Agree with this... just reading it has helped in the past.
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Can only echo others comments. Great thread and from the start of it, 4 years ago, to now it has been respectful, helpful and often touching. Best thread there has been on .net (perhaps with the exception of a few of the Scottish Cup ones!!)
Personally from where I was 5 or 6 years ago through this thread starting until now is like night and day. I'm feeling as good as I have in as long as I can remember and I genuinely believe this thread has played a big part in that. Thanks to all who have contributed. I'm sure many others have and will continue to be helped by your experiences.
This thread is fantastic. One idea that was floating around my crazy head was a fans meeting group with the aim to support anyone who wants to come along. I'm sure if we spoke to the club they would get involved. Maybe meet once a month, play a bit of footy and then chat afterwards. Could be held at the training centre. It's just a wee idea.
I went to Gamblers Annonymous and just sitting sharing experiences was a massive help. Listening to people you can relate to their stories. Something along these lines would be a wonderful start. I'm not great at organising but would certainly be up for doing my bit. As I said it's amazing just what listening and being listened to can do for people.
It's a fine idea. An hours kick about, 5 a side or whatever and then if people wanted a chat afterwards.
Even if all it was was a bit of a laugh with a football I think it would do wonders for some. If it's an idea you wanted to take further let me know as I'd be happy to help if I could.
I think thats the crux of the matter, certainly in my early experience of depression, being listened to, Im sure Im not alone in having experienced a situation where you feel isolated but want to speak, but the so called experts out there (GPs/Therapists) are simply happy just to throw you a few tabs and send you on your way.
We are all diferent I suppose and no doubt a few simply didnt have anyone to speak to or reach out to nor in fact want to. I hope at least due to this thread that people feel less isolated and know that they have the confidence and freedom to communicate and reach out to others on here.
Thread hijack.
Does Danny Braithwaite still get a game for Royston? He was more than capable at this level and almost broke into the league pyramid a few seasons ago.
I know him from his time at Harrow Borough and more recently Chesham.
BTW - I'll be at Harlow Town next week if you fancy a pint and a match.
I found a nootropic called Tianeptine effectively eliminated all my symptoms of anxiety/OCD. Pretty extraordinary. Unfortunately it's just been banned in the past few months due to the new law regarding legal highs.
There's a focus group on Tuesday at ER , in conjunction with SAMH. Not sure what the format is, but maybe something social might come out of that?
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That's a cracking idea.
I crash and burn most Novembers and every single time the eventual emergence from the deep dark hole is fuelled by remembering and doing the very simple formula: eat, sleep, move. When your demons are out of their cages the first thing they attack is proper nutrition, decent sleep and regular exercise at whatever level you can manage. So a game and company is better than a prescription in my view.
My Dad died at the end of October and was buried two weeks ago. Weirdly that doesn't seem to have tipped me over this November somehow.
Not meaning to be insensitive but if the club agreed to something like this it would be gagging to be called The Mental Hibees would it not?
It might not be it's own 'forum', but would people use a 'Group' if it was set up?
We already have a name for it clearly! :greengrin
I've been using 'CBD Brothers'- their blue edition oil. It's very good quality and all organic/ no chemicals used in production. Get it from their website or Amazon.
I've found it simply takes away my anxiety, which has then given me more head space to consciously deal with the depression that comes from time to time.
Just coming out of a dark few weeks like most on here been suffering in silence for years. I took the plunge and visited the docs who I have to say was brilliant. The mere fact that he could understand a blubbering wreck was a bonus.
For the first time in my life I have gone on some medication and the difference already for me is fantastic.
Combined with ridiculous amounts of walking it is bringing me back to normality.
I was also told about a website which is free to visit and has help for all manner of problems for those who don't like the idea of talking in groups of even one to one. I will post the link later .
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Yes I too decided on the drastic move of leaving my job as I felt it was adding or maybe even causing my stress/ anxiety attacks.
Like you I guess I will need to take a drop in wages and try and find something different.
Need to change my Cv but I'm thinking employers are going to say why is he applying for this type of job?
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I started a new job and absolutely hate it, having a terrible boss as well does not help. It's all I think about, even my kids have noticed a difference in me. I need to work to pay the bills but have some savings and seriously considering quitting and using my savings until I find something else.
It's not an easy decision especially if your the main wage and at this time of year.
However your health and wellbeing are the most important things.
Could you go off on the sick and still get paid?
It's not something I would advocate but so close to Xmas it might just get you through till you find something.
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I am looking for a new job but am also worried that I will be asked why I am quitting this one without going into details. I have coped well with my career despite starting late on but the job I have now is really getting me down. Thing is i know i can do a good job with something I like, I have a good track record up until now
Its a tad extreme but, if you have already been to the doctors see if you can get signed off with stress (if you get paid sick leave) to get you through the festive season.
Yes I will take it day by day now, but it's hard and feel I can't relax at night as I am already dreading going in next day.
Christmas is coming so get that over with and see how it goes.
I also spoke to someone in my team today who said they found it really tough at first as well but it got better.
I posted early this year about my health anxiety, been in a pretty good place for the last few months other than problems with my neck and shoulders.
it must be the dark nights as I can feel it creeping up on me again starting to feel a bit edgy and my neck/back pain is really playing on my mind again.
determined not to let it ruin another Christmas.
Sometimes.... knowing that you normally feel crap at this time of the year is a good weapon to have. That feeling of "ahhhh, it's November. I normally take a dip round about now. I made it through last year, and all the other years, so I will make it through this year".
It's when it hits you for the first or second time, when you don't know what the F is going on, that it can be really scary.
Wee bump for this thread, not because it is apparently the most depressive day of the year, (I am sure sufferers will be more than aware of their own triggers) but because it hasn’t been on page 1 of the board for a while. Hope everyone is doing ok :agree: :aok:
I'm doing great but that's with the help of my happy pills Citalopram I have actually never felt this good for 10 years.
I'm on them till March and to be frank would happily take them forever the way I feel.
Not one anxiety attack for the last two months since I started on them.😀
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I have been succesful in finding a new job, the first one I interviewed for so hoping that will help with my work life balance. Less money but if I am happier you can't put a price on that!
I'm at a pretty low trough just now - I keep experiencing crippling bouts of anxiety (out of nowhere, and with no obvious triggers) in the most random of places - found myself sitting under my desk at work the other day, just to be in a really confined spot away from everything (I have my own, private office).
Life is generally stressful at the minute - I'm not 100% content at work (and I've pretty much decided I can't be an academic, though I have no solid plan B, which horrifies me); I have a wee one on the way in April (our first); I can feel myself pushing friends away (and justifying it in my head) and I feel happiest when I'm on my own at the moment, away from people.
I don't really want to go through another visit to the doctor's, as I get waves like this, but I've tried my normal 'cures' of running, writing etc and very little is helping.
Like u i tried everything but nothing worked I was just on a downward spiral.
I did not want to try drugs but I did and it has helped me more than I ever thought.
If you can't find another route don't give up on visiting your doctor
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Sorry to hear that, I am a new parent, well she's 18 months now and I'm an old(er) dad at 50, while I feel guilty about being unhappy I can guarantee it is the most amazing experience. There are no rules to depression or anxiety. I go for major long walks every weekend with my wee girl and have started swimming with her again. It has helped me loads. Hope it does for you too, it ain't easy being a dad but it's so rewarding
hi all, i was interested to read about peoples depression and anxiety due to being stuck in a job they hated. I was in the same position a few months ago- stuck in a real rut and just counting the days to the weekend and then dreading Monday morning. It got to the stage where i just had to quit for my sanity-ive had mild depression for ages and I felt i was slowly getting worse. I was fortunate enough to be in a situation where i could do that.
I took some time off, did lots of voluntary work and shortly i start a completely different job, less well paid but one i think is better suited to my talents and I am looking forward to it...an alien feeling for me!
Anyway, if anyone wants some encouragement or help to make that change, i would recommend it and Im happy to help
Our manager's thoughts on his own depression:-
Lennon is a complex fellow. While he uses the words “quiet” and “mellow” to describe his life today, bouts of depression still re-occur. “There have been sporadic episodes. As you get older they can be quite severe. The consolation is they’re not as prolonged as the first ones when I didn’t know what was happening. I’ve never got to the point where I’ve wanted to end it all but the episodes aren’t pleasant. Once out of them the world is definitely a better place.” What’s his coping mechanism? “Simplifying life. No alcohol, plenty of exercise, a bit of meditation. In that you learn to stay in the moment rather than look behind or ahead. Fifteen minutes of deep breathing and I can focus on myself and nobody and nothing else, which can be difficult if you’re a football manager.”
Read more at: http://www.scotsman.com/sport/footba...-bid-1-4350987
I admire him for speaking out about his depression, but as everyone on this thread will know depression is different for each and every one of us. I also have never got to the point where I've wanted to end it all, but if I'm being honest it's a thought that occurs to me on a daily basis. When I feel down I sometimes look for the easiest way out. Then I remember that I've got a loving family that I want to see when I get home.
Very true indeed. There are any number of individualistic reasons for becoming depressed or for suffering from anxiety. For a good number of years now the most vulnerable group for committing suicide are males reaching 40 and 50 so I'm led to believe. There's no easy one solution answer but to hear folk in the public domain publicly admitting they too suffer from mental health issues is helpful as it shows no matter how successful a person is or how much money they may have it does not prevent them from suffering such issues. A sufferer should try to get help even if its just talking to someone who will listen in an empathetic way.
Glory Glory
After years of stress and anxiety coupled with SAD I chucked everything and moved to Spain.
Free from worrying about material goods, work and cold dark winters i was transformed. I live cheaply and mostly happily.I actually found a completely different person inside me.
Not for most people i know. But i jumped and 10 years later have no regrets.
Bump, any chance this could be merged with thee other one please Admins?, lots of good advice and support here.
Thanks
a very very intresting and helpful thread, though i ve not managed to read every post i have found comfort in knowing i am not the only one whom seems to be suffering from depression.
In my case , i found it hard to explain to people that feeling of darkness- i guess the nothing-like a lack of feeling anything but unhappy feelings.
Like a few people work is an issue and with my work, the lack of help was-is so damn frustrating.I had depression a couple of years ago and well got signed off from work, went back everythign seemed ok, not great but my mood had inproved to like a 5 outta 10 , way better than a 1 out of 10
In the last few months, before xmas i suddenly got those old feelings back,i am unsure if they ever went away or if i had tried to remain upbeat-postive or what the heck was going on(again i find it hard to explain things) but these feelings of darkness- worthlessness, no hope suddenly came flooding back and at one time(xmas is a tough time as it is)
With work- just the lack of help from my managers which really really made me feel even worse,I can see my job being realitively easy but with my mood,well being-health- the work seemed so hard-so tough- i guess it looked like i was so unable to do the jobs the manager asked.I did ask for help and if they could give me lighter duties for a little while and there response -"unless you have spoken to atos or get a line from your gp what can i do?" was the jest of it, which in turn made me feel so much worse.
another thing that sorta got to me in regard work is courses that may help me, but being *woman only* sorta made me fall deeper into a dark hole
I ,like many on the thread have tried to get into a routine of excersising, though finding it a little bit of a struggle getting into that routine,I however am determined to try fight this but starting off by walking round the block, slowly building it up every week, and hopefully, with better eating habits hopefully i can run a bit and inprove my stamina there!
thanks for reading and all the best to everyone !!:agree:
Work can be an issue as I have mentioned in previous posts. I am lucky in that I have changed jobs recently as my previous job was awful. Time will tell how this one goes but I'm glad to be out.
Exercise is good but the motivation can be difficult. Starting to do yoga and meditation again after a long time out, due to health reasons I am unable to do strenuous exercise so these are good options. All the best to you
Great to see so many people showing that this isn't something that 'only you/I' have. I've had elements of clinical depression due to migraine headaches and suffer from increasing anxiety due to the almost constant painkillers I'm on. Throw in a job I love, but a career that has been hit due to the migraines and a work environment that I find especially difficult and I've struggled these past years.
I recently took a 'gap' year but it's not helped as much as I hoped. I'm now feeling even more marginalised at work and trying to focus on my issues has just made me feel even more helpless.
At times anyway...
ANyhoo, this isn't a moan just a 'I've been there' and, at times, I come out of it.
I've just ordered Damon Hill's new autobiography. Read an excerpt from it today and it's far more than a racing car story. Lots of mental health and depression issues and trying to live in the shadow of his father. Reading parts of it made me so appreciative that people out there, especially blokes, can open up and talk about it.
Makes such a diff.
Thanks all
I'm not a fan of the Royals, but fair play to William and Harry for coming out the way they have.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-39625897
Wonderful as this thread is, and while it may be an example of stigma easing, stigma is still a big issue. This medium is anonymous to a great extent, and gives people an opportunity to speak about their issues without necessarily outing themselves. However, would they do the same publicly? And how many people read this thread without feeling the confidence to contribute?
I have little problem talking about my issues in public, indeed have presented talks about them. But I know through that, that I am absolutely in the minority in that respect.
That is why I made my point about the Princes speaking up. Yes, you're right that they would get help more easily than the general public, but they had to want that help and voice that need.... that is their worth in this debate. To encourage people to find their voice.
You're also right about general access to services being very difficult, but we're a long way from being able to say that stigma is less of an issue than access.
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I was doing a talk the other night and before me was a guy going through depression who was brace enough to tell his tale. What really struck me was the amount of question he got. Not around people's own experience of depressive thinking but around how to approach it with friends. You could sense a genuine fear in making things worse. I do think education on how to be there for someone could help.
Most of the focus seems to be on solutions. Obviously we're all different so what works for me might not for another. We can all learn to just listen and be there for someone without fear. Just seems so many want to but aren't sure how to.
Speaking from a personal point of view I certainly still sense a stigma. This thread has been great as it affords a relative anonymity (despite the fact I've met numerous people on it in the last 2 or 3 years). It's still a subject I'm wary of mentioning in company (in person) and I'll never speak up if someone makes a joke about mental illness for fear of being 'mocked'.
Tbh I'm having a bit of a wobble at the moment. I'm going to be a Dad for the 1st time in August. Whilst I'm absolutely delighted and it's hugely exciting it has been stressful and I'm feeling it. We have just moved house and I've loved where we have been for the best part of the last 5 years. It's coincided with the best state I've been in mentally in a decade or more and I quite literally burst into tears when I handed the keys over. I know the improvement in my mind goes a lot deeper than a house but all the same.... Unfortunately when I have a bad time it tends to manifest itself in me being increasingly argumentative which means I withdraw so as not to piss people off and it turns into a bit of a circle. Got a few days on my own as my girlfriend is away on holiday so trying to settle in to the new house slowly and planning to enjoy Saturday. On the plus side such a downturn would have turned into a total meltdown 7 or 8 years ago whereas now it's manageable if annoying.
Stick in there lad. Life is never easy and it sounds as if you've a lot to keep strong for. At least you've taken steps to recognise the triggers and try to avoid folk seeing the manifestations of when you're feeling it the most. Keep up the good work.
glory glory
To say there's no stigma attached to mental health is ridiculous. There's no doubt things are better than they were, but there's no way I'd casually mention my depression in general conversation.
In my line of work in the taxi I get loads of people telling me about physical conditions they have or have had, but I can't recall anyone ever talking about their mental health.
I do, I am comfortable speaking to people about my depression, obviously if the subject is broached. I totally understand why people dont want to discuss it but I feel in a way its a release, not only for me but for others to hear about my experience, my confidence & willingness to be open & honest about the subject.
My friends & family saw the before, during & now the after, of my depression, they saw me at my lowest ebb and they see me now, they ask so many questions of which Im only too happy to answer. I see it as raising awareness, promoting confidence & self esteem. I dont feel ashamed or embarrassed, sometimes on reflection I think about some of my behaviours or actions & have a laugh about them, ironically, people laughing with me as opposed to laughing at me was medicine in its own right.
The point I was making is that people with physical conditions are far more likely to volunteer info about their conditions than people with mental health problems. I get people giving me their life history at times, but no one ever mentions mental health issues.
Currently I am victim of (lack of) access to services having waited since my latest referral last August, not blaming the NHS as I am more than aware of the resources available. Last year a period of absence from work I felt my management were largely unsympathetic although to be fair there was some sympathy from a couple and more from colleagues, disappointing as I work in the health “industry” and we often have mental health awareness events.
I feel the high profile from the royals while not a fan or a hater has been really refreshing, I would really like it to be put into manifestos for the upcoming election. We have heard from successive governments the need to improve mental health provision but in reality there has been cuts.
The London Marathon is championing mental health tomorrow which is great but it needs more than banners at an event to improve both stigma and access.
I have to agree this thread has helped me immensely and although one or two posters do know me it has been mostly anonymous. I have revealed more about my mental health over the last 2-3 years than I ever had before which has helped me and hopefully others.
PB, I'm a new dad 20 months now at the age of 51, new job, new house and it has been really difficult given my mental health but!!! my wee girl has made me so happy, yes I still have issues but the time I spend with her is an absolute joy, I have even (whisper it) missed Hibs games on the telly (don’t live in Scotland) when looking after her. It’s a huge change but rewarding. This from a confirmed “I’ll never be a dad” person. Enjoy
I wouldn't casually discuss my mental health issues either, however I would be more than willing to discuss it if it was the topic of conversation. I respect we are all different however. What do you personally feel has to happen for the stigma to be eradicated?
It will happen eventually. We already have enough awareness projects going on, but it's just taking time for everyone to get on board. It's like everything that was once considered a bit of a taboo subject that is now completely accepted in everyday life. In time mental health will be seen as the same as physical conditions and treated the same.
Thanks.
I'm very excited about being a Dad and whilst it was a surprise it's a welcome and pleasant one.
I just don't deal particularly well with change at times and leaving somewhere I have been largely stable and happy for 5 years is difficult for me. I'll be fine in a few weeks once my ****ed up brain processes the fact that everything isn't going to fall apart because I've moved 3 miles.
Has anyone used Hypnotherapy?
The reason i ask is that I have just qualified as a Hypnotherapist. The results I've had with my case-study clients with depression and anxiety have been very encouraging.
(Note for admins. This is not an advert :greengrin)
I know it can help, although I think solely using it points people in the wrong direction (In my opinion). I used to use hypnosis with clients, I would also have used NLP which can be effective but I've moved away from using these approaches soley especially when dealing with anxiety (I work one to one as well as speaking a on the subject for the HSE in Ireland & at festivals etc).
You can't control the thoughts that pop into your head, it's impossible. Same going with the emotions we have. You can educate people to have a better relationship with the thoughts and emotions so they are no longer the problem they were. Thats the move I have made with my clients, helping them see that they don't need 'fixed' as theres nothing really broken. As soon as my clients start to see the inside out way of experience a lot of mind made problems melt away for them rather than them having to do something. A lot of people, understandibly, are looking for a quick fix. If thats their approach then theres always going to be fixes required.
So yes hypnosis can make changes very quickly & easily but I think it needs to be done in conjunction with some education on the nature of thought. Helping clients have more present moment awareness can help them see where there experience is coming from. Giving them choice on what thoughts to go with and what to allow to move so they dont become a problem any more.
Gotcha.
As I say, I've just qualified as a hypnotherapist. I did the training purely out of intrigue and my own depression history. However, I loved it so much that I am now thinking about setting up my own practice.
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cool if you ever fancy a chat about it just let me know. It is very interesting and VERY rewarding. If i had one wee tip when starting out it would be make sure and niche your offering. I started out doing it as an interest when i was back home in Musselburgh. Last 3 years it's been my full time profession.
The course was a private one, run by the Clifton Practice ( based in Bristol, but the course was in Edinburgh). It's accredited by the HPC, the governing body for the UK.
I can't post links on my phone, but Google Clifton and that should point you in the right direction.
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Glad this thread's still on the go.
This caught my eye today so I thought I'd share it:
There is now a Men's Shed in Leith
Every Tuesday afternoon 2-5 at the Edinburgh Tool Library Workshop, Custom Lane. (behind Old Custom House) This is a welcoming community for all men, working together to improve men’s health and wellbeing. Whether you enjoy working with wood and metal, learning a new skill or simply having a wee blether you are welcome to come along.
The Men of Leith Men's Shed is an authentic men's shed run by men for the benefit of men, a community for all men, working together to improve men's health, connection and wellbeing.
"In short I feel more invigorated, more motivated, more active, healthier and indeed happier. Isn't that what a shed is about?"
Bill B
"I went from a life of meaningless TV, fridge and couch to enjoying making a real difference to my community."
Lou K
If you would like more information you can contact Charlie 07946843882 or Alan 07548206142
Registered Charity SC047004.
Supported by The City of Edinburgh and The Scottish Men's Shed Association.
Where?
The Men of Leith Men's Shed
Edinburgh Tool Library Workshop
The Custom Lane,( behind Old Custom House
65-67 Commercial Street,
Leith EH6 6LH
I joined the Tool Library recently and highly recommend them to anyone who likes to make things, fix things, or is even just interested in having a cup of tea and watching people do stuff. They're very welcoming to men AND women of all ages and abilities. I reckon it's helped give me a sense of purpose and possibilities, and I think that's helping with my own depression.
I honestly find that if the topic of mental health crops up at work etc, people tend to chat away quite openly with a lot of understanding. As I never hide the fact I suffer from bipolar disorder, if I mention it the tone changes. Not particularly in a bad way but a lot of people seem to get embarrassed for me. The best way I find of combatting this is to have a laugh and joke about myself. Don't get me wrong it's far from funny when I get battered with an episode, but hey, it tends to relax folk so is it wrong?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39788226
Thoughts with Aaron and his loved ones