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.

FAQ

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

Forums guidelines

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

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

BMan40 Husband, father and Bi/Gay.
  • replies: 1

Hello, This is very new to me, to share my truth. I'm a 40 year old husband and father.I love my wife, my children and my life.I have always truthfully known who I am, but have struggled to accept who I am and share it openly. In late 2022 I finally ... View more

Hello, This is very new to me, to share my truth. I'm a 40 year old husband and father.I love my wife, my children and my life.I have always truthfully known who I am, but have struggled to accept who I am and share it openly. In late 2022 I finally revealed to my wife that I was bullied when I was in high school, and the reason I was bullied was because the other boys in my grade assumed I was gay. Due to this I was called all sorts of derogatory names for a gay male. I shared this with my wife as I thought I'd feel a sense of relief, and I did, in a way but felt terrible due to the fact it took away a sense of trust and faith my wife had in me and our relationship. As well, I don't enjoy upsetting people, especially those closest to me. I always wanted to be a husband and father since I could remember. My wife and I are best friends and share a great sense of humour together.In saying this, I then have these other feelings of denial, unacceptance and depression when I realised my strong sexual attraction to certain types of men.My natural instinct is to admire the physical attributes of other men and this puts me in two states of minds, which is very stressful. This is my world right now and some days are better than others.I will admit that my mental health is always at its best when I've have a proper nights sleep. When I was younger I never thought I would be trying to accept who I really am, as I always pushed my feelings aside to please others. I have had many ordeals in life which have given me a real taste of reality, which is probably why I have arrived at this time in my life. I'd love to hear from other people out there who might be in a similar situation to me, or those who have some advice.Anyway, it's been great sharing some of my story. Thanks for listening.BiMan

Checked Atypical Migraine
  • replies: 8

Hi, this is first time posting and I'm not sure if this is the right place. I have just gotten out of hospital, I presented with stroke symptoms but after many tests and observations I was diagnosed with atypical migrane. As I am and have been very s... View more

Hi, this is first time posting and I'm not sure if this is the right place. I have just gotten out of hospital, I presented with stroke symptoms but after many tests and observations I was diagnosed with atypical migrane. As I am and have been very stressed lately I am assuming that this is the cause. Does anyone have any ideas of how I can help myself to not go through this anymore as it was quite terrifying having stroke symptoms!

Guest_81325604 Where do I start?
  • replies: 4

Wow....I am new to this site, and this may be my only post as I'm not sure if I will gather the nerve to come and post again. I think Beyond Blue does great things to provide mental health support. I'm stuck emotionally. I lack motivation both physic... View more

Wow....I am new to this site, and this may be my only post as I'm not sure if I will gather the nerve to come and post again. I think Beyond Blue does great things to provide mental health support. I'm stuck emotionally. I lack motivation both physically and mentally and thought, heh, I should seek help. I have come here and it's good to see that so many people feel free to share. I hope that is helpful for them. I suppose just writing this is therapeutic. Well, I'm not going to share my problems as there is too much to tell and feel it is not beneficial for me, but, for those who are gaining something here, well done to you. Thanks to the counsellors on the site as you are also likely reading some really sad stuff and it must get difficult to see so many people with mental health issues. Well, since I don't feel I am gaining anything from this, I will end it here. Thanks.

Guest_79026771 Overthinking because of what I have done
  • replies: 2

Hi everyone I have cheated on my partner of 20 years twice and she’s always fought to want me back and I have gone back to her . Now that I love her and will never do that to her again I’m having trust issues where I think she is going to do that to ... View more

Hi everyone I have cheated on my partner of 20 years twice and she’s always fought to want me back and I have gone back to her . Now that I love her and will never do that to her again I’m having trust issues where I think she is going to do that to me so I’m overthinking every word she says. She used to always blast me and say she thinks I’m cheating on her but now that I’m not cheating anymore because I see a future with her forever. Now she’s chill and doesn’t blast me anymore it gets me worried because I feel like she doesn’t care but she’s always telling me she loves me and wants to marry me and be with me forever. Is it just me overthinking and how can I deal with the voices in my head telling me stupid things. Thanks for listening and I hope someone can shed some light on why I’m feeling like this and how to move forward with her so I no longer take my frustration out on her and others

Jen1950 Driving while drinking alcohol
  • replies: 2

My husband drinks rum and coke while driving his car. I only notice this if I’m in the car with him and when I ask him why he’s doing this he gets angry. I feel disrespected and I’ve told him this. He tells me it’s just a drink, he’s not drunk and is... View more

My husband drinks rum and coke while driving his car. I only notice this if I’m in the car with him and when I ask him why he’s doing this he gets angry. I feel disrespected and I’ve told him this. He tells me it’s just a drink, he’s not drunk and is ok to drive. Should I stop asking him to drive me somewhere if I need his help? Eg my car is not available for me to drive myself. He drinks every night and falls asleep, spilling drinks on the floor and furniture. We are both in our late sixties, both married previously, live alone on an isolated property. No public transport here. This happened twice this week, I told him I was shocked and felt disrespected, he said I’m always pissed off about something. He’s a good man but has some awful habits. I’m not perfect, I want to be happy and not anxious about his drinking habits. It also costs a lot of money. I have suggested alcohol free days, this never happens. He is also a smoker and I have a no smoking rule if he’s in my car. I dont smoke so find the smell off putting. If I’m in his car and he lights up, I open the window to blow out his smoke. Do I put up with his behaviour or keep being pissed off and telling him how I feel.

Chris D I'm back
  • replies: 4

Hi,I've on BB before, many yrs ago in that time I've been helped & supported by professionals. In this last wk, I feel I need support.. like a warm & comforting hug. Just feeling some emptiness..

Hi,I've on BB before, many yrs ago in that time I've been helped & supported by professionals. In this last wk, I feel I need support.. like a warm & comforting hug. Just feeling some emptiness..

Leah Mental Illness caused by PTSD and Trauma
  • replies: 7

Hi. I am looking for support and to support others. I know I am not the only one affected by these mental health problems, but some days it feels like it. I know others must feel the same way. I hope I can learn to heal and to help others. Most of bu... View more

Hi. I am looking for support and to support others. I know I am not the only one affected by these mental health problems, but some days it feels like it. I know others must feel the same way. I hope I can learn to heal and to help others. Most of but not all of my trauma and ptsd comes from childhood and I know people often say that was a long time ago get over it. If it was that easy I would be over it.

mac01 Anxiety/stress diarrhoea
  • replies: 7

Hi, so I'm not specifically expecting professional/medical help on here, I am just reaching out to hopefully find anyone who is going through a similar experience to me. Also I'm talking about poop for anyone squeamish About a month ago I had a bout ... View more

Hi, so I'm not specifically expecting professional/medical help on here, I am just reaching out to hopefully find anyone who is going through a similar experience to me. Also I'm talking about poop for anyone squeamish About a month ago I had a bout of diarrhoea a couple of hours after eating a salad at a cafe. I figured my stomach just didn't agree with it and thought noting else of it. Ever since though, I've been getting diarrhoea on and off, sometimes watery, sometimes a little mucusy, and the odd time a completely normal poop. I get it either 1,2 or 3 times a day, or sometimes I skip days. It doesn't happen at any specific time or after I've eaten anything particular, and I've no food intolerances that I know of. After 2.5 weeks I went to my docs, he had a feel around my tummy which was normal and requested a stool sample. Results came back clear, however he prescribed me antibiotics "just in case" which I have been reluctant to take... I'm not eating as much and have lost my appetite as I'm scared it will trigger a bout! I don't really have any abdominal pain, I'll maybe get the odd mild cramp but that's it. Overall I'm feeling well, but the diarrhoea is really starting to get to me. I can be a bit of an anxious person and a bit of a worrier, and other than an annoying eyelid twitch that I've been getting for a few weeks, I have no other physical anxiety symptoms. 3 weeks ago my work told everyone to work from home because of the whole covid-19 thing. So I'm not sure being on my own all day in the house with more time for my thoughts is helping. Can thoughts alone really trigger this? Anyway, like I said at the start, keen to hear if anyone has a similar experience and how you coped, as I find it odd that I continue to have diarrhoea without any other symptoms...

ErinRenee How do I support my sister with her mental health?
  • replies: 2

My sister is recently having some mental health issues which we were already concerned about, however that concern has increased in the last few days as she now is under the impression that we’d all prefer if she was not around. We have previously in... View more

My sister is recently having some mental health issues which we were already concerned about, however that concern has increased in the last few days as she now is under the impression that we’d all prefer if she was not around. We have previously intervened her mental health problems with professionals, however she now does not want to interact with any hence my post on support methods.In the last month or so she’s had some very worrying episodes which has led my mother (whom she lives with) to take her to urgent mental health care. She has become extremely aggressive and paranoid.She was on the path for a mental health plan and to see a psychologist, however she’s since changed her mind and now no longer wants to do so.For a bit of background, I live an hour away and am the older sister/“other” parent, my parents have been divorced for quite a while, she lives with my mother and my father lives overseas. I try to assist my mother as best as I can with all of this as my father isn’t around, and we have just asked for my father to come back home to support her.All of us understand that we cannot ‘force’ her to see a mental health professional and don’t believe it would be of any help anyway if we tried to as she wouldn’t be receptive to the help if we did.We’re all looking for a way to support and help her whilst also understanding we can’t assist her if she does not want to receive that care, she has to be willing.My main concern now, is that she believes we’d all be much happier if she wasn’t around which is not the case, we all love her deeply and for at least myself she knows and has heard me refer to her as “my first baby” many times because of the care roles in our family lives.She has often compared herself to me and continues to do so both from a life perspective and her relationship with our parents vs mine. I will note we have very different personalities but both our parents cater towards our needs in the way it suits our personalities best, especially my mother.I am trying my best to let my parents look after the situation, however I know she needs me too and many times she’s said she want to feel “normal” so I have tried to take on that role for normality for her while my parents take that caregiver role, however her mental health is getting exceedingly worse. From both her mood, demeanour and her weight (she has lost a considerable amount to the point that from looks alone, she looks underweight). We are all exceedingly worried and we’ve told her not only that, but that we love her and we care for her and we want to help her.I am struggling in terms of how to help her, I have done an extreme amount of research and I’m now just at the point where I am hoping someone has been through this before and can offer advice. A bit of a side note, her mood and thoughts from a child to now, she’s always thought someone was against her (whether it be a person or conversation) and there has been multiple times she’s used someone else’s very sad story and made it about her own life and gets very upset when she’s called out on it. Also, as of the last 6 months, she’s been ‘making up’ stories about events (the actual event itself happened like a birthday party but the situation she is saying happened, never happened) and putting people that were there at these events in these supposed situations, and then getting upset when we confirmed they did not actually happen. Unsure if she’s lying or if she’s getting very confused. I’m not sure why she does it, and I’m not looking for a label or an answer, however maybe an explanation or assistance in helping her. We would all very much appreciate any advice at all, we’re just a bit lost for options to assist her at the moment.

63off Brain zaps aren't always from withdrawal.
  • replies: 9

Hi, I'm new and have joined because I need help with brain zaps. I am on medication daily and I not withdrawing from them. I have been getting them on and off for about 8 or 9 months and I really can't see a pattern to them. 2 nights ago while out fo... View more

Hi, I'm new and have joined because I need help with brain zaps. I am on medication daily and I not withdrawing from them. I have been getting them on and off for about 8 or 9 months and I really can't see a pattern to them. 2 nights ago while out for an evening walk, every time I turned my head I got multiple brain zaps, which went right through my body all the way to my hands and feet. I also have tinnitus and this was also off the chart, with each zap being accompanied by a louder buzz. I have had a migraine ever since and this is not the 1st time it has happened like this. Given that I haven't changed my medication, and every google search centers around SSRI withdrawal Iam really struggling for a proper answer. Is this just something that isn't well understood? Any suggestions will be very appreciated.