Depression and PTSD

hi. I have struggled for the last 5 odd years to come to terms with my mental health illness. this is especially because I am of African descent and mental illness is not something talked about and is very much taboo. A while back I had a very bad breakdown and was sectioned, some of my friends where of African descent and heard of my illness. When I got home things changed they avoided me and as I speak I have not spoken to any of them for the best part of 4yrs.Its really sad you are left isolated, and these people are well educated but still carry round the stigma and outdated beliefs.I have finally come to terms with my illness and sort help from my GP and found a good support network. There are some very bad days but then there are some good days trying to keep to focus and not giving up is the one thing I struggle with sometimes and also hoping family members understand and don't leave you alone...

It really is so sad to read that you have been left feeling isolated. Sadly, society can be so ignorant regarding mental illness, especially the older generation. People, I  know today still refer to psychiatric hospitals as "the nut house' which I actually find really offensive . Thankfully, my parents were mental health nurses and so we were raised to realize that it can affect anyone, although my mum was a Sister on  the Geriatric wards so it was mainly dementia on her wards. We would come home to discover that she had brought one of the patients who had no visitors home for a cup of tea/biscuits. 

As children it was frightening to go onto the wards or the amazing shows/fetes but it has been a valuable experience.

One of my siblings was diagnosed with a mental illness and I was diagnosed with anxiety depression following a marriage break up.

My new partner who has a terminal illness suffers with severe depression .

My now ex was diagnosed as being "delusional + psychotic". We as a family supported him , despite him having an affair but he chose to walk away from us .

His parents on being told his diagnosis actually said ;

"Well, we don't know were he's got that from". They then went on to say "He always had a good imagination as a child" That is first class ignorance and denial.!!

It is so good to read that you have acknowledged,accepted and embraced all the help available to you.

It is such a horrible place to be but it really can get better. By joining this group, you will never be alone . You will receive only support from those who have first hand experience.

You will also discover that you can have a wonderful life as I couldn't ever see any light in my future as I was in such a dark, lonely frightening place. The path was long but I am now in such a great place in my life; although it hasn't been easy.

You need to be gentle on yourself. Take time out for you to do things for YOU; no matter how small.

With a support network and a lot of self help ;you can get to where you need to be.

In time you will have a lot more good days than bad days. Don't be over critical of yourself when you have a low day. Accept that everyone has low days.

Little by little, day by day.

Keep in contact on this group. The more you put in the more you will benefit, especially in realizing that you are never alone.

Big hugs wrapped with love.

Julie. x