Just briefly, I began suffering from depressive episodes after I left home and over time they gradually became mush worse. I eventually had a breakdown 12 years ago and was diagnosed in 2003. I take a combination of an antidepressant and a drug called Lithium but these do not keep me 100% stable. Currently I have ill for almost 10 months this time although I am starting to feel more myself today. It is not easy having a mental health condition because on the outside you can look perfectly well, not ill at all unless you're having a massive panic attack in the middle of a shop or you smell because you haven't had the wherewithall to shower for days on end. Yes that honestly has been me on occasions. It is not easy to talk about either. I can talk about it until the cows come home to people I know well but get me out doing volunteer work Time to Change and I clam up. People who know me, know that rarely happens.
What I would love today is that if you know someone, anyone, who had/has a mental health issue such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, agrophobia, postnatal depression, an eating disorder or any other issue related to mental health then please go call them, or hug them, kiss them, tell you love them. And see what happens. I will be doing exactly the same so please join me for just one day in making a difference to that person's life. You be doing a great thing.
Yep that is me at a year of age, my whole life in front of me. Not a care in the world. I wish I didn't have this disorder but I do and I want that little girl and others who may be like her to know she's actually ok.
You're more than "okay", you're wonderful and tremendous and amazing!
ReplyDeleteXX
I'd give you a hug if I could. I hope you know that :)
ReplyDeleteI've just come across this post, so a belated cyber hug from me too!..and I think you're amazingly brave!!
ReplyDeleteAlison xx