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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

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GANFRED Husband is missing
  • replies: 10

Almost 3 weeks ago my husband left work and did not come home. He was located by police 1 week after and declined his whereabouts to be disclosed but he stated he would be going home in a few days he just needed to clear his head. 2 weeks have now pa... View more

Almost 3 weeks ago my husband left work and did not come home. He was located by police 1 week after and declined his whereabouts to be disclosed but he stated he would be going home in a few days he just needed to clear his head. 2 weeks have now passed since being located and he has not returned home and I have had no contact from him. I am beside myself and at a loss as to what to do with myself. We have had a hard time for a while after he was in an accident and I feel that he has had a mental break down or something. Please any ideas on how to find him or what to do would be greatly appreciated.

Oceanlove neighbours noise and anxiety
  • replies: 5

Hi all, first time posting. I feel like my life is controlled by anxiety I am feeling over noise coming from the neighbours. We moved into this rental 2 years ago, and on the day we inspected it, I saw some young people from the next door house inspe... View more

Hi all, first time posting. I feel like my life is controlled by anxiety I am feeling over noise coming from the neighbours. We moved into this rental 2 years ago, and on the day we inspected it, I saw some young people from the next door house inspecting it. They were typical lovely vibrant 20 somethings but something triggered in me. We eventually were offered the house but on the first night the neighbours had a loud party lasting all night. From that day, I have suffered moderate to severe anxiety over potential noise. They have only really done this a handfu of times in the last year, but I am constantly on edge, worried, and sometimes overwhelmed with feelings of paralasys, particularly when I hear something as simple as voices coming from next door. It doesnt help that our house has no insulation and they may as well be having their get togethers in our bedroom. It has completely overwhelmed me and my life. I feel trapped as I realise it is my problem and short of moving to the country where i have no neighbours this will continue to happen. I've tried ear plugs, music etc but can still hear the noise. It's important to note that generally noise is not issue for me, and if it were noise coming from say a crying baby, or dog barking I know I would not have these anxiety reactionary feelings, and more like normal feelings of just annoyance. It really is linked to party type laughing, screaming etc. I also cannot see an answer. Would love to hear if anyone else shares these disproportionate reactions. Cheers

RazzGruber Clueless newbie who doesn't know where to begin
  • replies: 4

Hello everyone, I'm a 50 year old guy, married for 14 years, and have twin 11 year old girls who are both on the autism spectrum. I am probably on the spectrum myself but haven't felt the need to be formally diagnosed. I was diagnosed with depression... View more

Hello everyone, I'm a 50 year old guy, married for 14 years, and have twin 11 year old girls who are both on the autism spectrum. I am probably on the spectrum myself but haven't felt the need to be formally diagnosed. I was diagnosed with depression about 10 years ago and have good and bad periods.....right now being a bad one. My wife has essentially told me that unless I sort myself out and see a counsellor that she is going to leave me (or more to the point kick me out). She has threatened this before and I have been able to calm her down but this is one time I won't be able to. I know I have my issues but I would be devastated to lose her and the kids. She wants me to organise some counselling this week (and show her that I have made an appointment) and I don't even know where to begin. My head is in such a mess right now, and I want to try to make things better but I feel that sometimes no amount of effort is good enough. Hoping coming here can give me some insight.

GippyBoy What is wrong with me??
  • replies: 2

Hi all, After reading a few comments on here this morning I thought I’d better do so too. I don’t know where to start. I’m constantly struggling with feeling useless and worthless, that nobody actually gives a stuff about me etc. I’ve been told to “m... View more

Hi all, After reading a few comments on here this morning I thought I’d better do so too. I don’t know where to start. I’m constantly struggling with feeling useless and worthless, that nobody actually gives a stuff about me etc. I’ve been told to “man up,” “get over it,” “grow up and get some b***s,” and for so damned long I’ve tried to. I try, I really do try to make life work, yet with another job failure/loss imminent (even as I write this post) and a beautiful partner and son to take care of, I’m feeling even worse than usual. I’ve been to see a GP and gone to see a Psychologist too, nothing seems to have helped. Is there anyone else (I know there is), I just feel so alone and dark. If you’ve read this far, thank you....

MochaMochi New here, hello!
  • replies: 7

Hi, Just joined, so I'm hoping to get some support on here. Thanks!

Hi, Just joined, so I'm hoping to get some support on here. Thanks!

daisy211 New girl, hello!
  • replies: 3

Hi everyone I'm an international student and been here for 2 years now however I still struggle to make new connections. I am a socially anxious person and often times feel very lonely so I hope I get to meet and connect with others who are in the sa... View more

Hi everyone I'm an international student and been here for 2 years now however I still struggle to make new connections. I am a socially anxious person and often times feel very lonely so I hope I get to meet and connect with others who are in the same boat and make the days seem less isolated. I do struggle with making friends as an adult. I spend most of my days browsing the web and reading books and my hobbies include playing the guitar, drawing, and petting cats.

Jan_H Newby
  • replies: 3

Hi all I'm a 44 year old mum to a 13 year old son and a 10 year old son. I have anxiety and depression (diagnosed 13 years ago after I got severe PND after my first son was born). My 10 year old has severe anxiety too. We moved to Australia a year ag... View more

Hi all I'm a 44 year old mum to a 13 year old son and a 10 year old son. I have anxiety and depression (diagnosed 13 years ago after I got severe PND after my first son was born). My 10 year old has severe anxiety too. We moved to Australia a year ago. He has learning issues and his anxiety doesn't help. I'm wondering if there are any other parents on here who are in similar situations and where you get support in managing your own anxiety when your child struggles. Thanks so much!

vanillabare new
  • replies: 7

Hi I am new here. I recently saw my gp and recommended this website . I have been feeling all sorts of feeling, depression, sad, alone , worthless and I don't know why. I sometimes wonder what I done wrong to deserve these feelings. it is not a good ... View more

Hi I am new here. I recently saw my gp and recommended this website . I have been feeling all sorts of feeling, depression, sad, alone , worthless and I don't know why. I sometimes wonder what I done wrong to deserve these feelings. it is not a good place to be in and I don't know how to deal with my emotions.

Empathic_Bipolar Long time sufferer - first time sharing
  • replies: 3

Hi everyone, im usually the helper/fixer.. my job and role requires this of me and l can normally cope. But tonight was the first time I’ve felt so alone, unappreciated and empty. And l feel quilt for feeling this way. I guess l just need a break. I ... View more

Hi everyone, im usually the helper/fixer.. my job and role requires this of me and l can normally cope. But tonight was the first time I’ve felt so alone, unappreciated and empty. And l feel quilt for feeling this way. I guess l just need a break. I am abused in my job by mentally unwell people and while l normally don’t take things personally tonight l just..... l come home and I’m crying silently as my partner sleeps and all l wanted was to relax as l have to get up and go to work again tomorrow. I hate to sound like such a mater. l thought l could text instead of calling a help line, but it’s apparently closed. anyway. It doesn’t feel right talking on here when everyone else is experiencing similar if not worst feelings. I think l feel better just typing this. please know you are not alone.. you are loved, appreciated and you matter! Don’t be so hard on yourself and NEVER fix a temporary problem with a permanent solution.

AnxiousAussie11 Small Introduction
  • replies: 3

Hi all, new user here! I decided to sign up to these forums after my previously diagnosed health anxiety decided to pay me another visit. Several years ago I was put on anti-anxiety medicine by a doctor which I took for 3 or so years - I weened off t... View more

Hi all, new user here! I decided to sign up to these forums after my previously diagnosed health anxiety decided to pay me another visit. Several years ago I was put on anti-anxiety medicine by a doctor which I took for 3 or so years - I weened off these back in March this year as I really did not like how dull they made me feel. Everything was going well until the past couple of weeks. I typically experience physical symptoms, especially tight chest/air hunger/shortness of breath which in turn makes me more anxious - vicious cycle! When I am able to keep myself distracted so I am not focusing on my breathing I generally feel good, but that sometimes prove to be a difficult task. I am not entirely sure where else to go from here at this stage, but figured it's a start.