mental strength so I just gritted the teeth & went for it.

It did come with issues though, as the taxi picked us up at 0400am I went into complete anxiety/panic mode, I couldn't do it, I was hyperventilating, sweating, nausea, the lot .I scraped myself off the walls & got into that bloody taxi, I wasn't letting this beat me no matter what. That was my Wifes holiday too, she works her ass of & she needs a break aswell. She has also been my rock throughout so I was determined to fight this tooth & nail. I had a couple of wobbles whilst away but got through it.

Don't be scared to confide in your family either, you may feel you are being a burden but sometimes that extra ear could be the one that supports & gets you through this mate.

You will ..:aok:

[Sylar]

This is usually a time of the year when I'm incredibly relaxed and much more light-hearted - our students are all away for the summer and I get some quality time to myself to get on with research - our campus is quiet so there's not any queuing for lunch or coffee, or general bustle; the traffic into work is lighter and getting parked is easy (it's the small things). Like Pretty Boy, my hayfever gets really bad at this time of the year and combined with chronic gastric reflux, my mind can too wander to places of serious self-diagnoses, only to reign myself back in and give myself a slap.

This summer has been a ferocious whammy of problems though that just keep coming - I had a three day spin in early July where I was diagnosed as being asthmatic on the Monday, experienced significant family trouble from afar on the Tuesday and then was rejected for what would have been a life-changing career jump when everything looked so positive on the Wednesday. To say I was down, verging on maniacal/hysterial would be an understatement. My usual "out" is baseball but there have been so many problems and politics in our club this year that even that is a chore!

Based on how I've been feeling of late, I don't think I've fully recovered from everything - I buried myself in work to try and distract myself (after eventually convincing myself that the job rejection didn't make me a total failure, though this is common in people who've undergone a PhD - the thoughts of perfectionism and the Fraud Police are never far away). I've chipped away at work and have slowly begun applying for jobs again (current contract runs out in March so I'm in a bit of a looming panic) but constantly feel a sense of unease. Yesterday, I decided to pop up to Tesco (roughly 20 miles to our nearest big one) and on that drive, everyone on the road was annoying me in some way. That unyielding sense of irritation followed me around a busy Tesco with a lot of people just stopping, wandering right in front of me and generally getting in the road and I thought I was going to lash out at someone at one point - I eventually took my basket into the cafe and got a cup of green tea for 15 minutes and felt immediately better.

I hate feeling constantly irritable but there's no shaking it. It's making things that wouldn't normally annoy me, properly rattle me. For example, I usually game online in the evenings with a group of friends (virtually) - the other night, we were playing against a much better team and after I was killed for the umpteenth time, I was so angry I used a homophobic slur that to this day I can't get my head around - in that heat, my brain went for the most aggresive, offensive word it could find and out it came - I'm not homophobic in any way, shape or form! I immediately muted my mic and enforced a subsequent online gaming ban til I felt better but that hasn't quite arrived yet!

It's always nice to know I'm not going mad and that other people experience similar sentiments on a daily basis!

[Stranraer]

Thought I'd share some of my recent experiences. As someone with Borderline Personality Disorder, my mood can change several times in a day. One minute I hate you, the next I love you.

I found that by learning about my disorder it's a bit easier to control and understand.

My consultant has me on Seroquel at 800mg, Sertraline at 200mg and Chlorpromazine at 25mg but he is confident that as I continue to learn that the symptoms may become less severe.

A word of advice also: I bought the Borderline personality disorder survival guide on Amazon. There are several books by the same publishers on things like Depression, anxiety, PTSD so take a look folks if you are struggling.

P.S. Sorry to the admins for being too forward in the past.

Andy

[andrew70]

Has anyone experienced CranioSacral Therapy (CST)? I have been advised to try it.

My psychiatrist is going to change some of my medication so I am currently going through a weaning down process in order to start me on a new tablet.

Maybe happiness and pain relief is in the same place though?

I am tired, fed up and frustrated of not only feeling depressed but in constant agony all over my body.

The doctor's believe it is all anxiety related symptoms off the back of my depression.

This is the worst bout that I can remember coming up a year and a half now and still no sign of improvement in mood or otherwise. In fact I'd say my mood is the lowest it's ever been.

So hopefully this CST can help.

[s.a.m]

At the Book Festival yesterday, I was flicking through this:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Reasons-Stay-Alive-Matt-Haig/dp/1782115080

I haven't read it through, so I'm not in a position to recommend or otherwise, but on my skim-read, I saw quite a lot in his story which looked like it might be recognisable to some of the contributors to this thread: in particular, his experience with anxiety. In brief, he has a history of severe depressive illness, and had reached rock-bottom in his mid-twenties. Seems to be a story of hope and recovery. Easy to read, too.

The Book Festival has "Staying Well" as one of its themes this year:
https://www.edbookfest.co.uk/the-festival/whats-on/themes/staying-well?page=1
Most of the relevant events are sold out, unhelpfully....

[Mikey09]

Struggling like **** with my Bipolar right now. Last episode was a long time ago and this has come right out the blue, as they all do I suppose. I have my routine that I stick to re eating, sleep, exercise but finding it very hard to do this as I'm up and down. Basically all over the place. Manic one minute then crashing within an hour or two which leaves me exhausted. Been through this so many times and I know it will pass but it's so frustrating. Impacts on my work, family life...everything. Racing thoughts, can't sleep, exhausted, that ****in feeling in my stomach that something horrible is gonna happen. Hate this. It's ****. Just thought I'd share...

[CropleyWasGod]

Struggling like **** with my Bipolar right now. Last episode was a long time ago and this has come right out the blue, as they all do I suppose. I have my routine that I stick to re eating, sleep, exercise but finding it very hard to do this as I'm up and down. Basically all over the place. Manic one minute then crashing within an hour or two which leaves me exhausted. Been through this so many times and I know it will pass but it's so frustrating. Impacts on my work, family life...everything. Racing thoughts, can't sleep, exhausted, that ****in feeling in my stomach that something horrible is gonna happen. Hate this. It's ****. Just thought I'd share...

Sorry to hear that.

The bit in bold. That's important, IMO. The more I crash, the more I'm able to hang on to that one wee nugget. I try to think of it as a "physical" illness..... in those situations, we accept our illness, and wait for Nature to take its course and heal us.

In emotional issues, although our thinking processes are of course all over the place, I find it helpful to find ways of saying "I can do nothing about this.... I have to kick back and let my mind heal itself."

Hope you feel better soon.

[Canon Hannan]

Anyone else have these problems? My old man is from the old brigade who thinks pull yourself together is the answer. Never used to be like this and time in the army hasn't helped. However, I'm not afraid to admit things and feel no stigma in being affected by this.

Just wondering if other people here have had problems associated with these issues? I personally can get low and worry about things that many people wouldn't even give much a thought about! I'm on anti depressants but don't want to be on them forever. Has there been other things that people find useful?

Cheers

Sorry to hear your pain.

From my experience and others I have met- alcohol is often the underlying problem. Stopping this will help with anxiety issues, depression and general fitness and wellbeing. AA meetings can support people.

[Canon Hannan]

Has anyone experienced CranioSacral Therapy (CST)? I have been advised to try it.

My psychiatrist is going to change some of my medication so I am currently going through a weaning down process in order to start me on a new tablet.

Maybe happiness and pain relief is in the same place though?

I am tired, fed up and frustrated of not only feeling depressed but in constant agony all over my body.

The doctor's believe it is all anxiety related symptoms off the back of my depression.

This is the worst bout that I can remember coming up a year and a half now and still no sign of improvement in mood or otherwise. In fact I'd say my mood is the lowest it's ever been.

So hopefully this CST can help.

Hi there

CST works for some people. It is amazing but brought back memories stored in my head! I decided to buy a surf board and experience happiness through the sea/waves and outdoor activities. We have great beaches/waves in Scotland. It worked better than medicine. Hope that helps. Have a look http://magicseaweed.com/

[Mikey09]

Sorry to hear that.

The bit in bold. That's important, IMO. The more I crash, the more I'm able to hang on to that one wee nugget. I try to think of it as a "physical" illness..... in those situations, we accept our illness, and wait for Nature to take its course and heal us.

In emotional issues, although our thinking processes are of course all over the place, I find it helpful to find ways of saying "I can do nothing about this.... I have to kick back and let my mind heal itself."

Hope you feel better soon.


I know I will feel better soon Crops. I think since I've not had an episode, as my doc calls them, for a while I'm probably feeling a bit sorry for myself! Love that wee bit in bold.... Will certainly be thinking of it like that.
Thanks mate.

[CropleyWasGod]

I know I will feel better soon Crops. I think since I've not had an episode, as my doc calls them, for a while I'm probably feeling a bit sorry for myself! Love that wee bit in bold.... Will certainly be thinking of it like that.
Thanks mate.

... and that's allowed. :wink:

[Stranraer]

Online abuse on social media has made my BPD flare up like mad again, anger outbursts etc. My CPN says I'm to see a "Forensic Psychologist" (anyone know what / why that could be?)

As well as the 800 mg of Seroquel the Shrink put me on 75mg Chlorpromazine. I should change my username to Stranraer zombie but there's loads of Huns going around here.

[patch1875]

Weird I've noticed this tread today.

Was at the docs with what I suspect is anxiety, been suffering for a few weeks with a groin strain which itself is very draining but the last couple my mind is playing havoc with thinking my condition is worse than what it is so much so I spend virtually all day and night thinking about it. I sort of know it's nothing but cant get it out of the cycle of analysing it.

My big problem is I work for myself alone so not much to distract me away from it, anyway doc was good sending off a blood sample and pee test just to confirm there is nothing untoward I think all I need is the reassurance.

[CropleyWasGod]

Weird I've noticed this tread today.

Was at the docs with what I suspect is anxiety, been suffering for a few weeks with a groin strain which itself is very draining but the last couple my mind is playing havoc with thinking my condition is worse than what it is so much so I spend virtually all day and night thinking about it. I sort of know it's nothing but cant get it out of the cycle of analysing it.

My big problem is I work for myself alone so not much to distract me away from it, anyway doc was good sending off a blood sample and pee test just to confirm there is nothing untoward I think all I need is the reassurance.
Looks like I'm the resident consultant on this thread today :)

I've seen it written that "depression is not a sign of weakness. It's a sign that the body has tried to be too strong for too long".

With your physical issues, allied to your worries about what it might be, and the usual stresses of life....you might have just reached a tipping point.

I can empathise about being self employed. ....it can be a curse when you start living inside your own head.


Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

[Hibee_Lisa]

Online abuse on social media has made my BPD flare up like mad again, anger outbursts etc. My CPN says I'm to see a "Forensic Psychologist" (anyone know what / why that could be?)

As well as the 800 mg of Seroquel the Shrink put me on 75mg Chlorpromazine. I should change my username to Stranraer zombie but there's loads of Huns going around here.

My thoughts were that a forensic psychologist was to do with mental health for offenders.

I too suffer from bpd and depression which has hit me hard recently, I had been doing well back at work for nearly a year now without any absence and day to day life wasn't bad. I find it so frustrating that I think things are going fine then out of nowhere I'm hitting a low, hating myself and just wanting to sleep to forget. Thoughts that haven't been with me for a while now (self h) now start to creep back in!

[Stranraer]

My thoughts were that a forensic psychologist was to do with mental health for offenders.

I too suffer from bpd and depression which has hit me hard recently, I had been doing well back at work for nearly a year now without any absence and day to day life wasn't bad. I find it so frustrating that I think things are going fine then out of nowhere I'm hitting a low, hating myself and just wanting to sleep to forget. Thoughts that haven't been with me for a while now (self h) now start to creep back in!

Sorry to hear that the old sh has come back recently - I'm in the same boat and whats worse is the nurses are getting fed up with me going into the hospital. I always find that no matter how angry or depressed I get, I take it out on myself... always, which makes me worry about the forensic psychology thing :confused:

[patch1875]

Looks like I'm the resident consultant on this thread today :)

I've seen it written that "depression is not a sign of weakness. It's a sign that the body has tried to be too strong for too long".

With your physical issues, allied to your worries about what it might be, and the usual stresses of life....you might have just reached a tipping point.

I can empathise about being self employed. ....it can be a curse when you start living inside your own head.


Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

I've always enjoyed my own company but I suppose it can affect you mentally after a while, I have felt like this before as my groin is made of chocolate! but managed to get my head around it. Although I don't find really painful it's very tiring which I reckon triggers the mind into thinking the worse( I've had testiclar and prostate cancer and diabetes thoughts so far) hopefully the all clear will put this out of my mind.

Certainly didn't think would be something that would happen to me I'm 43 and usually easy going and care free with a nice happy life. Sympathise with the other posters as my issues are relatively small in comparison at the moment but it's certainly opened my eyes.

[Mikey09]

Day 3 of my Bipolar episode. Still getting some highs but mostly lows. Forced myself out of bed this morning and gonna take the dog a walk to get some peace and quiet as well as fresh air. Fingers crossed it will start to pass soon. Posting on here helps so using it as a day to day diary. I know your probably not meant to but hey ho....

[lord bunberry]

I've been on a real downer for months now. I get a few days of feeling great then it's back to feeling really low again. I'd started going to the gym again and that helped, but everything feels like a struggle and most days I can't be bothered doing anything. I'm basically working and sleeping. Today is a good day and I'm planning to give my self a good kick up the arse and get myself motivated.

[CropleyWasGod]

I've been on a real downer for months now. I get a few days of feeling great then it's back to feeling really low again. I'd started going to the gym again and that helped, but everything feels like a struggle and most days I can't be bothered doing anything. I'm basically working and sleeping. Today is a good day and I'm planning to give my self a good kick up the arse and get myself motivated.

I alluded to this in Mikey's situation.

As men, we're not very good at being "kind" to ourselves. The KUPTA approach always seems to be more "masculine".

Of course, you know yourself best, and will know how that works with you, but I know that, sometimes, just being nice to myself works wonders.

[lord bunberry]

I alluded to this in Mikey's situation.

As men, we're not very good at being "kind" to ourselves. The KUPTA approach always seems to be more "masculine".

Of course, you know yourself best, and will know how that works with you, but I know that, sometimes, just being nice to myself works wonders.
The kick up the arse has to be the first step for me to get myself into a positive frame of mind and out the house. Once I'm up and about I can think about being nice and treating myself.

[Pete]

I've been on a real downer for months now. I get a few days of feeling great then it's back to feeling really low again. I'd started going to the gym again and that helped, but everything feels like a struggle and most days I can't be bothered doing anything. I'm basically working and sleeping. Today is a good day and I'm planning to give my self a good kick up the arse and get myself motivated.

Get yourself back on nightshift. It's party central at the tron. :greengrin

[lord bunberry]

Get yourself back on nightshift. It's party central at the tron. :greengrin
I'm still doing nights, just not as many :greengrin

[Mikey09]

Day 4 of this episode. Not slept all night. Having to phone in sick as my job involves life guarding so would be putting others in danger not being alert. This is the point I could easily lock myself in my bedroom and slip into the old ways of dealing with this... Can't and won't do that though. Highs and lows seem to be levelling out more but the racing thoughts keeping me awake at night. Will walk the dog later and try to relax a bit. Cheers...

[lord bunberry]

Day 4 of this episode. Not slept all night. Having to phone in sick as my job involves life guarding so would be putting others in danger not being alert. This is the point I could easily lock myself in my bedroom and slip into the old ways of dealing with this... Can't and won't do that though. Highs and lows seem to be levelling out more but the racing thoughts keeping me awake at night. Will walk the dog later and try to relax a bit. Cheers...
Get yourself along to the game today mate, getting myself out of the usual routine can be a real help.

[Stranraer]

Chlorpromazine on top of the rest of my meds is making me a zombie, slight reduction needed ASAFP.

[Mikey09]

Highs and lows seem to have levelled out. Beginning to feel a lot better today. The symptoms of this are always the same for me, racing thoughts, manic then so low in the space of minutes, that feeling in my gut... what the hell is that?! All mixed in with a healthy dose of paranoia. Think the worst is over so onwards and upwards. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to post. Much appreciated...

[Liam89]

Highs and lows seem to have levelled out. Beginning to feel a lot better today. The symptoms of this are always the same for me, racing thoughts, manic then so low in the space of minutes, that feeling in my gut... what the hell is that?! All mixed in with a healthy dose of paranoia. Think the worst is over so onwards and upwards. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to post. Much appreciated...

Hope you're doing well Mikey. I'm in the same boat right now, bad health related anxiety. My mind latches onto a physical symptom and runs with it until I'm fearing the worst, so far every issue i've had turns out to be nothing bad. Going to go to the docs today and ask about help for anxiety because i've barely been sleeping recently.

[Pretty Boy]

Hope you're doing well Mikey. I'm in the same boat right now, bad health related anxiety. My mind latches onto a physical symptom and runs with it until I'm fearing the worst, so far every issue i've had turns out to be nothing bad. Going to go to the docs today and ask about help for anxiety because i've barely been sleeping recently.

Channel 4 had a new documentary last night called House of Hypochondriacs dealing with health anxiety.

It was 'very Channel 4' if that makes sense but there was a few good sections in it and it explained the condition in pretty simple terms for those who maybe don't understand how difficult it is to live with. Will be interesting to see how it develops.

[Liam89]

Channel 4 had a new documentary last night called House of Hypochondriacs dealing with health anxiety.

It was 'very Channel 4' if that makes sense but there was a few good sections in it and it explained the condition in pretty simple terms for those who maybe don't understand how difficult it is to live with. Will be interesting to see how it develops.

I saw it advertised but didn't watch it. I'll probably catch it on 4od. It's a terrible thing to deal with especially as hypochondria has a similar reputation as OCD in that a lot of people say they have it but don't know the true anxiety it causes people.

[Hibee_Lisa]

Has anyone had any experience of visiting the outpatient mental health at Cambridge street? And if so how did it go?

[patch1875]

Well after a couple of trips to the docs about my health and anxiety I'm now been given meds to take(sertraline) going to wait a day or two before I decide to give them a try as I wasn't sure I wanted to go down that route also got private health care so going to call them to see if some counciling is covered.
Had a torrid few weeks after a gastro bug floored me putting my mind into overdrive it's on my mind 24/7 so not sleeping eating feeling good just now.

[stoneyburn hibs]

It's warming to look in on this thread and see people encouraging others. Fabulous thread.

[lord bunberry]

Well after a couple of trips to the docs about my health and anxiety I'm now been given meds to take(sertraline) going to wait a day or two before I decide to give them a try as I wasn't sure I wanted to go down that route also got private health care so going to call them to see if some counciling is covered.
Had a torrid few weeks after a gastro bug floored me putting my mind into overdrive it's on my mind 24/7 so not sleeping eating feeling good just now.
I was wary about taking medication at first, but it has turned things around for me. Everyone is different and it won't work for everyone, but don't be scared to try it.
Good luck and good health.

[patch1875]

I was wary about taking medication at first, but it has turned things around for me. Everyone is different and it won't work for everyone, but don't be scared to try it.
Good luck and good health.

Thanks, decided to go for it. Doc said to start on a half tablet for a couple of days and it may be a couple of weeks before it kicks in properly.

[patch1875]

What a week! I've been to the GPs 6 times in the last 2 weeks with my anxiety,been having terrible few days(apparently the meds can make it worse at the start) so much so that my wife took me today as she was concerned for my well being. A good chat with the doc and clear blood tests that I had done on Friday and hopefully I've turned the corner.

Had my first CBT meeting this week which was more of an assessment so get into it properly next week,the form I had to fill in about my current state is not good reading!

[CropleyWasGod]

What a week! I've been to the GPs 6 times in the last 2 weeks with my anxiety,been having terrible few days(apparently the meds can make it worse at the start) so much so that my wife took me today as she was concerned for my well being. A good chat with the doc and clear blood tests that I had done on Friday and hopefully I've turned the corner.

Had my first CBT meeting this week which was more of an assessment so get into it properly next week,the form I had to fill in about my current state is not good reading!

You're going in the right direction :)

It can be a long, hard slog, and at times it can feel like 3 steps forward, 2 back.

CBT isn't for everyone, that's for sure, but it can be very helpful. The main point, though, is that you're actually doing something, and that has to be a comfort for you. :)

[patch1875]

You're going in the right direction :)

It can be a long, hard slog, and at times it can feel like 3 steps forward, 2 back.

CBT isn't for everyone, that's for sure, but it can be very helpful. The main point, though, is that you're actually doing something, and that has to be a comfort for you. :)

Thanks, definitely feeling a bit more positive today with much less of the analysis of my health, my wife has been an absolute rock even missing her xmas party to stay with me.

Still can't believe I'm in this situation my wife said to the doc today how much I've changed in such little time quite frightening really.

[Pretty Boy]

Thanks, definitely feeling a bit more positive today with much less of the analysis of my health, my wife has been an absolute rock even missing her xmas party to stay with me.

Still can't believe I'm in this situation my wife said to the doc today how much I've changed in such little time quite frightening really.

Keep at it.

It took me a long time to get out of my cycle of thinking regarding my health, teaching myself to drop my little rituals and obsessive 'checking' but I got there and so can you.

I've had a really crap time the last couple of months with a close family bereavement and a serious illness in my girlfriends family but the other night it hit me like a ton of bricks that I actually felt/feel 'well'. I've obviously been aware for some time I've been feeling better but I really noticed that there was no aches, no chest pain, no breathlessness, no tight throat, no fatigue....

Be patient and you'll get there, focus on the good days and learn from the bad.

[patch1875]

Keep at it.

It took me a long time to get out of my cycle of thinking regarding my health, teaching myself to drop my little rituals and obsessive 'checking' but I got there and so can you.

I've had a really crap time the last couple of months with a close family bereavement and a serious illness in my girlfriends family but the other night it hit me like a ton of bricks that I actually felt/feel 'well'. I've obviously been aware for some time I've been feeling better but I really noticed that there was no aches, no chest pain, no breathlessness, no tight throat, no fatigue....

Be patient and you'll get there, focus on the good days and learn from the bad.
Thank you PB good to hear it's getting positive for you. Really trying to get my breathing under control found out at the CBT that people breath around 12 times a minute I was timed at 26 so basically hyperventilating all the time without really knowing it! No wonder the symptoms you mentioned have such an impact.

[Liam89]

Keep at it.

It took me a long time to get out of my cycle of thinking regarding my health, teaching myself to drop my little rituals and obsessive 'checking' but I got there and so can you.

I've had a really crap time the last couple of months with a close family bereavement and a serious illness in my girlfriends family but the other night it hit me like a ton of bricks that I actually felt/feel 'well'. I've obviously been aware for some time I've been feeling better but I really noticed that there was no aches, no chest pain, no breathlessness, no tight throat, no fatigue....

Be patient and you'll get there, focus on the good days and learn from the bad.

It's amazing just how much anxiety can manifest itself into physical symptoms. I had a few tests run for a specific condition I won't mention but for months whilst waiting for the results I was feeling tightness in chest, breathlessness, numbness and panic attacks. Once it came back clear I suddenly felt fighting fit without anything actually changing but my state of mind. I'm still struggling with over analysing small, every day body oddities that most people experience but I'm trying to stay in a positive frame of mind and it does work. Hope everyone is doing well.

[Greenworld]

I just wanted to say well done guys keep discussing for many me included this is one of the worst months I dont know if its xmas or the long dark days maybe both.
Ive only just come out of as bad a bout of depression ive had in a long time.
Anxiety....paranoia.... a bit of everything..
I made a fatal error of trying to deal with it all myself and reached breaking point. My partner was rightly furious but supportive .
The one thing that she kept asking was what was it was it her? Was it work? What was it.
The Truth is I never know what causes it I doubt most peple do..I do know yhis trying to deal with it on your own is the worst thing u can do...
Confide in someone it will be the start of your recovery ...in the words of yhat Bt advert its good to talk....

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[Mikey09]

Just a wee post, as I can't sleep, to all you mentalists and would be mentalists to stick in over Christmas. I love it but I know some people really do struggle at this time of year. So try to enjoy yourself, get out a walk, do what makes you happy... And Dinnae be scared to talk if yer feeling crap. Even venting on this fantastic thread helps! MON THE CABBAGE!!! :xtree2:dizzy:rudolph:kinky:santa:snowman1

[Sylar]

Just a wee post, as I can't sleep, to all you mentalists and would be mentalists to stick in over Christmas. I love it but I know some people really do struggle at this time of year. So try to enjoy yourself, get out a walk, do what makes you happy... And Dinnae be scared to talk if yer feeling crap. Even venting on this fantastic thread helps! MON THE CABBAGE!!! :xtree2:dizzy:rudolph:kinky:santa:snowman1

:agree: All the best to you, and everyone on this thread for the festive period. It certainly isn't an easy time as typical worries are often compounded by financial worries and logistical worries of being places at times and having to have on a face for all social gatherings.

2015 has been a tumultuous year with a lot of good and bad. Thankfully, next year I'm starting a new job away from this current hell that will also have me moving back to Scotland, which will hopefully help.

I'd echo the appreciation of this thread and all who post on it. And to the poster further up who mentioned health anxiety, I hope you managed to speak to your GP. It's one of my two anxieties and it's crippling at this time of the year as we're much more susceptible to bugs and seasonal illnesses!

[stu in nottingham]

:agree: All the best to you, and everyone on this thread for the festive period. It certainly isn't an easy time as typical worries are often compounded by financial worries and logistical worries of being places at times and having to have on a face for all social gatherings.


Have to agree with this, sympathies with anyone feeling this way. I can certainly draw a comparison as I dreaded the holidays coming for some of the reasons above. I used to enjoy Christmas like many people but now it feels like a trial. New Year celebrations were always special to me and yet now I find myself not knowing what to do with myself. Uneasy to go out, uneasy to stay home alone, it's so difficult.

This time of year has always afforded time off work to look forward to. I now find that I don't do well on my own over the holidays. What is curious and self-hurtful is that although receiving invitations I now find myself avoiding social situations which are above and beyond the ordinary. It feels like a vicious cycle I am unable to break out of.

[Northernhibee]

Was hoping someone could offer advice, I've had a few friends comment that I've been really "up and down" recently. I've been through four really tough years and have noticed signs of depression in my behaviour - I've managed low mood with St Johns Wort before but I've been convinced to go and see a GP. I'm nervous about the whole thing in case I'm wasting their time and being melodramatic - how have people opened up about this before to a GP?

[MSK]

Was hoping someone could offer advice, I've had a few friends comment that I've been really "up and down" recently. I've been through four really tough years and have noticed signs of depression in my behaviour - I've managed low mood with St Johns Wort before but I've been convinced to go and see a GP. I'm nervous about the whole thing in case I'm wasting their time and being melodramatic - how have people opened up about this before to a GP?Speak to your GP, explain your feelings. Its better to air things now before you sink deeper into depression, its a hard enough road to travel down on your own so get all the support you can. It may mean medication, it may not, but go see your GP and get support.

Good luck and keep us posted 👍

[CropleyWasGod]

Going to a GP can be a lottery. If you're unlucky, you can get someone who will send you away with a bottle of pills and no support. I've been there, and it has made me feel worse.

Now, though, I have a great relationship with my GP. I suspect she's been there herself.

I think the latter is more common these days, given the increased acceptance of the illness. If I were you, I would go for it. And don't necessarily accept the first advice that you get. Only you know how you feel.

Let us know :)

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[MSK]

Going to a GP can be a lottery. If you're unlucky, you can get someone who will send you away with a bottle of pills and no support. I've been there, and it has made me feel worse.

Now, though, I have a great relationship with my GP. I suspect she's been there herself.

I think the latter is more common these days, given the increased acceptance of the illness. If I were you, I would go for it. And don't necessarily accept the first advice that you get. Only you know how you feel.

Let us know :)

Sent from my GT-I9505 using TapatalkYip, the one thing I felt uneasy about (and kinda patronising in a way) was the depression tick list, ie - from a scale of 1-10 have you ever felt like harming yourself etc.

Depression in any shape or form is a personal issue and one that many struggle to express to a GP, however on a one to one Its easier for a Doctor to guage your feelings by talking through issues rather than a sheet of paper with a tick list.

[lord bunberry]

Was hoping someone could offer advice, I've had a few friends comment that I've been really "up and down" recently. I've been through four really tough years and have noticed signs of depression in my behaviour - I've managed low mood with St Johns Wort before but I've been convinced to go and see a GP. I'm nervous about the whole thing in case I'm wasting their time and being melodramatic - how have people opened up about this before to a GP?
The last thing you have to worry about is wasting your doctors time. Just go in there and be honest about how you are feeling and take it from there. My doctor was great and very understanding and I suspect most doctors these days will be the same.

[patch1875]

Took me a couple if goes to get help from my doc but that was probably due to that not being the main issue I went, once my anxiety got bad i went back and basically asked for help, a good chat going through how I was feeling in my head and I was asked if I wanted to give meds ago to see if that would help(which I did)

A bit of an update about me.

after 4 weeks on Sertraline and not having a particularly good time on them I decided to stop them, appreciate I never gave them enough time but the side effect of sweating,sharp pains in my limbs, worse anxiety(this passed) but worse of all insomnia I decided I could handle or want to take them anymore.

the decision I took was I didn't want to be on meds I had been fine all my life and just couldn't understand how I needed them now and also I really just didn't understand what the Sertraline was going to do to make me better(didn't feel any different on them the time I took them).

the issue that triggered it all was my panicking about my health so I decided I need to get to the bottom of my concerns first and see how I deal with it from there. My stomach has not been right for nearly 3 months so I decided to book a private appointment with a gastroenterologist to work out why I was still not feeling right.

this is pretty much where I am now I'm awaiting results of various blood and poop samples, the doc agrees that something is not right so hopefully the test will find out, he doesn't think it's anything sinister but the tests are going to look for things like crohns,ibs,celiac, ulcers plus a few other things to with how my stomach deals with food.

i actually feeling much better I've got my head round to a better place. I'm glad I decided to stop the tablets and have a go at dealing with it myself,I'm still a bit concerned about how I feel but I'm much happier and more relaxed about it all now.

[I'm_cabbaged]

Going to a GP can be a lottery. If you're unlucky, you can get someone who will send you away with a bottle of pills and no support. I've been there, and it has made me feel worse.

Now, though, I have a great relationship with my GP. I suspect she's been there herself.

I think the latter is more common these days, given the increased acceptance of the illness. If I were you, I would go for it. And don't necessarily accept the first advice that you get. Only you know how you feel.

Let us know :)

Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

I've been on 3 different meds with the last lot sending my anxiety through the roof. Went to my gp and she asked me what action I thought was best, obviously I wanted off what I'm taking just now. I'm now gradually coming off them but she never offered any alternative, I'm dreading what im going to be like next week!!!!

[CropleyWasGod]

I've been on 3 different meds with the last lot sending my anxiety through the roof. Went to my gp and she asked me what action I thought was best, obviously I wanted off what I'm taking just now. I'm now gradually coming off them but she never offered any alternative, I'm dreading what im going to be like next week!!!!
I have had reasonable results with 5Htp, which is a non - prescription compound. It's been good when I'm feeling like I'm on a downturn, but not so low that only meds will do.
No side - effects, as far as I can tell. Might be worth checking out, although your GP probably can't help with an opinion as there is insufficient research evidence out there.

Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

Before I joined the forum last month I used to regularly read this thread. It's not been commented on in a while.... Probs cause we've all just experienced one of the greatest highs ever so everyone is still on cloud 9.

As someone who suffers from depression I just wanna say thanks to the posters, although I wasn't involved in the chat even just reading some of you guys experience's has helped me a lot in dealing with my condition. Docs today think that a long standing condition I've had for 2 or 3 years could be chronic fatigue syndrome so hopefully on the road to recovery now

[Ronniekirk]

Havent seen this thread before
Patch 1875 In terms of breathing techniques and giving you insight into the way this impacts on the body and mind you can by some good books on Mindfulness or find out if groups run in your area
Someone trained in that technique can also help identify areas in the body that then tense up or feel sore
Getting any medical tests lined up can also take some of the stress off and deescalate feelings of panic that escalate into full blown anxiety attacks You can rewire-the way your brain thinks about situations but that takes time and someone you trust talking you through the process so you have some understanding of why things happen and learn to identify sigs and break the cycle
But often guys find it difficult to seek support or if they do they are fobbed off with anti depressant medication without getting to the teal triggers and talking those through
Keeping to routines and getting regular exercise and tome to relax and practise breathing techniques can be difficult to fit in in a busy working schedule but are essential components to help assist
Sounds like you are on the right track but the whole area of mental health is poorly resourced and has been underfunded for years Don't know if you saw the Professor Green ( the rapper ) documentary where he went on a journey of self discovery into his own family history of mental health which had been privately troubling him For years Very moving and touching story
Anyway just thought i would add to the debate and hope anyone reading this thread who feels isolated and hasn't taken the first step to Talk to someone does so and those tackling their own issues make progress



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[pacoluna]

Havent seen this thread before
Patch 1875 In terms of breathing techniques and giving you insight into the way this impacts on the body and mind you can by some good books on Mindfulness or find out if groups run in your area
Someone trained in that technique can also help identify areas in the body that then tense up or feel sore
Getting any medical tests lined up can also take some of the stress off and deescalate feelings of panic that escalate into full blown anxiety attacks You can rewire-the way your brain thinks about situations but that takes time and someone you trust talking you through the process so you have some understanding of why things happen and learn to identify sigs and break the cycle
But often guys find it difficult to seek support or if they do they are fobbed off with anti depressant medication without getting to the teal triggers and talking those through
Keeping to routines and getting regular exercise and tome to relax and practise breathing techniques can be difficult to fit in in a busy working schedule but are essential components to help assist
Sounds like you are on the right track but the whole area of mental health is poorly resourced and has been underfunded for years Don't know if you saw the Professor Green ( the rapper ) documentary where he went on a journey of self discovery into his own family history of mental health which had been privately troubling him For years Very moving and touching story
Anyway just thought i would add to the debate and hope anyone reading this thread who feels isolated and hasn't taken the first step to Talk to someone does so and those tackling their own issues make progress



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Going to the doctors for medical tests reinforces the Hypochondria for anyone with health anxiety.

[CropleyWasGod]

Going to the doctors for medical tests reinforces the Hypochondria for anyone with health anxiety.

Whilst that may be true in some cases, it's by no means correct for everyone. What I have seen is that everyone's depression is different, and is personal to them. Everybody's care and management of their depression has to suit them; there is no generic treatment that suits everyone.

If part of that management is consulting with professionals, and it works, then so be it.

[pacoluna]

Whilst that may be true in some cases, it's by no means correct for everyone. What I have seen is that everyone's depression is different, and is personal to them. Everybody's care and management of their depression has to suit them; there is no generic treatment that suits everyone.

If part of that management is consulting with professionals, and it works, then so be it.

I agree, Of course behavioural and cognitive therapy is an important aspect of management for some/most people with depression, and as you say everyone has their own way of coping/dealing with their symptoms.

I was alluding to Physical checks as in blood tests/ecg/mri's for those with Hypochondria/ health anxiety as it's just as vicious a cycle as googling your symptoms.

[Mikey09]

Ok. Time for me to post again. Had probably the worst two weeks I've experienced for a good few years. Head racing, paranoia, manic one minute, crashing lows 30 minutes later. Physically tired but mentally done in. Everything, and I mean everything I couldn't give a flying **** about. My bipolar has hit me like a train and out of nowhere. I can usually see the signs and put things in place but this episode has just done me. Today is the first time I've felt slightly better so decided to post. I know this is something I have to deal with for life and have accepted that, but it's ***** at the time. It's wearing on my family who are amazing in dealing with me. Days just now feel like weeks. Tomorrows another day so hopefully my moods level out a bit more. It's just so ****ing tiring.

[CropleyWasGod]

Ok. Time for me to post again. Had probably the worst two weeks I've experienced for a good few years. Head racing, paranoia, manic one minute, crashing lows 30 minutes later. Physically tired but mentally done in. Everything, and I mean everything I couldn't give a flying **** about. My bipolar has hit me like a train and out of nowhere. I can usually see the signs and put things in place but this episode has just done me. Today is the first time I've felt slightly better so decided to post. I know this is something I have to deal with for life and have accepted that, but it's ***** at the time. It's wearing on my family who are amazing in dealing with me. Days just now feel like weeks. Tomorrows another day so hopefully my moods level out a bit more. It's just so ****ing tiring.

That's a good sign, mate.

Accepting, even embracing it, and finding ways to manage it are much better than running away from it. As each episode comes, you'll become an expert in your condition.... you'll find ways to manage it.

[CropleyWasGod]

Our manager:-

http://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/our-region/edinburgh/hibs-boss-reveals-depression-battle-to-tackle-stigma-1-4175324

[AngusHibby]

First time I've read this thread, great to discuss these things with fellow Hibees. I've tried forums before, but have always felt too much of a distance between me and other contributors. Reading through these messages have given me a boost though.

I've suffered with severe anxiety for a couple years now, along with a delightful side of depression. The first few months were hell on earth, the anxiety literally crippled me, I couldn't do anything without feeling like I was buzzing (in a bad way) from head to toe.

The main problem I suffered with was health anxiety. Despite being a healthy 20 year old at the time, I was convinced I was about to suffer from a stroke, have a heart attack, have an epileptic fit, you name it. It was ridiculous, if I felt tired I thought I was suffering from narcolepsy and was about to fall asleep on the spot, If I couldn't sleep straight away that was insomnia and if I ever felt happy, I was losing my mind. Looking back I can laugh at these things, but at the time it all felt real.

Anyhow, here's a list of stuff that's helped me over the past couple of years:


Exercise: It works. Just get out and run, swim or whatever you fancy if you can. Before depression and anxiety I was a lazy *******, now I've ran half marathons, climbed umpteen munros and trekked around some of the biggest mountains in the world. This also shows that despite the *****ness that comes with depression and anxiety it can have its positives, I'd have never done that stuff before it all happened.
Yoga: every time without fail helps me to calm down when my anxiety is boiling over. Sign up for a class, or if money's an issue have a look on Youtube for a step by step guide.
Counselling: Helped me understand why I was feeling the way I feel, by looking back to my childhood I could better understand my illness and knowing your enemy can go some way to helping you battle both depression and anxiety. Don't settle for a counsellor you don't like, change them until you're happy.
Socialise: This is one I still struggle with. You can convince yourself that you'll be no fun to be around, but being around friends and family can go someway to cheering yourself up or at least forgetting about the problems you're having. If you trust them enough, let them know about your problems, they might not fully understand them, but they will support you. Also try and find ways to socialise that don't involve drinking (I like rock climbing and hillwalking!). I know it can be hard to force yourself to go and meet friends, but just do it.
CBT: I'm trying CBT for a second time and after about three sessions its helping. It wasn't as good the first time because the doctor was inexperienced and nearly as nervous as me so I struggled to buy into the whole thing, change your doctor if you find this is the case! I feel that CBT will probably be the key to me beating the anxiety and depression.
Meds: I'm 3 weeks into a 6 month course of Escitalopram and can't really comment on its benefits. The first couple weeks are rocky, but the majority of the side effects pass after a couple weeks. I struggled with sleepless nights, but helped combat this by exercising more during the day. Also i'm with a doctor who I feel I can trust and who is tracking my progress, make sure you are with a doctor who can point you in the right direction if things get too difficult.
Stress Control course: 6 week course that explained anxiety and depression and how to combat it, have a read about that here: http://www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/Services/A-Z/StressControl/Pages/default.aspx This went a long way to normalising the problems I was suffering. Seeing the variety of people at the course will show you how widespread the illnesses can be.
Talk to someone: Talk to family, friends, doctor's or counsellors. You're probably not going to be able to think your way out of these problems all alone so build a network of people who can help you. I've also used Samaritans several times and can say I've felt a hell of a lot better after every phone call. 116 123.
David Gray's goal: Give it a watch and it's bound to bring a smile to your face :wink:


Hope this advice helps 1 or 2 folks and if not it's helped me just by talking about it all. I might post in a couple months to say how the Escitalopram's going... Have a nice day folks.

[Scorrie]

Would fully agree with Angus Hibby's post. I suffered from depression for years, probably longer than I thought. Eventually had to go to GP and was put on a counselling course. The pure relief in actually saying "I have depression" was unbelievable. Being able to talk to a counsellor was tough but did help a lot; I couldn't have fought depression without it. Exercise is a really good idea, even just a brisk walk in fresh air. To combat the stress, I have taken up Pilates and yoga a bit and that helps as it helps with breathing and calming down. I still get depression but through the counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy which the counsellor used, I have the tools to try and deal with it.

Hope this helps as well. Just really glad that depression is being openly discussed now. I lost a good friend to suicide earlier this year and for men it's tough to talk but you have to try and seeing your GP is a start. Well done to Neil Lennon for his efforts in all this as well

[lord bunberry]

First time I've read this thread, great to discuss these things with fellow Hibees. I've tried forums before, but have always felt too much of a distance between me and other contributors. Reading through these messages have given me a boost though.

I've suffered with severe anxiety for a couple years now, along with a delightful side of depression. The first few months were hell on earth, the anxiety literally crippled me, I couldn't do anything without feeling like I was buzzing (in a bad way) from head to toe.

The main problem I suffered with was health anxiety. Despite being a healthy 20 year old at the time, I was convinced I was about to suffer from a stroke, have a heart attack, have an epileptic fit, you name it. It was ridiculous, if I felt tired I thought I was suffering from narcolepsy and was about to fall asleep on the spot, If I couldn't sleep straight away that was insomnia and if I ever felt happy, I was losing my mind. Looking back I can laugh at these things, but at the time it all felt real.

Anyhow, here's a list of stuff that's helped me over the past couple of years:


Exercise: It works. Just get out and run, swim or whatever you fancy if you can. Before depression and anxiety I was a lazy *******, now I've ran half marathons, climbed umpteen munros and trekked around some of the biggest mountains in the world. This also shows that despite the *****ness that comes with depression and anxiety it can have its positives, I'd have never done that stuff before it all happened.
Yoga: every time without fail helps me to calm down when my anxiety is boiling over. Sign up for a class, or if money's an issue have a look on Youtube for a step by step guide.
Counselling: Helped me understand why I was feeling the way I feel, by looking back to my childhood I could better understand my illness and knowing your enemy can go some way to helping you battle both depression and anxiety. Don't settle for a counsellor you don't like, change them until you're happy.
Socialise: This is one I still struggle with. You can convince yourself that you'll be no fun to be around, but being around friends and family can go someway to cheering yourself up or at least forgetting about the problems you're having. If you trust them enough, let them know about your problems, they might not fully understand them, but they will support you. Also try and find ways to socialise that don't involve drinking (I like rock climbing and hillwalking!). I know it can be hard to force yourself to go and meet friends, but just do it.
CBT: I'm trying CBT for a second time and after about three sessions its helping. It wasn't as good the first time because the doctor was inexperienced and nearly as nervous as me so I struggled to buy into the whole thing, change your doctor if you find this is the case! I feel that CBT will probably be the key to me beating the anxiety and depression.
Meds: I'm 3 weeks into a 6 month course of Escitalopram and can't really comment on its benefits. The first couple weeks are rocky, but the majority of the side effects pass after a couple weeks. I struggled with sleepless nights, but helped combat this by exercising more during the day. Also i'm with a doctor who I feel I can trust and who is tracking my progress, make sure you are with a doctor who can point you in the right direction if things get too difficult.
Stress Control course: 6 week course that explained anxiety and depression and how to combat it, have a read about that here: http://www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/Services/A-Z/StressControl/Pages/default.aspx This went a long way to normalising the problems I was suffering. Seeing the variety of people at the course will show you how widespread the illnesses can be.
Talk to someone: Talk to family, friends, doctor's or counsellors. You're probably not going to be able to think your way out of these problems all alone so build a network of people who can help you. I've also used Samaritans several times and can say I've felt a hell of a lot better after every phone call. 116 123.
David Gray's goal: Give it a watch and it's bound to bring a smile to your face :wink:


Hope this advice helps 1 or 2 folks and if not it's helped me just by talking about it all. I might post in a couple months to say how the Escitalopram's going... Have a nice day folks.

It's interesting that you mention the socialising aspect. I'm the absolute opposite of what you describe. I'm the guy that's considered the life and soul of the party(so to speak). That's one of the hardest things I have to deal with. Going out on a night out is always great at the time, but invariably I feel the most depressed the next few days after. I tend to over analyse what happened and see things in a different context to what others do. Recently I've avoided going on nights out, but that brings its own problems. I drove to the cup final and went home after we'd won, but I had the nagging feeling that I was letting my mates down by not being with them. It all sounds really pathetic and trivial as I type it now, but it's the reality for me at the moment.

[AngusHibby]

It's interesting that you mention the socialising aspect. I'm the absolute opposite of what you describe. I'm the guy that's considered the life and soul of the party(so to speak). That's one of the hardest things I have to deal with. Going out on a night out is always great at the time, but invariably I feel the most depressed the next few days after. I tend to over analyse what happened and see things in a different context to what others do. Recently I've avoided going on nights out, but that brings its own problems. I drove to the cup final and went home after we'd won, but I had the nagging feeling that I was letting my mates down by not being with them. It all sounds really pathetic and trivial as I type it now, but it's the reality for me at the moment.

The night out one's tricky. I still go out, just drink less if at all. I was worried what my friends would say about me quitting drink for a while, but they all just accepted it and didn't interrogate me about it like I was expecting. The CBT is helping me to break paranoid thought patterns about letting everyone down or pissing everyone off, amongst other things. If your pals are good pals which I'm sure they are they won't be pissed off with you

[wpj]

The night out one's tricky. I still go out, just drink less if at all. I was worried what my friends would say about me quitting drink for a while, but they all just accepted it and didn't interrogate me about it like I was expecting. The CBT is helping me to break paranoid thought patterns about letting everyone down or pissing everyone off, amongst other things. If your pals are good pals which I'm sure they are they won't be pissed off with you

Followed this thread for a long time. I am going through a very tough time and have been signed off work for a month. Have a couple of appointments this week and also am giving up drink for a while. Feeling better finally telling people including this thread. Got a 1430 appointment am really nervous abou. Hopefully be ok. Anxiety is a b!tch

[CropleyWasGod]

Followed this thread for a long time. I am going through a very tough time and have been signed off work for a month. Have a couple of appointments this week and also am giving up drink for a while. Feeling better finally telling people including this thread. Got a 1430 appointment am really nervous abou. Hopefully be ok. Anxiety is a b!tch

Everybody's different, but I rarely touch alcohol now. When I do, even a couple of glasses put me on a downer for a couple of days. And I don't miss it.

Let us know how you get on :agree:

[wpj]

Survived it! Only thing was it was a group which i struggled with as i am not one for talking in groups. Have a 121 later this w3ek. Thanks

[Mikey09]

Survived it! Only thing was it was a group which i struggled with as i am not one for talking in groups. Have a 121 later this w3ek. Thanks


In all honesty some people get a lot out of sitting in a group session. I went once a week for 3 months before I even spoke mate. But I related to so much others were saying and took a lot from them. It was a wake up call that I wasn't the only one going through that and others were so kind and patient because they know what you're going through. Don't be afraid of it... It can be better than one to ones sometimes. Stick in...

[Edson Arantes]

Survived it! Only thing was it was a group which i struggled with as i am not one for talking in groups. Have a 121 later this w3ek. Thanks


Have been following this for quite a while now.

Well done mate - all the best to you. :thumbsup:

[wpj]

Have been following wing this for quite a while now.

Well done mate - all the best to you. :thumbsup:

Thanks, having a mare at the mo but being able to talk about it is helping. Most folk know its an illness but there are always those that dont get it. I work in the health setting and am amazed at how little understanding there can be from some.

[CropleyWasGod]

Thanks, having a mare at the mo but being able to talk about it is helping. Most folk know its an illness but there are always those that dont get it. I work in the health setting and am amazed at how little understanding there can be from some.

Stigma can be a real struggle to deal with, particularly for and among people of our generation. But threads like this can help to break it down.

And, in areas like this, young people are brilliant. We can learn a lot from them about tolerance and reducing stigma and judgmentalism.

[GreenLake]

I read a fair bit recently that magnesium deficiency can cause depression among a lot of other undesirable symptoms.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16542786

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/evolutionary-psychiatry/201106/magnesium-and-the-brain-the-original-chill-pill

I am not suggesting the above are credible sources so do your own investigation.

I remember taking milk of magnesia as a kid and often think there is something in age old remedies.

[WeAreHibs]

Just wanted to post a message of positivity to those that read this thread who have suffered or are suffering. I've had a couple of spells and still on fluoxitine that I take as a daily dose just to keep me level.

I wanted to share this to give those currently suffering a little bit of comfort.

I recently separated from my wife having found out that she'd been seeing someone else. I spoke to my doctor who suggested that I could double my dose of I felt the need. I've actually felt an inner strength I never knew I had. My focus is on my little boy, nearly 3yrs, and my own health, mainly weight. I've joined a fitness class, where I'm the only guy in a class with 57 ladies, and have met some great people who are really encouraging and caring. They've taken me under their wing and now going to Slimming World with a few of them. I've not felt the need to increase my dose and feeling really positive about the future and a life without the strains and pressure that married life created. I wouldn't wish the cause on anyone though as that was horrific and still has moments of upset.

I'm getting my first tattoo on Wednesday which incorporates a semicolon, check out "semicolon project".

We all deal with things differently and sharing my experience helps me loads. I've never been more proud of myself, felt so much support or had the amount of belief in myself despite having the worst experience I could imagine.

Keep believing, be strong and share your feelings. People want to help and will help you through!

Peace and good wishes!

[Betty Boop]

Just wanted to post a message of positivity to those that read this thread who have suffered are are suffering. I've had a couple of spells and still on fluoxitine that I take as a Daily Dose just to keep me level.

I wanted to share this to give those currently suffering a little bit of comfort.

I recently separated from my wife having found out that she'd been seeing someone else. I spoke to my Doctor Who suggested that I could double my dose of I felt the need. I've actually felt an inner strength I never knew I had. My focus is on my little boy, nearly 3yrs, and my own health, mainly weight. I've joined a fitness class, where I'm the only guy ina class with 57 ladies, and have met some great people who are really enjoying and caring. They've taken me under their wing and now going to Slimming World with a few of them. I've not felt the need to increase my dose and feeling really positive about the future and a life without the strains and pressure that married life created. I wouldn't wish the cause on anyone though as that was horrific and still has moments of upset.

I'm getting my first tattoo on Wednesday which incorporates a semicolon, check out "semicolon project".

We all deal with things differently and sharing my experience helps me loads. I've never been more proud of myself, felt so much support or had the amount of belief in myself despite having the worst experience I could imagine.

Keep believing, be strong and share your feelings. People want to help and will help you through!

Peace and good wishes!

Love this post, best wishes to you and your wee one.

[WeAreHibs]

Love this post, best wishes to you and your wee one.

Thank you! I hope my story can give a little bit of strength or help to someone!

[Mikey09]

Just wanted to post a message of positivity to those that read this thread who have suffered or are suffering. I've had a couple of spells and still on fluoxitine that I take as a daily dose just to keep me level.

I wanted to share this to give those currently suffering a little bit of comfort.

I recently separated from my wife having found out that she'd been seeing someone else. I spoke to my doctor who suggested that I could double my dose of I felt the need. I've actually felt an inner strength I never knew I had. My focus is on my little boy, nearly 3yrs, and my own health, mainly weight. I've joined a fitness class, where I'm the only guy in a class with 57 ladies, and have met some great people who are really encouraging and caring. They've taken me under their wing and now going to Slimming World with a few of them. I've not felt the need to increase my dose and feeling really positive about the future and a life without the strains and pressure that married life created. I wouldn't wish the cause on anyone though as that was horrific and still has moments of upset.

I'm getting my first tattoo on Wednesday which incorporates a semicolon, check out "semicolon project".

We all deal with things differently and sharing my experience helps me loads. I've never been more proud of myself, felt so much support or had the amount of belief in myself despite having the worst experience I could imagine.

Keep believing, be strong and share your feelings. People want to help and will help you through!

Peace and good wishes!


Keep up the hard work through the tough moments... Good things come to good people.

[wpj]

Keep up the hard work through the tough moments... Good things come to good people.

Wee bump, would hate for this thread to disappear. Having a very torid time at the mo but am trying get on top of things. Work not being as supportive as I had hoped and other factors are also not helping. Need a wee break I think!

[CropleyWasGod]

Wee bump, would hate for this thread to disappear. Having a very torid time at the mo but am trying get on top of things. Work not being as supportive as I had hoped and other factors are also not helping. Need a wee break I think!

Sorry to hear that, mate.

On the subject of breaks, I always thought that a "wee break" might help. The problem was.... your problems are still in your head, no matter where you go. In fact, if you're not working, you don't have the luxury of work distracting you from them. So I just dived straight into work, which helped as a break in itself. If that makes sense...

This thread will likely come back to the fore, as the darker nights come in.

On that note....

Light boxes, anyone?

Hypnotherapy?

Meditation?

[Shore Thing]

Thanks to all who've been posting on this thread - some really helpful stuff. And good to know you're not alone...

I got a light box about 6 years ago (almost to the day) and would not be without it from Sept/Oct right through til March.

End of September every year without fail, my brain simply seizes up. I usually have 30 mins or more of lightbox use first thing in the morning, and sometimes more during the day, or evening if needed. After that I nearly resemble a normal, functioning human being! I can physically feel my brain starting to function during lightbox use. Without it I usually stay semi-zombie like all day...

I bought one of these 6 years ago and it's still going strong http://www.litebook.co.uk/litebook-elite.html - best £120 I've ever spent! (with a 30 day money back guarantee).

That model is now discontinued but they do others. This brand is good because they are portable.

From what I've read, it's the colour / wavelength of the light which is more important than brightness. Blue-ish white light is what's needed (around 450nM).

[Hibrandenburg]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=R8RpHgcdIEw&time_continue=1

Old army friend of mine who lost his daughter is severely troubled with depression following her death. This is one of the toughest guys I know and just goes to show that anybody can suffer. His efforts to combat it might appear extreme but he is an extreme kind of guy.

[Shore Thing]

I've been finding CBD oil very good for anxiety. Heard good things from other people who use it too.

You can either take pure oil orally, or use it in a vapouriser.

[CropleyWasGod]

Thanks to all who've been posting on this thread - some really helpful stuff. And good to know you're not alone...

I got a light box about 6 years ago (almost to the day) and would not be without it from Sept/Oct right through til March.

End of September every year without fail, my brain simply seizes up. I usually have 30 mins or more of lightbox use first thing in the morning, and sometimes more during the day, or evening if needed. After that I nearly resemble a normal, functioning human being! I can physically feel my brain starting to function during lightbox use. Without it I usually stay semi-zombie like all day...

I bought one of these 6 years ago and it's still going strong http://www.litebook.co.uk/litebook-elite.html - best £120 I've ever spent! (with a 30 day money back guarantee).

That model is now discontinued but they do others. This brand is good because they are portable.

From what I've read, it's the colour / wavelength of the light which is more important than brightness. Blue-ish white light is what's needed (around 450nM).

This is my winter chum.

I stick it on around the end of October, and have it on at work until the light outside fades. Wouldn't want to be without it.

http://www.sad-lighthire.co.uk/product/new-britebox-energise-light-therapy-s-a-d-light-box-lamp-/24

[Shore Thing]

Thanks for your earlier mention of 5-HTP by the way CWG.
It worked well for me on one particular day of brain freeze. Just took 1 and could feel the serotonin starting to get processed again.
Tried it again and it made me feel a bit edgy so gonna save that for emergencies.
I was glad to find out that there are non-prescription, fairly natural pills available though, as I've always hated the thought of going on to a course of prescribed medication.

[CropleyWasGod]

Thanks for your earlier mention of 5-HTP by the way CWG.
It worked well for me on one particular day of brain freeze. Just took 1 and could feel the serotonin starting to get processed again.
Tried it again and it made me feel a bit edgy so gonna save that for emergencies.
I was glad to find out that there are non-prescription, fairly natural pills available though, as I've always hated the thought of going on to a course of prescribed medication.

Cheers :aok:

Yeah, I have the same attitude towards it.... I can't take it for too long, otherwise I feel like I'm over-revving. Good to know it's there, though.

[wpj]

Sorry to hear that, mate.

On the subject of breaks, I always thought that a "wee break" might help. The problem was.... your problems are still in your head, no matter where you go. In fact, if you're not working, you don't have the luxury of work distracting you from them. So I just dived straight into work, which helped as a break in itself. If that makes sense...

This thread will likely come back to the fore, as the darker nights come in.

On that note....

Light boxes, anyone?

Hypnotherapy?

Meditation?

Thanks Crops, have tried to bury myself in work but just ended up getting more work and stressing about it. Anxiety is the worst in the wee small hours before getting up.

[CropleyWasGod]

On a related note, I'm in the middle of training to be a hypnotherapist. It's often used in the treatment of depression.
I'm still a novice, but if anyone fancies being a guinea-pig.....😉

Sent from my SM-A510F using Tapatalk

[barcahibs]

On a related note, I'm in the middle of training to be a hypnotherapist. It's often used in the treatment of depression.
I'm still a novice, but if anyone fancies being a guinea-pig.....😉

Sent from my SM-A510F using Tapatalk

I tried hypnotherapy when I was in my late teens in order to get me through a specific event. I think it sort of worked? I do remember it gave me a deep feeling of relaxation that lasted several days though. Definitely worth a wee try, even if it's just a placebo type effect.

Been ages since I posted on this thread but I read it regularly and it's great that it's still going.

I'm actually now working on a mental health pilot project which uses nature as a therapy for people "suffering from, or at risk of, mental health problems" - which is a great phrase, seeing as it just means "everybody"!

We use the NEF Five Ways to Wellbeing model combined with getting people outdoors into nature, spending time in amongst parks and greenspaces doing things like nature walks, wildlife ID, wildlife recording, photography, natural art, forest skills (making safe fires and shelters etc). The idea is we get people active, get them learning new skills, slowing down and taking notice of the life around them, connecting with a greenspace and the things that live in it and giving a little back by using their new skills and spreading the message.

There are loads of studies out there that show the Five Ways model works and even more studies that show how effective spending time with nature is on improving your mood (I totally credit "discovering" the outdoors with changing my life).

Keep an eye on this sort of thing, my project is only a pilot at the moment taking place with small groups in a specific geographical area, but there will likely be opportunities out there in your local area. This sort of model - and the whole "Natural Health Service" approach - is going to be a very big thing in the coming years, there's a lot of work going on around it.

As ever, talking about mental health and de-stigmatising it is the first step. As everyone on this thread knows, there is nothing wrong with admitting you have a mental health problem, we have to keep spreading that message.

[Future17]

Just to flag this up on this thread: http://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?315487-Official-Site-BE-PART-OF-OUR-TEAMTALK&p=4835896#post4835896

As posted on that thread, there appears to be a bit of a problem with the survey just now, but will hopefully be fixed soon.

[Future17]

Just to flag this up on this thread: http://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?315487-Official-Site-BE-PART-OF-OUR-TEAMTALK&p=4835896#post4835896

As posted on that thread, there appears to be a bit of a problem with the survey just now, but will hopefully be fixed soon.

Sorry, the survey works fine...it's just my eyes that don't! :greengrin

[Stranraer]

It's been ages since I've been on .net but coming back to this thread always helps. Things are finally on the up for me and my friend who has similar problems with depression and anxiety and risperidone was the answer for me.

Hoping to make my first Hibs game in a while in December too.

[CropleyWasGod]

I actually came back looking for this thread for this reason. I've been doing really well over the summer but it's usually around this time of year I start to feel myself became more anxious and down, and I start to isolate myself. I started martial arts around 18 months ago which has really turned my life around in a positive way. However I live about a 20min train journey and 15min walk away from my gym, and last year when the darker nights started coming I found it really difficult to keep going as often as I usually liked. This in turn made me withdraw and spend a lot of time alone which just compounded how miserable I was feeling. I know I have to be harder on myself, not in a bad way but just try to force myself to keep going even when I feel I don't want to, because I know I'll be glad after I've done it.

Do lightboxes really work? I've was swithering about it last year but never ended up buying one, but think it might be a good idea.
The light box works for me, but not for everyone. The light itself can make people a bit "manic ". If you know someone who has one, maybe borrow it and see how you get on?

Another thought, though. A lot of martial arts are linked to meditative practices. Might be worth checking out if there's any that complement yours. I meditate a bit, and particularly in the long evenings. 30 minutes or so, and I'm feeling balanced.

Sent from my SM-A510F using Tapatalk

[Shore Thing]

Lightbox definitely helps me this time of year.
Without it I find it very hard to get going, and become very reclusive.
I swear I'm not on commission, but these one's have a 60 day trial period (http://www.litebook.co.uk/litebook-advantage-led-sad-light.html), might be worth a shot before you commit to buying.
(You don't pay VAT either cos it's for a medical condition)

[wpj]

Decided I should search for a new job as the current one is not helping my stress and anxiety. Thing is I will most likely be taking a drop in wages and wonder the best way to say this without going into too much detail. I don't want to say less stress incase they think I think their job is easy. Anyone been in this situation?

[CropleyWasGod]

Decided I should search for a new job as the current one is not helping my stress and anxiety. Thing is I will most likely be taking a drop in wages and wonder the best way to say this without going into too much detail. I don't want to say less stress incase they think I think their job is easy. Anyone been in this situation?

Maybe a better way is to say you're looking for "something that better suits your talents and personality".

That's true, after all. :agree:

[wpj]

Maybe a better way is to say you're looking for "something that better suits your talents and personality".

That's true, after all. :agree:

Nicely worded, will incorporate that into any applications and interviews

[heidtheba]

I tried hypnotherapy when I was in my late teens in order to get me through a specific event. I think it sort of worked? I do remember it gave me a deep feeling of relaxation that lasted several days though. Definitely worth a wee try, even if it's just a placebo type effect.

Been ages since I posted on this thread but I read it regularly and it's great that it's still going.

I'm actually now working on a mental health pilot project which uses nature as a therapy for people "suffering from, or at risk of, mental health problems" - which is a great phrase, seeing as it just means "everybody"!

We use the NEF Five Ways to Wellbeing model combined with getting people outdoors into nature, spending time in amongst parks and greenspaces doing things like nature walks, wildlife ID, wildlife recording, photography, natural art, forest skills (making safe fires and shelters etc). The idea is we get people active, get them learning new skills, slowing down and taking notice of the life around them, connecting with a greenspace and the things that live in it and giving a little back by using their new skills and spreading the message.

There are loads of studies out there that show the Five Ways model works and even more studies that show how effective spending time with nature is on improving your mood (I totally credit "discovering" the outdoors with changing my life).

Keep an eye on this sort of thing, my project is only a pilot at the moment taking place with small groups in a specific geographical area, but there will likely be opportunities out there in your local area. This sort of model - and the whole "Natural Health Service" approach - is going to be a very big thing in the coming years, there's a lot of work going on around it.

As ever, talking about mental health and de-stigmatising it is the first step. As everyone on this thread knows, there is nothing wrong with admitting you have a mental health problem, we have to keep spreading that message.



I wonder if there's scope/interest to have a specific 'mental health' or even just 'stressful times' support forumy thread on here?


Sometimes it's easier to open up to strangers who you have a certain anonyimity with and this might be a very useful support mechanism for some.


Thoughts?

[CropleyWasGod]

I wonder if there's scope/interest to have a specific 'mental health' or even just 'stressful times' support forumy thread on here?


Sometimes it's easier to open up to strangers who you have a certain anonyimity with and this might be a very useful support mechanism for some.


Thoughts?
I'd be happy to contribute to that. But does this thread not fulfil the same function?

Sent from my SM-A510F using Tapatalk

[lord bunberry]

I wonder if there's scope/interest to have a specific 'mental health' or even just 'stressful times' support forumy thread on here?


Sometimes it's easier to open up to strangers who you have a certain anonyimity with and this might be a very useful support mechanism for some.


Thoughts?
I wouldn't be against it, but this thread has been great for me. I've been able to get things off my chest that I would never have said to people I know. I read this thread for a long time before I plucked up the courage to post.
I don't know if I've said it before, but thank you to all who have contributed to this thread.

[Just Alf]

I wouldn't be against it, but this thread has been great for me. I've been able to get things off my chest that I would never have said to people I know. I read this thread for a long time before I plucked up the courage to post.
I don't know if I've said it before, but thank you to all who have contributed to this thread.
Totally agree.... and a thank you from me also.

I'm in a very different place compared to a few years ago and this particular thread has been part of the difference

Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

[hibs#1]

I've been finding CBD oil very good for anxiety. Heard good things from other people who use it too.

You can either take pure oil orally, or use it in a vapouriser.


Where did you buy yours?I've had a look online and not very sure which ones are legit?

Ps it's also very nice to read this thread and see you guys all try to help each other out.

Having suffered from mild depression and anxiety at different points over the years it's good too read other people's experience's

I've found weightlifting,music and family have helped me out and although I wouldn't recommend it smoking but that's just me.

[heidtheba]

I suppose it does, but it might be easier to have different threads for different issues/posts/support so people can get support with any specific things.


Great to see that this thread is already doing that. Having it more specific might make it more 'searchable' so that people who don't want to post can have a better chance at finding what they want/need.

[MSK]

I suppose it does, but it might be easier to have different threads for different issues/posts/support so people can get support with any specific things.


Great to see that this thread is already doing that. Having it more specific might make it more 'searchable' so that people who don't want to post can have a better chance at finding what they want/need.I kinda agree with CWG, contributors to this thread have suffered various degrees of depression and anxiety and in many cases a reply has offered advice, or alternative treatments therapies or activities. For me, visiting this sole thread has encouraged me in many ways, not so much so the treatments, but the courage in that others have bravely opened up to post and share their experiences on a public forum.

This thread has been viewed many thousands of times, not just by contributors but also forum users passing by, some perhaps not having the courage to share but getting comfort in others experiences being shared here.

Well done all for having the courage to speak out on this thread and to others who have contributed. Hibees family class.

[wpj]

This thread has been a massive support for me too. There are other forums out there but I think as we all have Hibs in common it feels different somehow