G'day one and all.

[Biffanders]

G’day everyone
I thought this was a good place to start by introducing myself.

I live in Western Australia, engaged with volunteering at various places and doing a bit of studies. I’m a big fan of computing, including PC gaming and I have interests in theology, ancient history and philosophy.

I was diagnosed by when I was 21 (I’m now 43) with Schizoaffective Bipolar disorder but at the time, despite having a willing support network, I knew better and didn’t need that medication or help. After all what would those professionals know right? Haha.

So, I ended up in a downward spiral of drugs and alcohol, antisocial behavior, misanthropic attitude and isolation in a self-destruction circle of so-called friends. Thankfully when I crashed and burnt, my loving parents were still around and prepared to help me. I realized I was so lucky and wasn’t prepared to test that again.

Presently I’m medicated and have developed the supportive network with a psychologist, psychiatrist, and a peer group. I am improving my diet and doing a little bit of exercise going for a healthier lifestyle. And I’m now looking forward to starting a new network of friends and engaging in “normal” interactions within my community.

Oh, and I have a cat. 😊

Regards
Biffanders

[kanga_brumby]

Welcome to Beyond blue forums, Biffander. Have a good look about the place. In the social section there are a couple of threads that are informal chat areas feel free to join in. It can be a laugh at times.

Kanga

[blondguy]

Hello Biffanders

Welcome to the forums and thankyou for the great post too!

What an inspirational post 🙂 You have a terrific proactive attitude having all the mechanisms in place

I understand that spiral you mentioned. Ive had chronic anxiety which has morphed into depression for a long time now. 21 years on the meds and have regular visits with my medical team too. the rollercoaster of mental illness does have its ups and downs...absolutely!

There are many super gentle on the forums that understand where you (and I) are coming from. The forums are a very safe and non judgemental place to post as well

You have been very busy....support network happening....diet and exercise.....great effort and determination 🙂

I really hope you can stick around the forums Biffanders...and an animal lover too! I have a big dog lol

my kind thoughts

Paul

[Starwolf]

Welcome to the forums Biffanders,

Thank you for sharing your inspiring story.

Well done for being proactive about your mental health. Sometimes we all need help, whatever form it may take. I am glad medication and a supportive mh team helped reclaim peace of mind and quality of Life. It sounds like it has been a long, hard road. You have done well and deserve to be back on more stable ground.

You are right, you were lucky that your parents had your back while you experimented with dodgy coping strategies...Mistakes is mostly how we humans learn. Doing so means turning negativity into its opposite. It takes courage and determination.

There are many forum members struggling with issues you are familiar with. Rest assured your contribution will be much appreciated.

Good to have you on board.

[Babyboomer]

Hi there Biffander and welcome to the forums. As Paul says there are lots of lovely, caring, supportive folk on these forums. I've not been here very long, but have found the various posts really helpful.

Kanga is right about the social sections. He contributes greatly to the fun side.

Find you way around the site and check out what's available. The BB Cafe is a good place to start.

Welcome again

Jacky

[Biffanders]

Wow, what a wonderful welcome!

Thanks for the supportive greets and forum suggestions. Having a little look around at the moment reading others stories and experiences. I think I may know what I'm doing tonight 😉

Cheers all

Biff Anders

[Starwolf]

Always good to greet new members.

You have a cat (who looks gorgeous)...Those of us who have animal company are privileged. Nothing like a furry or feathered companion to lift you out of a sombre mood. I'm a remedial trainer for dogs in need of rehab, mostly rescue K9s who have been deemed unrehomable.

If you haven't already found out, there is a thread called "Pets-Helping you through rough times and Keeping you Well" in the Staying well section (see All Posts). Perhaps you would like to introduce your cat to us and talk about the special connection you both enjoy.

Looking forward to reading more from you.

[geoff]

hello Biffanders, wow what a terrible welcome that these dear people have given you, and it's well deserved, to overcome what you now know isn't good for any person suffering from depression, is a lesson which we have to learn by doing it the hard way.
The love and support from your parents has been exceptional, something that we always had hoped would be, to direct you back on track and in the right direction.
From what you are currently doing, it would be a shame to lose you, hidden in a black hole, but now you're back on track wanting to engage with other people who have been there and done that, and along the way I'm sure you have learnt so much, avoiding the triggers that were once a problem.
Great to meet you. Geoff.