Members new and old, introduce yourselves here

[Chris_B]

Hi everyone,

This is (what will hopefully become) a mega-thread for members, new and old, to introduce themselves.  I'll kick off:

My name is Chris Banks and I’m the online communities manager at beyondblue. Basically, I’m here to help out, contribute to discussions, and answer any questions you may have about beyondblue. I work with a team of moderators behind-the-scenes who keep the forums running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I’m 37, originally from New Zealand, and have worked as a filmmaker, journalist, and musician.  I’ve spent a good chunk of time working in the mental health sector too. I have lived experience of bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety, and have been living in Melbourne for nearly two years. In my spare time I enjoy movies, music, hanging out with mates, and I barrack for Hawthorn, much to the disgust of some of our regular members!

I’m not a psychologist or counsellor (although I have seen a fair few of them), so I can’t give medical advice. Like everyone else here, I can provide peer support only.
I really enjoy being part of the community and virtually meeting the many different people of all ages who come through everyday, even if they're not feeling the best when they arrive on the doorstep. Hopefully in your time here you'll feel less alone, and pick up some tips and encouragement for the journey.  

(passes on the talking stick)

PLEASE NOTE: This thread is for introductions only, if you have an issue you would like to discuss ongoing with the community, please start a new thread with your topic in the appropriate section.

[MareeB2007]

Hi. I have anxiety and panic attacks. Reaching out to this website and online community for answers and support. Hoping to find people who have had similar problems to me and have found a way to get better. Cant go to see a medical professional because I am one. Makes me feel even more inadequate because I should be able to manage this and heal myself but i am trying and failing. Anyway look forward to chatting with you all and hopefully hopefully getting better. 

[shootingstars1]

Hello everyone, my name is Rebekah and I'm new to this forum.

I am 15 and have had depression for 2 years now; I've learned not to be ashamed of it. I've accepted that my depressive disorder is only one aspect of me that sometimes covers up the real me and I always try to let the latter shine through. 

I am researching depressive disorder and I want to know what people with unipolar depression need to avoid a depressive episode, function better, and feel better, and how society can help implement this. In addition to this forum being a form of open communication, I'd love to find out more about some of my questions, which you'll probably see in threads to come. 

Hopefully I'll get to know many of you and we can support each other as a community 🙂 

[Bella365]

Hi I'm Bella I've had a history of PND, PTSD, major depression & the labels change God only knows how many med's I've tried all have failed. I see a wholistic Dr now  take supplements & follow a strict diet. I've done a lot of therapy & have a lot of tools & this is my first downward slide in 5 months 

[Bella365]

Hi Hairtie I'm new too can you tell me what exposure therapy is? I've not heard of it.

[Bella365]

That's a full plate Mumma Bear take one thing at a time keep breathing deeply my thoughts are with you x

[Louisem]

Hello, my name is lousiem and I appreciate you taking the time to read my post!

For as long as I have known my partner he has suffered depression and anxiety. He is on medication but it took a long time to find the right one and he's recently had to increase the dose as the depression has returned. He copes by drinking, which we all know doesn't fix anything but he tells me its the only thing that calms him. He has only been drinking white spirits as wine turns him into someone I don't recognise but the last few weeks its been wine, beer and spirits and he has even started being secretive about his drinking.

We started seeing a counsellor at the start of the year because it was either that or end the relationship and up until the depression returned we had been going well. He's always found it hard to communicate so this has been a safe environment for both of us to share our feelings. He's now refused to return to counselling and I'm struggling to even get him to have one final session so I can continue to see the same counsellor.

I feel that everything is unravelling and its starting to feel like it did six months ago and although I love him dearly and know he can't help how he feels I'm not sure I want my life to be like this. Its dragging me down and its not fun anymore. I've thought about leaving but I feel that would be the worst thing I could do for him right now but how do I manage my own happiness while supporting him? His 15 year old son lives with us full time (his mother lives 4.5 hours away) and we have a good relationship so if I left this would impact him as well.

Do I just ride the wave and do what I can to look after myself or should I give him an ultimatum - continue with counselling or its over? Maybe I should have a break from our situation and move out for a while? He is a wonderful man and I've waited a long time to find someone like him but depression and anxiety wasn't part of the deal

Has anyone ever been in a similar position to me? I'd be grateful if you could share your thoughts and experiences.

[pizzalover]

Hi i'm Travis. Mid 30's. I have been suffering depression since high school. Recently I've been trying to give up the alcohol and walk regularly. I don't drink regularly, but when i do i binge. Last night i fell off the wagon again. I hate myself the next day for it and feel ashamed. I hate that i hurt my wife (mentally) and i feel hopeless and worthless for it.

I'm on here to get the strength to give up the booze and for tips on what to do when I want a beer after work.

[jacksal]

Hi,

I am am a gay male in my late 40's. How time flies! Life is good now but I have had my share of ups and downs. I have been seeing a psychologist on off over the years and she has made a real difference and helped me deal with life's issues. Like family, coming out, falling in love, losing a job, breaking up from a long term relationship, struggling with money, buying my own place and living alone.

Talking about things has made a difference in my life. Perhaps I would not be here now if it was not for her, helping me to see things differently. A difference I would like to make if possible in listening and learning from others and sharing my experience in return as a peer.

Cheers Allan

[Guest_2350]

Hi All,

my nick name is Yggy and I am 39. I am a bit shy and very new to this all.

I have been pretty good in managing my life and living reasonably happy until early last year when an injury put a stop to my active life. Late last year I was diagnosed with a genetic disorder, that caused the injury. Since then I have felt progressively worse in my head. I asked my GP for help 3 months ago and have started seeing a psychologist. I have now been diagnosed with CPTSD (abuse, war, grief), eating disorder and depression. My head is in constant over-drive since some of the memories have started coming back. I know I am at the beginning of a long and I am sure often difficult journey to deal with the past, or like I like to call it, my demons. But I love life too  much and there is so much to live for and so much beauty to experience, that I am sure it will be worth the journey.

I am glad I found this forum, as I have yet to tell anyone in my life, that I am going through a rough patch.

One day I hope to be strong enough so I can give back and help other people on their journey.

Thank you all for being here, I do not feel so alone now x

[Doolhof]

Hi Ana,

I have just read your post. I am wondering if you might be able to open up your own thread under say "Depression" and share your story again.

The way this section is set up, it is not always easy to gain a lot of conversation from other people.

It seems to me like you are wanting to reach out and share how you are feeling. So maybe a post of your own under a title of your choosing might be the thing to do to receive more response.

That goes for everyone posting here really.

Hope this helps a little, from Mrs. Dools