Lived Experience Forum

HelloKitty1981 · ‎22-05-2024

Welcome @RoseBlue, sometimes just making the effort to say hi to strangers, is a big scary first step for anyone new so congratulations, its an important step and we are not a judgemental bunch of people.

If anything we are supportive, celebrate the small wins just as much as the big ones, support each other and give insight into our own experiences 🙂

Ramman · ‎23-05-2024

Hi. I am a parent to my 2 teenage daughters - both of which i am primary carer for. I never expected to get divorced but its happening - mental health concerns is a major theme of tge divorce from teens to adults and not handelling it. So I never in my widest dreams expected to be a single parent under any such circumstances yet here I am.

I don't like that ^ the above defines who I am. I work in IT, I am a solutions architect- I find solutions to computer system. I like steam trains and I have played Eve Online (spaceships) for over 16 years. I like to understanding how things work. I want to be more connected (emotionally) with my kids.

I am here because it's hard doing everything and sometimes it feels like a burden I can't cope with.

Rusky73 · ‎23-05-2024

Hello my name is Rusky [edited by moderator] and although it does not define who i am it is apart of me. I was diagnosed with a Drug Induced psychosis and schizophrenia when I was 30 years old, I'm now 51. I like to listen to alot of music, for music has been there for me when no one else was. I've lived a very sheltered life and as a result of that I've missed out on alot of what life has to offer. I'm quite the joker because I like to see people smiling. I'm hoping to find friendships and to learn how to better manage my illness.

tyme · ‎23-05-2024

Welcome to the forums @Rusky73 ! Great to have you with us!

I'm sure there are many who would love to welcome you and connect with you.

By connecting with others, I hope you find the support you are looking for.

Tagging members @HelloKitty1981 @Shaz51 @Tilz @Asgard @PinkFlamingo @Snowie @Eve7

Eve7 · ‎23-05-2024

Welcome to the forums @Rusky73

Asgard · ‎24-05-2024

Hi @Rusky73 @Ramman

Welcome to you both to the forums, which is full of people who care, and like you have travelled very similar paths. Have been on the forum for around 5 months now, and I must say some of the best advice I have ever heard, has been here. You kinda build a virtual relationships with people here, which has certailly done me the world of good. You can rant if you want to, sometimes its what the body really needs, and the release you feel when you finally tell someone what has been troubling you is immense. So welcome again ....Asgard

Lucylou1 · ‎26-05-2024

Hi there,

This is my first post and I’m feeling a little awkward and anxious.
I was given a bipolar diagnosis in late 2022 after 2 breakdowns in 2021 and ruining my career and many relationships.
I am still coming to terms with the diagnosis and everything that happened.
I feel so alone sometimes with a lack of understanding from my husband, family and friends.
I’m hoping through this forum I can find some acceptance of my mental illness, and leave the shame behind.
I have 2 beautiful dogs that give unconditional love and get me out walking everyday!

tyme · ‎26-05-2024

Hey there @Lucylou1 ,

Welcome to the forums!

Thank you for sharing a little about yourself.

I'm sorry to hear that things have changed remarkably due to your mental health.

You'll find many of us here can relate.

It took me a long time to come to terms with my MH conditions. I always wanted to hide it and pretend everything was okay... yet coming to this anonymous forum has really allowed me to open up so that my MH was normalised... I didn't feel so 'weird' after a while.

I hear how lonely the journey can be at times. I hope you connect with others here so that you feel less lonely as you navigate the highs and lows of mental health.