Immediate support
Immediate support

Welcome and orientation

Welcome! If you’re not sure where to start, that’s OK. We’re keen to know more about you and what you’re looking for on our Forums.

Start a discussion

FAQ

Find answers to some of the more frequently asked questions on the Forums.

View the FAQ

Forums guidelines

Our guidelines keep the Forums a safe place for people to share and learn information.

View the guidelines
Jump to
Start a discussion

Pinned discussions

Sophie_M Meet your community champions!
  • replies: 10

Hi everyone, We wanted to share with you the way that our wonderful Community Champions are here to support you. You may have noticed that a few of our Forums members are labelled ‘Community Champion’. Community Champions are volunteers within the Be... View more

Hi everyone, We wanted to share with you the way that our wonderful Community Champions are here to support you. You may have noticed that a few of our Forums members are labelled ‘Community Champion’. Community Champions are volunteers within the Beyond Blue Forums who: have the time, skills and empathy to support other members regularly; help to welcome new members; are actively engaged members that help set the tone of our community. Our Community Champions are regular contributors to many conversations across the forums. They are a consistent and friendly voice that have committed to sharing their experience and expertise with this community. They are not health care professionals or clinicians. Like you, they have an experience with a mental health challenge or diagnosis – either for themselves or someone they care for. This forum is for people who understand what it feels like and have a lived and living experience of mental health challenges. Our Community Champions help everyone feel comfortable and confident by demonstrating what excellent peer support is all about. Click here to find out more about how you can become a Community Champion! This incredible team are excited to introduce themselves below, and we are sure you’ll see them around the forums in conversations important to you.

Aaronsis HELP..Am I posting in the right section?
  • replies: 10

Welcome to those who are considering posting for the very first time, welcome. Thought I would repost part of the words that Chris B posted awhile ago, (2014) as I can hear that people are unsure if they are posting in the right section or worried th... View more

Welcome to those who are considering posting for the very first time, welcome. Thought I would repost part of the words that Chris B posted awhile ago, (2014) as I can hear that people are unsure if they are posting in the right section or worried that they are posting "the wrong thing". 1.A good title makes the difference Just like a headline in a newspaper, when scanning the dozens of threads to click into, it’s only natural that people will choose the ones that resonate with them most. A title that entices the reader, or asks a question, is likely to get a better result than something non-descriptive like “Depression” or “I don't know what to do”. If you think you’re not good at choosing titles, leave it till last. Spend time writing your post, then perhaps choose a sentence from what you’ve written as the title. 2.Join in threads that have already been posted We all have our own unique stories, but part of the reason for joining a forum like this one is because you know that you will have a lot in common with others who are posting. Before starting a new thread, have a look through the current topics being discussed and see if there’s a conversation you can join in with. It can be quite common to have a handful of very similar threads happening at any one time, with members seemingly unaware that there are others right there who are going through the same thing. Talking to other members on their threads is a great way of getting yourself known so that when you post a thread of your own, people may respond quicker because they recognize your name. 3.Choose the most appropriate section for your post Many people browse the forums looking for stories specifically to do with pregnancy and parenting, employment, grief, loss, separation etc. Going straight for the “Depression” section may seem like the easiest option, but this section is often the busiest, so your post is more likely to get lost among the threads. Making good use of the different forum sections not only helps keep the forum relevant, but you’re more likely to find others who are going through the same experiences as you. Also, if you're wanting to discuss issues of trauma, abuse, suicidal thoughts or self-harm, it's really important you post in the designated section to avoid triggering others who may not wish to read about these topics. Mostly..just come and chat, we are here for you. Our amazing wizards in the background will see your message ends up in the right spot. Sarah

All discussions

Start a discussion

Shay94 feeling lonely
  • replies: 1

Hi guys, am new here and have been struggling hard with anxiety/depression for last couple of months. Staying with my family as I was housesitting but since we had a storm/fence blew down at home & this new virus, I cant leave my Mum's to go back to ... View more

Hi guys, am new here and have been struggling hard with anxiety/depression for last couple of months. Staying with my family as I was housesitting but since we had a storm/fence blew down at home & this new virus, I cant leave my Mum's to go back to my partner. Not having much work, having to get onto Centrelink and being stuck in isolation sucks (no, i dont have the virus, am just avoiding going out unless I absolutely have to). I was wondering what tips/advice anyone can give me to keep me occupied. I'm a gamer but laptop is old so can't play much on there anymore till I get my new comp sorted, if there's anything else people can offer me, I'd appreciate it. Am willing to try new stuff

Sophie_M Monthly Forums Update: Reflecting Back on March
  • replies: 0

We think it’s fair to say that the last couple weeks have involved a great deal of disruption and change of pace for individuals and communities around the world. Yet one message remains clear – we are all in this together. Let’s take a moment, pause... View more

We think it’s fair to say that the last couple weeks have involved a great deal of disruption and change of pace for individuals and communities around the world. Yet one message remains clear – we are all in this together. Let’s take a moment, pause. Breathe. There are so many ways communities have come together during these uncertain times and we thank our online community for fostering such helpful discussions and encouraging everyone to stay connected. Community Voices: What are people talking about? Along with our ‘Coping during the Coronavirus outbreak’ thread the community has created several additional threads that focus on ways to direct our thoughts and energy to the things that are within our control, assist the community in focusing on practicing different methods of self-care, and engage in discussions that encourage more positive dialogue. Thank you to all who are continuing to reach out and join the conversation – you’re not alone. How to take practical advantage of isolation I wonder if it might be an idea for people to say all the actual things that can be done while cooped up in isolation. Things they do themselves or recommend for others. If you can think of something that has constantly occupied or distracted you, or better yet has had a concrete positive outcome one can point to later on that would be perfect (within the bounds of decency of course:) - Croix Make friends with "boredom" and do something anyway, even if it's just watching an ant trail. Look around you and discover the extraordinary in the ordinary that perhaps was missed in the humdrum and busyness of life. - LaurieD Dear Diary, a day to day look at self-isolation Dear Diary I have spoken for a few mins on the phone I have done some writing am surprised how quickly the time has gone. wonder what tomorrow will bring. – quirkywords After this time, I feel strangely stronger and more optimistic. Not because I improved, or became better or a better boss. Because I relied on my colleagues and on this forum for support, because I offered my ears and because I made the best with what I have. Because I told people to look up and remember that this is our chance to make the world a better place, even if it's to a small group of people around you. Each little action counts. – WanderingAround Positivity Words A – Z Sometimes it is really challenging to think positive. Especially when we are struggling with things or when circumstances in our lives seem difficult. - Shelll A is for accepting – quirkywords Believe - Birdy77 Connectedness - Sleepy21 Social Distancing Film Club I hope everyone is staying safe and well during this hectic time. Since it looks like a fair number of us are due for some extended time inside, I thought I might poke around Netflix and see what was available that I might recommend. I think this would be a great place to talk about films, especially our favorites to watch when home sick or our go-to rewatchable. - Uncut_gems Valued Contributor Award Our Valued Contributor for the month of March is Sleepy21! Sleepy21 is friendly voice on the forums and welcomes members with empathy while reflecting on another’s journey. Thank you Sleepy21 for making others feel accepted and comfortable with talking through what’s on their mind, along with ways to stay well! Welcome Back Jess! Our team would like to welcome back Community Champion Jess (display name ‘Jess334’) to our community. To read more about Jess’s journey check out the thread ‘Introducing...the community champions’ BB News Beyond Blue welcomes funding to develop a new COVID-19 Mental Health Support Service. This new service will offer free information, counselling and referrals online and by phone (Read more here). Stay tuned for more information. For anyone needing support with working through their thoughts of suicide or self-harm during this time, it is really important to have a plan to keep yourself safe. We encourage anyone who would find creating a safety plan to be a helpful way to cope during this time to refer to our Beyond Now suicide safety planning app. You can read about how it works and where to download it here . You can even call the Suicide Call-back Service (1300 659 467) or Lifeline (131114) to go through it with one of their counsellors over the phone. Here are some points to consider: • If you already have a plan, review it with a trusted friend or family member, or at your next appointment with a mental health professional. • Stay focused on your reasons to live, family and friends you can talk or yarn with, and things that can make you feel strong. • Consider how you can stay in touch with people by phone or video chat during times of crisis. • Look for online spaces and communities – like Beyond Blue’s forums – where you can keep connected with people while physically distant. • Visit Beyond Blue’s Looking after your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak page for further advice on how to manage your mental health during this time. Let's stay connected!

Catmum Trouble Coping
  • replies: 2

Hi, I just joined this forum. I'm having trouble coping, feel scared all the time. I'm having physical issues as well, hearing noises, breaking things as I've become super clumsy, getting confused and just start crying at any time. I can't even cook ... View more

Hi, I just joined this forum. I'm having trouble coping, feel scared all the time. I'm having physical issues as well, hearing noises, breaking things as I've become super clumsy, getting confused and just start crying at any time. I can't even cook anything as I keep burning things, my husband now has to prepare all our food. Last night, or actually early hours of the morning (1.20 am) someone started knocking on our front door loudly. I didn't know if I was imagining it or not? I woke my husband up and he said he heard it, so I don't think I imagined it. I couldn't sleep after this as it unnerved me so much. We decided not to answer the door as it didn't seem safe to do so in this area where we live. Tried to do some exercise today and have a break from the house and went for a walk (keeping my distance of course). People pass me by and I say hello, and they don't even reply. I said "we can still say hello from a distance". But I guess when I look around people have empty faces now and don't want to even say hello. I don't actually mind that much being at home, as I spent a lot of time at home before and I have lots I can do. I just can't shake the fear. Now I'm worried about my elderly mum. She relies on me to visit her and get groceries for her. I need my husband to come with me as I can't drive through city traffic on my own with the way I'm feeling, shaking all the time and I can't think straight. Now the rules are its only one person who can visit I don't know what to do. She is so lonely and even though I'm suffering I try to help her, but now I feel like I can't as maybe this is risky for her and I don't want to break any new rules and I don't think I can travel there alone. I don't know what to do, I'm so full of indecision. I just have this feeling of impending doom all the time. I suffered severe depression in the past, but this is the first time I've felt distressed since then. I know we are all going through it, so please don't tell me that (I don't know why but this phrase irritates the hell out of me as we all experience things differently) but I guess I was an anxious person even before this so now my anxiety has gone sky high. My husband says he thinks I need some professional help with what I'm feeling.

DannyDarko I don't know if anyone can help but I'm here
  • replies: 1

Hey. New here. I suffer from depression but also am taking care of my girlfriend who suffers much much worse depression and worse things. I care so much about her that I tend to completely ignore my own issues which by comparison at least seem trite.... View more

Hey. New here. I suffer from depression but also am taking care of my girlfriend who suffers much much worse depression and worse things. I care so much about her that I tend to completely ignore my own issues which by comparison at least seem trite. Anyway I really need some kind of outlet for my thoughts and talking to her about them would only really upset her so I found these forums somehow.

Bhawani Loneliness s
  • replies: 18

Hi, Hope all of you are fine. I have never seen such period of life . When you are almost isolated, disconnected from the rest of world in terms of face-to-face contact , though you are socially connected , but the buzz of CoronaVirus has made our li... View more

Hi, Hope all of you are fine. I have never seen such period of life . When you are almost isolated, disconnected from the rest of world in terms of face-to-face contact , though you are socially connected , but the buzz of CoronaVirus has made our lives still and we are limited to single rooms & house . I have tried a lot to keep myself alive and kicking , but every time after finishing study for one or two hours my mind seems as if it is blocked . Even I am trying to resume my study, but every time fear of being disconnecting from loved ones is increasing .

Vness29 New - not sure
  • replies: 4

Hi there, this is my first post, I don’t know exactly what’s wrong with me or why I decided to do this but I’m not okay, and I’m not sure what I need.

Hi there, this is my first post, I don’t know exactly what’s wrong with me or why I decided to do this but I’m not okay, and I’m not sure what I need.

Gum_Leaf New to this and trying to avoid the news
  • replies: 10

Hi, I’m new here. I’ve been having terrible panic attacks since social distancing was introduced and so overwhelmed with all the changes and distressed about everything going on in the world. I feel like what is happening is reenforcing my existing s... View more

Hi, I’m new here. I’ve been having terrible panic attacks since social distancing was introduced and so overwhelmed with all the changes and distressed about everything going on in the world. I feel like what is happening is reenforcing my existing struggle with feeling the world is not a safe place! I’ve also had a virus and I keep thinking I have ’the virus’. Every time I have a symptom I start to panic that I’m going to get worse and die. I think I have a lot of fear of death. Sometimes I wish I had a stronger faith. I am not looking at the news at all at the moment and thought it might help me to connect here. Sending best wishes to everyone struggling with mental health at the moment.

Independent Social Isolation - When things close down.
  • replies: 6

Post Hi gang. So glad to have found this forum. I am a former registered nurse who majored in mental health in my post graduate degree. I live alone with my cat Mennischt and have no family and rely on my social activities for socialization. My usual... View more

Post Hi gang. So glad to have found this forum. I am a former registered nurse who majored in mental health in my post graduate degree. I live alone with my cat Mennischt and have no family and rely on my social activities for socialization. My usual social activities were my source of a social life and community connection. Unfortunately these are all closed down due to the pandemic, so that is my social life gone. I have just come through about three months of social isolation due to fractures in right arm and couldn't drive to my social activities - so this additional isolation is a bit hard to take. I know others are doing it tough right now so I really shouldn't complain. Just glad to know that there are others out there

Meljlow Would like to connect with others suffering severe depression and anxiety and also have broderline personality disorder and post turmeric stress sydom
  • replies: 7

Hi all Im very new to this all and its very hard for me to be able to reach out about my mental health. I have always bottled everything up inside that was until the bottled shattered and left me in pieces. I was a very strong & independent person wh... View more

Hi all Im very new to this all and its very hard for me to be able to reach out about my mental health. I have always bottled everything up inside that was until the bottled shattered and left me in pieces. I was a very strong & independent person who would take on the world in I was needed too. Im a mum to 4 kids and have been very in love and happy in my relationship for 30 years. Unfortunately my whole world was turned upside down 6 months and I hit rock bottom.I have since been diagnose with severe depression and anxiety and borderline personality disorder as well as PTSD due to suicide attempts. With all 4 together I feel like Im on a endless roller coast with millions of ups and downs. Ive found a great GP who is helping me along but I would like to talk with people who are dealing with the same feeling and emotions I am and who fully understands how hard it is to get through the day and nights.