Mental health issues can affect us all at any time without warning, and many things can trigger it quickly or over long periods – this is what happened to me.
I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after a very traumatic family event. I didn’t realise I was depressed or anxious until I did a Mental Health First Aider course – it was only whilst doing the course that I realised I had the symptoms of depression.
Having severe depression is recognised by experiencing 8 out of 10 common depression signs and symptoms over a two week period. I had all 10 over 3 years, so it finally dawned on me why I felt so unhappy and anxious all the time, and that I needed help to pull myself out of it.
I spoke to my doctor and discussed how I felt. Everyone from time to time finds their mental defences are weakened and need help to understand what is affecting them. My doctor helped me understand that there are many options available to help.
I attended some discussion groups and talked about how I felt. I also discovered from talking to my close friends that many of them had also felt this way over the years. By opening up I was able to help myself and them.
I was always a naturally happy person and I couldn’t understand why this had suddenly stopped. I’m pleased to say that I’m back to being happy, but I also now recognise the signs of depression approaching, and know to go and do the things that make me happy, not sad.
Please remember that even though a person may seem happy, it doesn’t mean they aren’t suffering.
For more mental health information, advice and support visit our support available page. You’ll also find lots of self serve resources on The Insider.
3 Comments
Thank you for sharing your story – it is so important to continue to raise awareness about mental health, especially so amongst men. Sounds like you have the support and tools you need – please continue to reach out when you need to.
Thank you for sharing your story, I hope it will reassure colleagues to know that they can speak up and seek help when they need it. Too many people don’t talk about their mental health enough. Take care and you are welcome to call me if you need a chat over a cuppa
Thanks for being open about your experiences. Every story shared is inspiration for others to do the same and create more open dialogue about mental health. You’re playing such an important role in breaking down the barriers and destigmatising these issues – brilliant!