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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

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bonnylass A New Chapter
  • replies: 3

I joined Beyond Blue a couple of weeks ago but have only read through things over night yes another sleepless night, today I am going to start a new chapter in my life notice how I said I am going to do it and no try to do it ...... baby steps I love... View more

I joined Beyond Blue a couple of weeks ago but have only read through things over night yes another sleepless night, today I am going to start a new chapter in my life notice how I said I am going to do it and no try to do it ...... baby steps I love the saying where you see the fat lady walking and she says at least I am doing more than the person sat on the couch xx So I have the washing on, defrosting meat to make food for the week. putting my wine glasses away alas I am sat here with coffee and choc biscuits for breakfast as I have nothing else in, I do not think I have ever been more sad and depressed as I am now, I am on medication and also have counseling, she wants me to start doing things for myself which I find very hard, I have no problems doing things for other people, on the outside people see me as a functioning lady I am 62 have a full time job but inside my heart is broken, I have three children involved in drugs grandchildren I do not see ... as one was taken off her mother because of drugs, and all sorts of other reasons, I hate to socialize how can I when I mix with people my own age they share photos of their grandchildren tell me how wonderful their children are ... what can I say its just easier to stay away, I left my second husband because my children and their ways were killing him, now I live alone and btw am quite happy alone, I love my children who are grown adults now who have made a total mess of their lives I blame myself I try hard not to but since being honest is the way of my future that is how I feel, they have taken my money my self esteem, I do not know who I am anymore or who I am meant to be, but I know I have to dig myself out of this hole or I am going to just die a very sad lady, you may get sick of my posts as I will try and share all with you as I feel I have no one else who understands .... baby steps today xxx

Skipp Introducing Myself!
  • replies: 3

Hi, I'm brand new to this forum. I joined in hopes of gaining confidence and encouragement to seek help with my issues. I'm in my early 40's, living alone, no children, no friends (only acquaintances because I have to) I have a boyfriend overseas who... View more

Hi, I'm brand new to this forum. I joined in hopes of gaining confidence and encouragement to seek help with my issues. I'm in my early 40's, living alone, no children, no friends (only acquaintances because I have to) I have a boyfriend overseas who I speak to via Skype whenever I can. I have Social Phobia, Depression, Anxiety, long time hair puller (Trichotillomania), panic attacks, mainly with my Asthma, thinking I can't breath etc...Just to name a few "issues" I have( no-one wants to read someone life story on here)...all of which make for a messed up existence.. So as I said, I'm hoping to read some posts and gain confidence to go see someone about it all. Thanks for reading.

Flippybid Lost and don't know how to get "un-lost"
  • replies: 2

Don't know where to start, really!I am feeling lost in life, seriously lost.Don't get me wrong, I am having a good, well-paying job which I like to do.However, my problems with myself start to show at work.I more often than not think that people don'... View more

Don't know where to start, really!I am feeling lost in life, seriously lost.Don't get me wrong, I am having a good, well-paying job which I like to do.However, my problems with myself start to show at work.I more often than not think that people don't like me, that they are talking behind my back and so on.This has led to me being partially isolated in private life... heck not partially, I am isolated.The same that has happened in my private life is now moving into my worklife.People telling me I am doing a good job but I KNOW I am under-performing. I think people will move against me at work if they have opposing opinions. Constructive criticism is taking personal etc.I like my work mates but I think I turn into a real problem to them due to my own issues.I would like to get help but I honestly struggle with calling a person I don't even know. I also have issues with going to a GP and say "Hey, I am feeling mentally shit most of the time. Can you help?"This may sound silly, but every time I am visiting my family and they are around me all day, I am feeling a lot better mentally. I am more refreshed, feel more confident and simply enjoy my life a lot more.Unfortunately, my Family is living in Europe and I can visit them once a year, only.Now, I am also not sure if such a move would be advisable e.g. radical change of your environment. I also would have to explain the situation to my Manager and I am unsure if that is advisable though I believe he opened the door for a general health conversation just recently.Anyhow, I actually just want to figure out what options I have, who to contact and any other recommendation.Your help is much appreciated.

Alex_B Rats Gnawing at my Stomach
  • replies: 3

G'day Friends I have been chronically ill all my life and now I care for my Wife who had a brain tumour. My oldest son nearly died in the Pinery Fires and he and his Wife lost their farm and House. He is sick now with PTSD but doing really well. My W... View more

G'day Friends I have been chronically ill all my life and now I care for my Wife who had a brain tumour. My oldest son nearly died in the Pinery Fires and he and his Wife lost their farm and House. He is sick now with PTSD but doing really well. My Wife is doing well after her seizure, but me, I have fallen in a heap. I'm still going to work and being productive, but I'm shaking like a leaf on a tree in a storm. I am having reactions to my drugs and little sleep, but the worse thing is that I feel like rats are gnawing at my stomach. I am forcing myself to eat and drink because I lost 7 kg in a month. I know that this is just a glitch and that I will get better, but "What a Ride!!" I haven't been out in my garden for two weeks and don't do any of my hobbies any more. Trying to do things bit by bit. Still do the house-work, but my aim is to be even more productive at work and also start to enjoy life again. At the moment I am sinking with just my nose above the water! (So there is still hope!) Don't give up peoples, better days are ahead. Back to work, I'm not paid to chat!!

Petra New after circling for some time now....!
  • replies: 25

....and decided it's time to land! Hello BB, I'm new to the forum. In fact, new to any forum, this is a big deal for me to join up, let alone post but I now know I'm not alone here after reading the many posts, and replies and I finally feel safe. It... View more

....and decided it's time to land! Hello BB, I'm new to the forum. In fact, new to any forum, this is a big deal for me to join up, let alone post but I now know I'm not alone here after reading the many posts, and replies and I finally feel safe. It's okay to be here in this place, with understanding people. Thank you everyone. I've had anxiety for as long as I can remember, and suffered periods of depression around some negative and major life events, resulting in PTSD also. Unfortunately, my constant worry and perfectionism as a child was put down to my personality becsuse I'm a Gemini! Hmmmm!? Not that I knew what that was or supposedly meant at 4 yoa but it must be right if Mother said so?! I'm better at managing my conditions (now that I know the true meaning as to my behaviours) than I ever have but it takes work, and sometimes more work than I'd like to give it but I'm worth it. We're all worth it. In my earlier days, denial and running away from myself (hard to do I know) seemed the easier option. Exhausting! I got tired of running about 10 years ago! I'm 47 yoa now, and do what's needed to keep me balanced, for my sake but also those around me. I feel like a bit of fine tuning is required at this time hence my visit to BB and I'm so pleased I have.

c4alien Just joined/introduction/extreme depression
  • replies: 2

Hi, I'm Chris.Just joined up here.Have had a long (very long - 20+ years) battle with depression. Recently, I was injured at work and had to have surgery. I had a breakdown in the waiting room at the day procedure centre and haven't recovered. In fac... View more

Hi, I'm Chris.Just joined up here.Have had a long (very long - 20+ years) battle with depression. Recently, I was injured at work and had to have surgery. I had a breakdown in the waiting room at the day procedure centre and haven't recovered. In fact, it's gotten worse. I am extremely depressed and anxious. Withdrawn from my family and friends. Can't answer the phone. Can't go out.Got an appointment with a psychologist in the middle of next month. That seems so far away...I have suicidal thoughts, but that's all they are. My wife and kids are my safety net. Even though we fight a lot and my depression, frustration and sometimes anger effects them negatively. Which in turn creates more anger, frustration, guilt and depression.My doctor is really helpful. But lately my antidepressant medication has been increased and she's also prescribed me some benzodiazepenes so that I can "get a bit of a break from myself".I don't know what to think or feel at the moment. Just drifting along in limbo. Not working and not going back any time soon...I've also been experiencingchronic pain due to my hip. Which I'm also waiting for surgery on. My body is falling apart. My mind is falling apart. And my life is falling apart.I'm lost. Feel lost and don't know what to do or where to go. Just me. Here. In this. Now.I've got some good friends online that I can talk to. But nothing too deep.I can't talk to anyone about my feelings or experience. Guess that's what brought me here.So. Here I am. And there you are. beyondblue's clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636. Normal 0 false false false EN-AU X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:8.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:107%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}

rhinoceros Introducing myself
  • replies: 4

Hello,I thought I should introduce myself to this forum.I'm male, 23 years old. I started displaying signs of depression and anxiety when I was around 13 years old. Over time these symptoms became worse. At the age of 17 I attempted to commit suicide... View more

Hello,I thought I should introduce myself to this forum.I'm male, 23 years old. I started displaying signs of depression and anxiety when I was around 13 years old. Over time these symptoms became worse. At the age of 17 I attempted to commit suicide. The support of my family helped me greatly through this time, and I was prescribed medication by my GP. Since then I still have suicidal thoughts but I would never attempt such a thing. Currently I still have depression, but it is well managed, and recently I have developed a case of performance anxiety with my new partner. This has had a negative effect on my depression as I'm sure you could imagine.I am coping well with my depression, I have a job and work as a jazz musician in the evenings. I feel that I am functioning well most of the time. Some days a really tough, but overall I can manage.At this point I'd like to graduallywean off the medication. I experience some side effects; my memory isn't as sharp as it used to be, and my head often feels 'cloudy', for want of a better word. The medication I'm on has some truly horrific withdrawal symptoms so I am a bit nervous about coming off it.It would be good to hear about other peoples experiences with medications, as well as weaning off medications in particular.beyondblue’s clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636.

bluebelle3 Hi everyone
  • replies: 4

Just thought I would say hello. I am hoping I can get some more information about my situation here. It feels so complicated! And I really hope there is someone else out there with some advice. It seems one hour a week with a clinical psych is just n... View more

Just thought I would say hello. I am hoping I can get some more information about my situation here. It feels so complicated! And I really hope there is someone else out there with some advice. It seems one hour a week with a clinical psych is just not enough! Hopefully Ill get a chance to write a post on the forum tonight.

Will.i.am Here's mine in 50 words
  • replies: 7

28, M, Sydney Depression (Dysthymia) & Anxiety Father, Husband & Son I look forward to reading your life stories, reading and discussing what has worked for you, sharing my experiences and finding another outlet I can use to help simplify my life. Th... View more

28, M, Sydney Depression (Dysthymia) & Anxiety Father, Husband & Son I look forward to reading your life stories, reading and discussing what has worked for you, sharing my experiences and finding another outlet I can use to help simplify my life. Thanks and look forward to this new journey! W