FabSwingers.com forum: Mental illness

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

OK, this post has been brought on by some recent threads and the fact that again someone I know took their own life Tuesday.

I have no qualifications in mental health but I have been around the block a few times and I hope this advice will be of some use.

Firstly, if you've never suffered mental health issues your not always sure where to turn.

IF you are feeling extremely ill, there are points of contact, they may not always be easy to find, but you can always phone the Samaritans, mind, your mental health services will have an out of hours number you can ring or you could ring a mental health unit and ask them for advice, there is also a crisis team.

If your in a position, make an appointment with your doctor, write down how you are feeling in advance, try and be as honest and straightforward as possible.

You may be prescribed medication, don't panic, this may possibly be short term, but research the medication, medication takes a few weeks to kick into your system so don't give up after a week, if your feeling know different or worse ask them a out alternative medication, lots of trial and error may be required.

When you go to your doctor you may be referred to a specialist, talking therapy, or councillor, these appointments may take time, talk to your doctor about coping methods until your appointments come through. Talking therapy is very big nowadays.

If your not happy with your doctor don't hesitate to change, younger doctors are taught more now during their training.

When your not well your easily confused, you may not have the energy or no how how to be firm, so take a friend or family member along for support, get them to write everything down. Check your local volunteer burea, if you don't have family and friends they may have a volunteer that can come with you.

Use your resources at work, a lot of companies have things in place for mental illness.

Mental illness is hard and scary and even worse if you don't have a clue where to turn.

Hope this helps someone

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *ucsparkMan
over a year ago

dudley

Sorry to hear that another life has gone that you know. Mental conditions can really be the silent killer at times.

Much love

Nucsparkxxx

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Omg so sorry for your loss

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

Thankyou, it it was more about people finding ways to get help

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *ucsparkMan
over a year ago

dudley

"Thankyou, it it was more about people finding ways to get help"

My mate who is bi polar always says the first step is admitting you need help

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Thankyou, it it was more about people finding ways to get help

My mate who is bi polar always says the first step is admitting you need help"
not being scared of the outcome if you admit it is a big hurdle

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *om and JennieCouple
over a year ago

Chams or Socials

My aunt took her own life 5 years ago. She was 3 years older than me & left 3 children.

My dad tried for years to get her help - she was sectioned God knows how many times!! - but resources are being constantly reduced & harder to access.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *ilberryMan
over a year ago

Scarborough

I am lucky totally mad, but it is a fact more than one in ten have serious problems during their lives, and society sweeps it under the carpet, well done OP

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"My aunt took her own life 5 years ago. She was 3 years older than me & left 3 children.

My dad tried for years to get her help - she was sectioned God knows how many times!! - but resources are being constantly reduced & harder to access.

"
I agree, it is harder, but knowing the places to go may save someone's life

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I've been dealing with horrible bouts of Depression for nearly 16 years now and it never ever gets easier. Sometimes all you need is someone to talk to, or even just a hug. If any of you need someone to talk to, no matter what time it is and no matter how tough things are, just talk and I will listen.

Remember, you are loved.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"I've been dealing with horrible bouts of Depression for nearly 16 years now and it never ever gets easier. Sometimes all you need is someone to talk to, or even just a hug. If any of you need someone to talk to, no matter what time it is and no matter how tough things are, just talk and I will listen.

Remember, you are loved."

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *ady4ladyWoman
over a year ago

liverpool

Its refreshing to come across a thread that is actually factful, gives great advice and.... offers non complicated hugs.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *eryBigGirlWoman
over a year ago

East Yorkshire

"My aunt took her own life 5 years ago. She was 3 years older than me & left 3 children.

My dad tried for years to get her help - she was sectioned God knows how many times!! - but resources are being constantly reduced & harder to access.

I agree, it is harder, but knowing the places to go may save someone's life "

And that's also sometimes the problem. I know of a young lady who is 16 and get having to be put in a unit across the other side of the country because there are no services here. It's great she's getting help but it's cutting her off from her mum, siblings and friends who are her ongoing long term support. It's shocking the lack of money that goes to mental health

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

The last time I needed help I rang my therapist who got the crisis team to get in touch with me. I was sobbing down the phone and all I got was 'have you finished crying yet?' I ended up in hospital and the crisis team there point blank told me it was my fault I'd overdosed as I'd not used the services I'd already been provided with, namely the crisis team helpline and that I'd not physically gone to my therapist appointment even though I'd spoken to my therapist on the phone. I knew I needed help and was a danger to myself but I was just sent home.

I honestly wouldn't know where to turn the next time I feel that bad

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondjoeMan
over a year ago

Glastonbury

Hi, sounds like a big old shit sandwich.

Just like to pick up a couple of points.

Mental health problems can affect around 1 in 4 people a year.

It's a lot bigger than you think. This ranges from depression and anxiety problems (the most common) to suicidal thoughts and full-blown episodes.

Accessing support for such services is becoming more difficult, with stretched statutory services taking only the 'most serious' cases. It's really tricky, and I don;t see it getting much better.

The most important factor, I think, in someone getting well again is a support of friends and family as much as services.

As a friend of mine who use to work in MH was wont to say: "We all have a touch of mental health, depends on how in touch you are with it."

Essentially, it's better to talk to someone - as a sufferer or someone who is concerned or helping someone.

Sorry to hear about your friend.

Info to follow...

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Hi, sounds like a big old shit sandwich.

Just like to pick up a couple of points.

Mental health problems can affect around 1 in 4 people a year.

It's a lot bigger than you think. This ranges from depression and anxiety problems (the most common) to suicidal thoughts and full-blown episodes.

Accessing support for such services is becoming more difficult, with stretched statutory services taking only the 'most serious' cases. It's really tricky, and I don;t see it getting much better.

The most important factor, I think, in someone getting well again is a support of friends and family as much as services.

As a friend of mine who use to work in MH was wont to say: "We all have a touch of mental health, depends on how in touch you are with it."

Essentially, it's better to talk to someone - as a sufferer or someone who is concerned or helping someone.

Sorry to hear about your friend.

Info to follow..."
this thread was to try and give advice, so I'm more than happy to hear your points of contact

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondjoeMan
over a year ago

Glastonbury

MIND is the best place to start, for my money, but that covers most categories, I hope.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *uby0000Woman
over a year ago

hertfordshire

frank Bruno has just gone back in with his bipolar hope he gets well soon sorry to hear about your loss

when my daughter got ill our gp was useless .. family therapy was useless and the crisis team were no help at all

mental health units are few and far between and not always local

staff are not trained enough either

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Thank you for this thread.

Sorry for the loss of your friend I hope they are in a better place now.

One thing to add as a mother never be scared to admit to your doctor that you are struggling. They are not ogers and a good doctor won't think badly off you in fact it will be quite the opposite.

God bless to everyone who struggles daily with their issues. X

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"MIND is the best place to start, for my money, but that covers most categories, I hope.

"
mind is also very good for family and friends of sufferers as well

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondjoeMan
over a year ago

Glastonbury

"frank Bruno has just gone back in with his bipolar hope he gets well soon sorry to hear about your loss

when my daughter got ill our gp was useless .. family therapy was useless and the crisis team were no help at all

mental health units are few and far between and not always local

staff are not trained enough either "

^ This

Is my problem & experience with MH services. You really have to fight to access services.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *uby0000Woman
over a year ago

hertfordshire

social services were the most help to us

also too keen to give antidepressants

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondjoeMan
over a year ago

Glastonbury

"You really have to fight to access services. "

And so sometimes it helps to have a non-statutory agency helping to advocate and access services with you.

They know the ins and outs and statutory obligations, as well as being able to advise the 'laymen'.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

"
I didn't realise he was back in hospital

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"You really have to fight to access services.

And so sometimes it helps to have a non-statutory agency helping to advocate and access services with you.

They know the ins and outs and statutory obligations, as well as being able to advise the 'laymen'."
you've done good o this thread, people don't know these things.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *uby0000Woman
over a year ago

hertfordshire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital"

fraid so lets hope he gets out soon the problem is people are scared to admit they are sick in case they get sectioned

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital"

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

"
oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

fraid so lets hope he gets out soon the problem is people are scared to admit they are sick in case they get sectioned"

Yes ! I was so scared to admit the things I did to my doctor cos I thought I'd lose my children but thankfully my doctor is very understanding. Not everyone is as lucky as me. X

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *uby0000Woman
over a year ago

hertfordshire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in"

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news "
I've just read it, he's in the best place

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news "

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

"
this thread has turned out really well I just don't want people to be scared

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *uby0000Woman
over a year ago

hertfordshire

its different with my daughter as she has Aspergers too but most people just want staff to show they care

I could tell you horrific things that happen in these places one woman stood up to the managers and got fired

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"its different with my daughter as she has Aspergers too but most people just want staff to show they care

I could tell you horrific things that happen in these places one woman stood up to the managers and got fired"
I've seen some terrible things in them, but one thing I will never forget, in was with a professional going round mental health units assessing them for safety fromma service users point of view and I was chatting to a lady in their whom thought I was a doctor, when unexplained who in was she held my hand and just said so you understand

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *uby0000Woman
over a year ago

hertfordshire

hopefully very soon my daughter is being moved to a step down hospital nearer home im so proud of her

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"hopefully very soon my daughter is being moved to a step down hospital nearer home im so proud of her"
yes and so you should be, its been a very long hard battle for you.

It's nine years since my last section and I don't plan on going back

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *uby0000Woman
over a year ago

hertfordshire

"hopefully very soon my daughter is being moved to a step down hospital nearer home im so proud of heryes and so you should be, its been a very long hard battle for you.

It's nine years since my last section and I don't plan on going back"

thanks shes been sectioned 5 years in January

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"hopefully very soon my daughter is being moved to a step down hospital nearer home im so proud of heryes and so you should be, its been a very long hard battle for you.

It's nine years since my last section and I don't plan on going back

thanks shes been sectioned 5 years in January "
I know its been a long time I remember when it first happened

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

this thread has turned out really well I just don't want people to be scared"

Just coming out of hiding to say I am really really scared. After saying ciao earlier this week I drove myself to a&e half an hour away, and asked to see the mental health crisis team as I had intrusive thoughts of killing myself for months and they were becoming uncontrollable. I have untreated bipolar II and after years of avoiding the nhs it has got to the point where the dark despairing Nell is much stronger than the rational Nell. I have been referred to be assessed which could take up to 28 days, and they said I could go home if I promised not to kill myself

I have gained more info from this thread than from the psychiatric nurse in a&e, who gave me 1 leaflet with a breathing excercise on it. Thanks so much for doing this.x

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

this thread has turned out really well I just don't want people to be scared

I have gained more info from this thread than from the psychiatric nurse in a&e, who gave me 1 leaflet with a breathing excercise on it. Thanks so much for doing this.x"
I am so happy I put this thread up, I'm so sorry you are in the situation you are, do you think you will make use of the organisations Joe put up?

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

this thread has turned out really well I just don't want people to be scared

I have gained more info from this thread than from the psychiatric nurse in a&e, who gave me 1 leaflet with a breathing excercise on it. Thanks so much for doing this.xI am so happy I put this thread up, I'm so sorry you are in the situation you are, do you think you will make use of the organisations Joe put up?"

Definitely. I'm going to start with Mind and the Bipolar one. Other fab friends have suggested a local mental health community hub for support too. Without people like you doing this I would never have known how to access any support at all.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *om and JennieCouple
over a year ago

Chams or Socials

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

this thread has turned out really well I just don't want people to be scared

Nell, I just read your post & cried. I'm so glad you went for help xxx Keep fighting xxx

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

this thread has turned out really well I just don't want people to be scared

I also use the bipolar foundation for alot of my information about bipolar in general, local support groups are very good we have one here and you will also get to talk to other bipolar sufferers as well, some may share the same symptoms as you, there are many types of bipolar, try and be as open and honest with exactly how it affects you.

Knowing your not alone and talking about it are two major things

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Had a post come up on my Facebook about big Frank Bruno and how his suffering with his bi polar. Have had family members suffer with depression. Hats off to anyone fighting it.

I didn't realise he was back in hospital

It was his agent saying Franks bipolar has kicked in again recently and his struggling with it. Don't think his been hospitalized over it

oh, it was ruby that said he was back in

he put himself back in hospital its in the news

Bless him, hope he get gets positive publicity and awareness for it

this thread has turned out really well I just don't want people to be scared

Knowing your not alone and talking about it are two major things"

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *oungladMan
over a year ago

Burnham

Not sure if it's been mentioned already but if you feel like that you simply can't make the time to go to therapy sessions or services. One of the newer services is online therapy and course. It's really good for therapy at your own pace and time and you get a moniter who you can call and make weekly check up phone calls with. I've found it really helpful. I'd also like to add that when you're depressed it's not your fault. You can find yourself in a hole and even though people are walking by you can't bring yourself to scream for help and that makes you sink deeper in the hole because you blame yourself. It takes courage to make the first cry.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Not sure if it's been mentioned already but if you feel like that you simply can't make the time to go to therapy sessions or services. One of the newer services is online therapy and course. It's really good for therapy at your own pace and time and you get a moniter who you can call and make weekly check up phone calls with. I've found it really helpful. I'd also like to add that when you're depressed it's not your fault. You can find yourself in a hole and even though people are walking by you can't bring yourself to scream for help and that makes you sink deeper in the hole because you blame yourself. It takes courage to make the first cry. "

Thanks for this post. It's incredibly helpful.x

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I know im not right at moment, been on an antidepressant med for around 5wks,think they are still building up in system as i know they need time to work

ive self reffered myself for counciling had 1st contact in a phone interview,and got a face to face session in week (3wks from refferal,cant expect any better)

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I know im not right at moment, been on an antidepressant med for around 5wks,think they are still building up in system as i know they need time to work

ive self reffered myself for counciling had 1st contact in a phone interview,and got a face to face session in week (3wks from refferal,cant expect any better)"

That's really impressive. I waited over 13 months for therapy

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *ong cockMan
over a year ago

derby

Hi all I was in care for about 5 years because I fell very ill I have depression to and I hated being in care. staff are not nice at all some are nice. The boss who owned it was nasty peace of work she's a very rich woman that's why to lol one of the girl staff said to me was would you like to feel me up and I said what to what she is and I did fall in love with her to a d I did not fell her up ad it's wrong to in God's eyes. I did told the manager to and she did not belive me at all and thenot I had a meeting with my social worker and he said he short it out and few days later.she the girl the girl staff just said it was all in my head so it was my word with hers lol. The law is crap the police are crap I had big meeting with all with my mum dad and the boss said we'll I have to call the police and I went back to police station to find out it was not reported to the police so I will let the police no about it all and the truth what really happened no one cares about no one on this nasty smelling earth I love to kill my self and get hit by a fast train

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"I know im not right at moment, been on an antidepressant med for around 5wks,think they are still building up in system as i know they need time to work

ive self reffered myself for counciling had 1st contact in a phone interview,and got a face to face session in week (3wks from refferal,cant expect any better)

That's really impressive. I waited over 13 months for therapy"
I think it depends on the area, the most recent person I know that's been referred for talk therapy goes to see a mental health nurse at their surgery every week until the appointment comes through

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I know im not right at moment, been on an antidepressant med for around 5wks,think they are still building up in system as i know they need time to work

ive self reffered myself for counciling had 1st contact in a phone interview,and got a face to face session in week (3wks from refferal,cant expect any better)

That's really impressive. I waited over 13 months for therapyI think it depends on the area, the most recent person I know that's been referred for talk therapy goes to see a mental health nurse at their surgery every week until the appointment comes through"

Ye I know in some areas the waiting list is over 2 years

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *LCCCouple
over a year ago

Cambridge

Im sorry to hear that op, and sorry to hear about others on the thread who are struggling and have friends and family who are struggling. Im sending cyber hugs to all of you.

If you are dealing people, whether it's friends, family, colleagues or clients etc. who suffer from poor mental health, then I would recommend looking into attending a Mental Health First Aid course. These are often free of charge, and will give you a much better understanding of mental health conditions, treatments, and what you can do to help. There is a regular version and also a special version for the Armed Forces.

There have been some great organisations mentioned above, for the Armed Forces community I would also add Combat Stress on 0800 138 1619.

Often people find it uncomfortable to talk about their problems to a professional face to face, or even by telephone. In this case, another useful option can be a website called The Big White Wall. It is an internet forum, which is moderated by NHS mental health professionals.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

ive worked as a support worker for people with mental health problems - a lot of silent sufferers out there and often its a small simple thing that can make a huge difference to a life - literally xxx

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *oungladMan
over a year ago

Burnham

Also wanted to add. That if you think that you're fooling and everyone into thinking you're ok when they ask "are you ok", you're not tricking them they already have a feeling that something is wrong which is why they asked

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I consider myself lucky that I was referred by my GP and saw a psychiatrist within a fortnight. I say lucky but being mentality ill isn't something to feel lucky about. At my lowest I couldn't help myself,I had someone who rang my GP for me.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"I consider myself lucky that I was referred by my GP and saw a psychiatrist within a fortnight. I say lucky but being mentality ill isn't something to feel lucky about. At my lowest I couldn't help myself,I had someone who rang my GP for me. "
I do think it's very much a lottery of where you live.

The doctors surgery isn't my first point of contact but if I'm found having a "funny" I'm taken up and seen straight away they also see mental health patients that day, but that's those that have "history" and are already in the system

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *oungladMan
over a year ago

Burnham

That really is lucky. Some parts in London, you'd have to wait months to get seen.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I've been dealing with schizophrenia for six years and it's still hard to open up and tell a bunch of strangers on a forum.

What I've learnt is to take ownership of your mental health problem. Work out your triggers and when you are most at risk. If your having a hard day it ok to put your health first and take time out. Talk to friends and loved ones if things are getting to much or you think that something is wrong. Eat healthy, sleep is also very important and so are meds.

Most of all understand that your mental health problem is just part of you, it's not the whole of you.

At first I received help from a community mental health team. It was pretty hit and miss as to how helpful they were. One of my triggers is getting too excited, so I found Christmas time hard to deal with. I was told just don't get excited then

after that I didn't go back.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My lass had bipolar disorder, she was fine on meds, but when not well, she found it hard too trust people. If you meet someone with an illness talk to them it comforts them.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"I've been dealing with schizophrenia for six years and it's still hard to open up and tell a bunch of strangers on a forum.

Most of all understand that your mental health problem is just part of you, it's not the whole of you.

after that I didn't go back. "
bloody good for you, I'm all about ownership and understanding your illness to the best of your ability

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

That really is lucky. Some parts in London, you'd have to wait months to get seen."

I was pretty bad to be honest. I think you have to hit rock bottom before they move you up the list.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *oungladMan
over a year ago

Burnham

I feel quite happy know that the people here take this seriously and are being really supportive. It can be a bit lonely dealing with mental issues

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I've been dealing with schizophrenia for six years......

....At first I received help from a community mental health team. "

I'm glad you managed to get some help. My brother was diagnosed "schizophrenic with psychopathic tendencies"

35 years ago after some extremely violent incidents.

Hes been away for 20 years.

It runs in the family as my aunt had a habit of escaping the local hospital and walking in to sea. I'm ok, a bit jekyll and hyde ha ha so lucky really.

Its a difficult illness to deal with as the signs are harder to detect.

Lifes funny though, a young lad I've known all his life suffered with severe depression. He hung himself twice and failed. He later tombestoned off our local pier and paralysed himself from the waist down. He travels round schools now warning kids of the dangers of tombstoning and is training hard for the 2016 paralympic basketball team with a new lease of life

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I've been dealing with schizophrenia for six years and it's still hard to open up and tell a bunch of strangers on a forum.

Most of all understand that your mental health problem is just part of you, it's not the whole of you.

after that I didn't go back. bloody good for you, I'm all about ownership and understanding your illness to the best of your ability

Big Thank you and sorry very for your loss. X

Doctors, health teams, friends and family all play a very large roll in support but at the end of the day it's your head and you have to take control of it and help yourself the best you can.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"I've been dealing with schizophrenia for six years and it's still hard to open up and tell a bunch of strangers on a forum.

Most of all understand that your mental health problem is just part of you, it's not the whole of you.

after that I didn't go back. bloody good for you, I'm all about ownership and understanding your illness to the best of your ability

Big Thank you and sorry very for your loss. X

Doctors, health teams, friends and family all play a very large roll in support but at the end of the day it's your head and you have to take control of it and help yourself the best you can.

"
couldnt have pit it better myself, I have all that network and the medication I'm on is really good these days but someone did remind me that it was me that was doing all the hard work

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *inky-MinxWoman
over a year ago

Grantham

What saddens me is people who think mental illness is something you can snap out of.

The includes people who are affected by it. They won't get help and won't take any drugs. Would they do the same if they thought they had cancer? I doubt it.

It is a real illness, not some kind of weakness. In many cases it can be fixed too.

Another thing to know is that the Samaritans are not just there for suicidal feelings. They will help you work through any bad feelings.

I've had dealings with 2 crisis teams, in 2 different places, for 2 different people. It seems to be pot luck if they are any good. One of them was wonderful, the other crap

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I've been dealing with schizophrenia for six years......

....At first I received help from a community mental health team.

I'm glad you managed to get some help. My brother was diagnosed "schizophrenic with psychopathic tendencies"

35 years ago after some extremely violent incidents.

Hes been away for 20 years.

It runs in the family as my aunt had a habit of escaping the local hospital and walking in to sea. I'm ok, a bit jekyll and hyde ha ha so lucky really.

Its a difficult illness to deal with as the signs are harder to detect.

Sorry to hear about your brother, my aunt also has it and has been put in a home for her own safety.

Know what you mean about being Jekyll and Hyde tho, all good fun.

I used to get up to alsort of strange stuff before I got a grip of things, my life was something like the dave trueman show. But now I can sort out what is fact and fiction and life is pretty boring and normal, well most of the time.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

i think mental health issues are less scary to us now - people are more aware and its talked about whereas it used to be shoved under the rug -

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"i think mental health issues are less scary to us now - people are more aware and its talked about whereas it used to be shoved under the rug - "
a lot of people have opened up on this thread I hope its been beneficial

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

We are capable of developing some for of a mental illness, it doesn't mean we are weak.

My partner died in march, suffering from 5 open heart operations, yes she was a little manic. Anyway the question was asked to me "do you think she was hyper. " no I said my partner was my partner. Lovely

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *inky-MinxWoman
over a year ago

Grantham

"a lot of people have opened up on this thread I hope its been beneficial"

Sharing serious information should help at least one person I'd hope

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *iamondsmiles. OP Woman
over a year ago

little house on the praire

"We are capable of developing some for of a mental illness, it doesn't mean we are weak.

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"We are capable of developing some for of a mental illness, it doesn't mean we are weak.

Wow so

True its just like the mad world

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

By *LCCCouple
over a year ago

Cambridge

"What saddens me is people who think mental illness is something you can snap out of.

The includes people who are affected by it. They won't get help and won't take any drugs. Would they do the same if they thought they had cancer? I doubt it.

It is a real illness, not some kind of weakness. In many cases it can be fixed too.

Another thing to know is that the Samaritans are not just there for suicidal feelings. They will help you work through any bad feelings.

I've had dealings with 2 crisis teams, in 2 different places, for 2 different people. It seems to be pot luck if they are any good. One of them was wonderful, the other crap

Yeah I agree, its like saying to someone with a broken leg "well have you ever tried just not having a broken leg?"

Or try saying to a diabetic who has to take insulin "oh its not healthy to take medication every day for the rest of your life."

Reply privately

Reply in forum

Reply +quote

Post new Message to Thread