Hi there. I have lurked on these forums a bit, but have decided to join.
I suffer with depression and anxiety. I thought it started with postnatal depression when my 16 year old was born, but in hindsight I think I was depressed in my teens, maybe even earlier. I went back on medication about six months ago. I have a supportive husband, but I realise he doesn't really understand what I'm going through. I have two close friends that I've been friends with since high school, but neither live close. I find it hard to make new friends because of my depression and also issues of low self esteem etc from being bullied quite badly for most of high school.
I have recently decided that I am going to return to study, with the aim of eventually being a mental health support worker. It's like I had an epiphany and I'm so determined to do this. I feel I can offer a lot because I've got "lived experience" and therefore have a better ability to understand and help people.
So...hi everyone, look forward to getting to know everyone.
