Hello

[Allia]

Hi

I am completely new to this sort of thing but thought I should probably get started now more than ever. I have been really struggling at the moment because I haven't had anyone to talk to about how am feeling since I only really talked with my friends. I have anxiety and depression and don't know what to do about it anymore. I hope that this platform will really help me open up.

Just wondering if there is anywhere, in particular, I should post and if there are any coping techniques.

Thanks 🙂

[jess334]

Hi Allia,

Welcome to the forums. This can be a great place to find advice, vent, or meet other people with similar issues.

If you want to post about your anxiety or depression in the specific forums, or you can add to anyone else's posts.

Have you spoken to your doctor about your anxiety or depression? A great place to start is creating a mental health plan with your doctor. This could include a referral to a psychologist or medication.

Hope to see you around the forums more.

Kind thoughts, Jess

[SarahZ]

Hi Allia,

Welcome to the forums and thanks for reaching out!

I'm so sorry you are struggling with your emotions. Just know these forums are a safe space to talk about your feelings openly, without any judgement.

I definitely recommend seeking professional support if you aren't already. Asking a trusted GP for a referral is a good place to start. Otherwise, theres some good help lines on beyondblue that provide some really helpful counselling support. I think its really helpful to always have a strong support system you can rely on, even just one or two people you really trust and can always talk to (maybe sibling, best-friend, parent?) is super beneficial in ensuring any negative thoughts don't start spiralling out of control. I always find distracting myself helps me cope whenever I find myself becoming too anxious or upset.

Here to talk if you ever feel up to it 🙂

Wishing you all the best and sending you positive thoughts.

[geoff]

Hello Allia, and a warm welcome to the forums.

Can we suggest you first get a diagnosis from your doctor, and if needed, medication can start and then treatment can be channelled towards a psych, but please ask your GP if a mental health plan can be obtained, which allows you to 10 Medicare paid sessions to see a psychologist or you may want to see a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication.

The one benefit is that you and the psych need to have an understanding between the two of you, where you can talk freely.

Don't be afraid to open because we have all been through our own type of depression.

Hope to hear back from you.

Geoff.