Pain / depression

[Craig_m]

I've always had some depression. About 7 years ago I was diagnosed with arthritis in my spine. That has since developed into what a pain specialist calls acute on chronic. I have also developed arthritis in my hips and knees. Another painful condition I have is diabetic nurophathy. Although I'm not suicidal I am self destructive. And take risks akin to stupidity. Some days the depression rules and I just stay in bed. Other days pain runs the days agenda. On days when both get going I just laugh it off. Another stressful part of life is the centrelink thing. I know it's not the workers fault, it's just a big machine that grinds people into the ground. Not enough being done with duty of care by c/ Link. I'd be interested to hear if anybody has had mental health issues over the big machine. Pain and depression a nasty combination

[uncut_gems]

Craig m,

I'm so sorry to hear about this awful double-whammy you've been dealt. In my opinion Centrelink is a punitive tool that, as you say, grinds people into the ground. The recent media coverage of the long lines and confusing messages just confirms what Centrelink users have known for years already about its dysfunction and cruelty.

I imagine as someone with pre-existing conditions in addition to mental health struggles, you're having an extra tough go of it at the moment. What are some things you do to keep yourself busy and to help with the pain?

Cheers,

Gems

[Craig_m]

Hi gems
Thanks for the kind words. Medications for the pain control. It's nasty stuff lots of side effects. Don't know where I'm going with that. New specialist is trying different remedies. Might get some where with him. Just bought a conure parrot, keeps me entertained . Play trivia games muck around on the internet. Mostly stay home. Few weeks back went for a drive to the local river after standing on the bank for awhile I turned to walk away when a combination of failing body parts landed me in the drink. Funniest thing that's happened for awhile.

[blondguy]

Hi Craig m

I dont what diabetic nurophathy is yet I do understand your frustration re mental health and centerlink.....I am sad that in 2020 there is still a problem with depression and centerlink

I dont believe in using Google as medical research tool after having anxiety/depression since 1983 so can I ask what diabetic nurophathy is and how it effects your life?.....only if thats okay of course

my respect and kind thoughts

Paul

[Craig_m]

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage from high blood sugar. Usually in the feet and lower legs. Can occur elsewhere. I watched my father screaming in agony with it. Most likely what he died of. It's what worries me the most. Always seems to come on at night. Like right now.

[blondguy]

Hi Craig....thankyou for helping me understand what Diabetic neuropathy is...I hope it was okay for me to ask..

I have been having ongoing drama with Centrelink for a couple of decades as they dont understand mental health...Its a serious matter like you mentioned Craig...Can I ask how they have been giving you grief?

The forums are a safe and non judgemental place for you to post Craig...Your well being and privacy are paramount to Beyond Blue

my condolences for the loss of your father Craig

Paul

[Craig_m]

Hi Paul
Hope your ok today.
Can barely bring myself to start taking about the centrelink monster. My first claim was rejected because none of my conditions were fully diagnosed treated or stabilized. Do get that done would of required many trips to the city . Can't travel very well. Out of pocket expenses which I couldn't afford. Sent the claim for review which took a year.was told to keep sending whatever new medical information I got.only to find out at the end of the review that they only review information from the original claim. While all this is going on I can't get an exemption from mutual obligations because none of my conditions are temporary. When I asked if I got any impairment points had to go through freedom of information act. My depression has been raging probably been causing some low blood sugar episodes. I've looked into a few things and they have a duty of care like everyone else. Especially around mental health. Only person who showed some care was the girl at the job provider office. All about the money. Something seriously wrong with here . Decisions being political not medical.