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BeyondBlue Tradies National Health Month
  • replies: 0

Hi everyone, August is Tradies National Health Month, to highlight the importance of health and safety among Australia’s trade workers. Mental health and wellbeing is crucial to the safety of anyone in the mining or construction industries, so Beyond... View more

Hi everyone, August is Tradies National Health Month, to highlight the importance of health and safety among Australia’s trade workers. Mental health and wellbeing is crucial to the safety of anyone in the mining or construction industries, so Beyond Blue is hosting a special free webinar for our tradie community on Tuesday 12 August at 4.30pm which you can register for here. We know that Tradies can face unique stressors, with a culture of toughness and difficult job demands that can impact personal time and self-care. It can also be tough for partners and family members who aren’t sure how to support someone in a trade who may be showing signs that their mental health isn’t at its best. If you’re unsure where to start your conversation this is the space for you. Whether you want to share your own experiences, ask questions, or simply connect with others who understand what you're going through, you're in the right place. If you're seeking additional support, here are some resources: Hope Assistance Local Tradies: Home This Is A Conversation Starter: TIACS - This is a Conversation Starter Mates in Construction: MATES - Industry Based Suicide Prevention - MATES Don’t forget - our counsellors are always here for you on 1300 22 46 36. We’ll also use this space to post some of the questions and answers from the webinar discussion. Feel free to dive in and keep the conversation going. Thank you again for joining us — we’re glad you’re here.

Just Sara A Bouquet for Pearls - share your appreciation for other members
  • replies: 715

Every now and then, members share a beautiful Pearl of Wisdom. How often do you think to yourself; "OMG that's great! I wish everyone could see this." Presenting someone with a bunch of flowers is a generous way of acknowledging their insightful word... View more

Every now and then, members share a beautiful Pearl of Wisdom. How often do you think to yourself; "OMG that's great! I wish everyone could see this." Presenting someone with a bunch of flowers is a generous way of acknowledging their insightful words. I hope this thread stays active through members giving out praise regularly to people they feel deserving, and therefore keep generosity of spirit alive within the pages of BeyondBlue Forum. My bunch of Red Roses (my choice) goes to Wishful for the following sentence; 'Personally, I see no reason to be praised in me, but I'm learning that seeing through the eyes of others can be more accurate!!' I so hear you Wishful. Just beautiful... Try to keep your leading comments short to focus on 'their' words. Choose specific flowers (or a gift if you like) to present to them. Sign off respectfully and sincerely. I hope this takes off... Spreading the love...Sara

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Just Sara '''Self trust''' - a path to recovery, or too difficult a task?
  • replies: 6

Hi all posters and readers; A recent situation occurred which proved valuable in learning to trust myself to be a better person for me, not 'them'. Many times I've read about people who say their trust has been eroded in everyone and everything in th... View more

Hi all posters and readers; A recent situation occurred which proved valuable in learning to trust myself to be a better person for me, not 'them'. Many times I've read about people who say their trust has been eroded in everyone and everything in the world; suffering with agoraphobia, or becoming a hermit by choice. I suffered a break-down and then anxiety/panic symptoms for yrs, but have had relief due to acting on my own behalf instead of relying on those around me to change, or pleasing them because they refuse to change. This meant I had to learn to trust 'my' judgement, motivation and skill in communicating what I wanted. It also meant learning to defend my position tactfully, without being swayed by emotional threats or fear of the same. When I first started doing this, albeit clumsily, others resented it, argued, ignored me or gave unpleasant looks. Yes, it was hard to say the least. But as I persevered, my skill and resolve improved. No, I still don't trust those around me to do right by me. However, 'they' are learning not to abuse me or my resolve now, and blow me down with a feather; they're changing! Standing up for me, without previous fear, gives a real sense of freedom and empowerment. How brave are you? Would you consider standing your ground with people you're scared of being yourself around? Could you trust yourself to do right by you; tactfully? Would you rather feel happy when you go home from a family gathering, or feel resentment and inadequacy while complaining to your spouse in the car afterwards? First time posters are welcome to respond too. Sara

blondguy GOOGLE: The Good and the Bad on Mental Health
  • replies: 6

Hi Everybody and New Posters! This isnt an anti Google Thread. Its only my experience after having chronic anxiety followed by depression since 1983. Google is an invaluable search tool and used daily by billions of people globally, however... When i... View more

Hi Everybody and New Posters! This isnt an anti Google Thread. Its only my experience after having chronic anxiety followed by depression since 1983. Google is an invaluable search tool and used daily by billions of people globally, however... When it comes to researching mental health it has flaws and there are many. When a person is trying to 'self heal' or 'self diagnose' it can sometimes make us feel worse or even exacerbate any existing symptoms that we have. Sure we may learn something about our symptoms but to a 'tired' mind it can become bewildering, confusing not to mention depressing due to the tonnage of information available The Beyond Blue Anxiety/Depression Checklist may save you a lot of frustration/anguish prior to using Google www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/anxiety-and-depression-checklist-k10 If you have had success or frustration using Google to self diagnose or even just check on a symptom please post and let us know your views my kind thoughts Paul

white knight Forgiveness and forgeting. The two "F's" for love
  • replies: 6

The two F's, my own idea of maintaining an ability to overcome so many hurtful situations. I've listened to friends and acquaintances talk about how they "draw the line" with their spouse when it came to splitting up. "he rubbished my son and that wa... View more

The two F's, my own idea of maintaining an ability to overcome so many hurtful situations. I've listened to friends and acquaintances talk about how they "draw the line" with their spouse when it came to splitting up. "he rubbished my son and that was the end of the line"..."she brought up my previous marriage and I knew then that was the end of us" -these words can be decisive in ones action to leave their partner. But are they only words? I mean actions are a different story. Affairs,gambling, incompatibility, bashings etc are in my mind far more substantial as reasons to leave your partner. What of the rare argument/slanging match whereby you yell and scream over domestic issues? Yes, we all do have our "line" we draw but I ask you...when does pride overtake wisdom? Pride overtake love? Where does the act of forgiveness have its place? And where does forgetting come into its own? During our worse arguments we are not ourselves.If we arent ourselves then is being out of control acceptable? Post argument it can all come down to regret, asking forgiveness and most importantly...moving on successfully. Moving on depends on your ability to put the words and minor actions behind you. Not drag them up even in your own mind. I had a friend. He and his wife had an argument.During the height of the 'war' she threw mince meat at the guys face. He was stunned. The argument was over her not leaving the kitchen while he baked sausage rolls for her ladies group the next day. Her almost obsession with cleaning took over and she was placing items he was using in the dishwasher. It became unworkable and he snapped. She yelled, he yelled, then she threw the mince. Initially he was so stunned he yelled "that's it, nobody assaults me in that manner, its over".30 minutes later she returned to the kitchen distressed. She asked forgiveness. She pleaded he not leave her.She was totally distraught. He sat her down and told her that his love extends so far that he would forgive her and then told her, "I will also never recall that you threw mince at my face, that is part of my act of forgiveness- for I love you". It was assault, it was demeaning, it was stupid and unnecessary. His kindness for her was at the time in cooking something for her group.She knew it. But he also knew that she meant well by cleaning up. Turns out she was having a change of life. We all have arguments but love can extend far further than you think. After all, its only words....and a bit of mince...

gld Keeping on track
  • replies: 4

Finally you reach the conclusion you have concord the beasts causing you grief. Then in a brief moment you relax and let your guard down suddenly realising that it knocking at the door again. Has anyone out there got some good suggestions to hold the... View more

Finally you reach the conclusion you have concord the beasts causing you grief. Then in a brief moment you relax and let your guard down suddenly realising that it knocking at the door again. Has anyone out there got some good suggestions to hold them back and hold on to the good habits and develop new desirable habits? I feel that the undesirable habits have been around so long that it is so easy for them to come back as they make you feel comfortable. Even though you know they are dragging you down. Keen to learn some new tools to better myself. Gen

Expatboy Self Acceptance of Your Mental Illness
  • replies: 3

Today I was reading about the passing of Carrie Fisher, a long time support of mental health. In reading of an interview with Dianne Sawyer (American journalist) Carrie famously said: " She was not ashamed" of her mental illness, or the treatment she... View more

Today I was reading about the passing of Carrie Fisher, a long time support of mental health. In reading of an interview with Dianne Sawyer (American journalist) Carrie famously said: " She was not ashamed" of her mental illness, or the treatment she sought for it."I am mentally ill. I can say that. I am not ashamed of that," she said. "I survived that, I'm still surviving it, but bring it on. Better me than you." I know that at times it feels like society makes it feel that Mental illness is shameful. However, I too like Carrie Fisher admit I am mentally ill and will more than likely be so for the rest of my life. I do however, have some really good times that go with some really challenging moments. I feel its important to let others know this, and I take opportunities to speak to groups, or individuals about my illness, what has helped me to manage it better and what is in my toolkit. I encourage all with a mental illness to not be ashamed and remember some of those with mental illness have made some of the greatest contributions to mankind.

Doolhof HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! WOOHOO TO 2017 ! (share your resolutions here)
  • replies: 12

Hi Everyone, If you hadn't noticed, we are now in 2017! For some of us, 2016 was not so flash in parts with some events being experiences we would rather forget. Guess what! This is a NEW YEAR! We can all start over again! I know there has been great... View more

Hi Everyone, If you hadn't noticed, we are now in 2017! For some of us, 2016 was not so flash in parts with some events being experiences we would rather forget. Guess what! This is a NEW YEAR! We can all start over again! I know there has been great hardship and tragedy in so many people's lives, I truly acknowledge that and my heart felt best wishes go out to you all. For me, I am going to try hard to make this the best year I can! I'm going to work on improving my health mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. I'm going to find different ways to make the most of each day, to laugh more and have some fun. A trip to the library will help me find some comical books to read or maybe one on a place I have dreamt about visiting. I will eventually drag the tent out of the shed and set it up, even if it is just in the back yard. I will look in my garden for flowers or nice looking foliage to place in a vase on the table. Oh! There are so many things to experience and try. Who wants to join me in making 2017 a year of experiencing new and different things or revitalising past hobbies and interests? Okay, anyone have any suggestions for what they hope to do this year? Today is a brand new day! Grab hold of it and embrace it! Cheers all from Dools

Kitana New Year, New Book, 12 Chapters, 365 pages. Love 2017
  • replies: 1

Had small bouts of depression here and there over the years, but I went through serious depression towards the end of last year primarily due to work and the feeling that my life had come to a halt at the age of 35. Realized that my life revolved too... View more

Had small bouts of depression here and there over the years, but I went through serious depression towards the end of last year primarily due to work and the feeling that my life had come to a halt at the age of 35. Realized that my life revolved too much around my job (which was getting more stressful every day and I felt my manager was a devil in sheep's clothing), and my biological clock was ticking and I didn't have a husband nor kids like everyone around me my age... Anyways, I had serious depression and needed to find an outlet to release my feelings. I am extremely grateful to find this site and express my story through the forums - I am thankful for the people who replied to my posts and encouraged me to see my GP about my depression. I did go and see my GP and she and her nurse helped me. So to update:- I got the courage and determination to move out of my comfort zone, and I got a new challenging job. Furthermore, I realized 2016 was a year for me to learn valuable life lessons. What I learnt are as follows (disclaimer= these are MY life lessons, probably completely different to everyone else): 1. No use getting stressed over people and things you don't have control over. You can't change people, you can only change your own attitude towards them. 2. My Time is valuable, so spend it on people and on a job that will help me grow and gain fulfillment. 3. Don't be afraid to let go of unhealthy relationships, whether it be a toxic partner or friends that you no longer have common interest with... Don't be afraid to seek new relationships. I was afraid to let go, fearing I was going to be alone and lonely... There are so many great people out there waiting to meet you - go out and seek. 4. Try to eliminate or at least limit social media use (ie Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat)- People post what they want others to perceive as awesome, always happy, blah blah blah. Focus on your own life, and don't compare yourself to others - you don't walk in their shoes or know what happens behind close doors - focus on you. 5. At the end of the day, believe in yourself - it's all up to you to change your life. Remember to be grateful for the simple things/blessings - roof over your head, food to eat, family that loves you. Again, I'm grateful to have found this site. It helped me get through my 'blue' period last year, and am feeling great and looking forward to the next chapters that the new year brings! Thanks

white knight Theory, practice and insight
  • replies: 7

A couple of years ago I sought my 10 visits under a care plan. I attended a psychologist. At the end of the sessions she told me her thoughts. "You are one of the lucky ones Tony, you have insight into you illnesses, and you know the theory, your cha... View more

A couple of years ago I sought my 10 visits under a care plan. I attended a psychologist. At the end of the sessions she told me her thoughts. "You are one of the lucky ones Tony, you have insight into you illnesses, and you know the theory, your challenge is putting it all into practice. You need to put a lid on your emotions and think more before you react." Back to that in a moment. My wife of 5 years has dyslexia, I've known her 30 years now. When she can't spell a word she asks me. I spell the word without her feeling inadequate. When young she was ridiculed and labelled "dumb". But being dyslexic has little to do with intelligence. She reads books, does our finances, plans holidays and so on. She just has a hard time spelling and with arithmetic. So the connection I see here is that humans have abilities and inabilities. We have areas where we don't perform to a level we want to be at. Geniuses can have vision or thoughts well beyond 99.9% of the population but some can't put oil in their car, pump up tyres or test a battery. Churchill defended the world from Hitler but he couldn't shake the " black dog". So back to "putting theory into practice." I've been trying really hard to ...count to ten before I raise my voice at confronting people, be more patient with others. Seek time out when the bipolar mood arrives etc. But I'm now of the opinion that I have found my limits and therefore found my inabilities, identified both ends of my capabilities and what's important, I've come to terms with this knowledge. I've found peace in this process. Isnt that significant? Sure is. To me it signals that my incapacity to act on the symptoms of my illnesses actually proved they are indeed serious medical conditions and that means there is darn good reason not to be able to overcome. Such inability is in my opinion equal to other peoples barriers like dyslexia, socially inept, addicts of many fixes, speech impediment and so on. The key is giving it your best effort, then accepting that all humans are imperfect. Focussing on what you do well and accepting what you are incapable of doing well as being OK. The sheer weight on your shoulders of mental illness often leads to low self esteem and withdrawal. Stand proud that you try. There is no better feeling when at the end if the tunnel that you've accepted who you are.... Worts and all. Do you have difficulty putting theory into practice? Do you have insight into your illness? Tony WK

nowhereman SUDDENLY STARTING TO LOSE MY WEIGHT
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Hi.Hands up whos had weight issues? I have had since 2011 .just suddenly i noticed my body prepairing itself for a surboard again.my tummy is flatenning. Legs more trim and muscly. Eg. This has happened before when i was emotionally ill.put on 20 odd... View more

Hi.Hands up whos had weight issues? I have had since 2011 .just suddenly i noticed my body prepairing itself for a surboard again.my tummy is flatenning. Legs more trim and muscly. Eg. This has happened before when i was emotionally ill.put on 20 odd kgs.then suddenly it went.so i will return to my home reef break and surf again soon. Only thing im doing different is around half my daily diet is made up of home made fresh fruit salad.cheers. max

1113 ----------Kind thoughts and blessings to people in need-------
  • replies: 3

A warm welcome to every human, animal and plant, I would like to start this thread by thinking and sending kind thoughts to everything on the planet that is affected by natural/unnatural disasters. This happened yesterday; (Christmas Day) "Major 7.6 ... View more

A warm welcome to every human, animal and plant, I would like to start this thread by thinking and sending kind thoughts to everything on the planet that is affected by natural/unnatural disasters. This happened yesterday; (Christmas Day) "Major 7.6 magnitude earthquake jolted southern Chile on Sunday, prompting thousands to evacuate coastal areas, but no fatalities or major damage were reported in the tourism and salmon farming region. Chile's National Emergency Office (ONEMI) lifted both the evacuation order and a tsunami watch three hours after the Christmas Day quake struck, telling nearly 5,000 people who had evacuated they could return to their homes. Onemi said one bridge in the area was impassable as crews worked to restore electricity to 21,000 homes without power. Officials had issued a tsunami warning earlier for areas within 1,000 km (621 miles) of the epicenter, just 39 km (24.5 miles) southwest of Puerto Quellon, off the coast. But the warning was downgraded to a tsunami watch. Eight mostly small ports in the area were closed, Chile's Navy said. The quake was felt on the other side of the Andes mountains in Argentina, in the southwestern city of Bariloche, but structural damage in areas close to the epicenter was limited, witnesses said." My kindness thoughts and best wishes go to everything effected by this earthquake. 21000 homes lost power on christmas day. Some kids didn't have Christmas, probably scared and afraid on this day of joy. Blessings to Chile's children, family's, pets and plants. Peace be with them. Please feel free to add your kind thoughts or add a new event as they arise to show humanity our kindness, compassion and love. Peace Back to my holiday. Matt.