"Depression-Ground-Zero again"

After years of working in the South and being unhappy, I tried to start a new lifestyle and career. Things didn't work out and about a year ago I became very reclusive and suffered with severe depression. I became a person with tunnel-vision that saw no happy ending for me.

With all that in mind, I resolved to take my own life and made two serious attempts with overdoses of prescription medications. I became ill, but recovered without seeing a doctor or going to hospital. I tried again on two more occasions, but couldn't go through with it at the vital moments. 

Distraught, I spent several hours on the phone with The Samaritans and the local Citizen's Advice centre. I also opened up to two close friends, who immediately came to support me without question. As I tried to turn my life around, I got a temporary job in a shop, but almost immediately suffered a debilitating panic attack and had to leave.  

Feeling like I was at Depression-Ground-Zero again, I sought further medical help, and started attending a CBT course with Inclusion Thurrock. Their therapy and treatment has caused a major epiphany in my life and been a huge turning point for me. I was diagnosed with GAD (Generalised Anxiety Disorder) and many things finally made sense. I have been a constant worrier from a young age, but never acknowledged to anyone just how badly it affected me. However, now I know that I have a genuine Disorder that is medically recognised and treatable, so the sessions have been of immense help to me. I now realise how the GAD has shaped my life (mostly for the worst) and caused my slide into depression and suicidal tendencies.

I still have a long way to go, but I'm taking recovery courses and learning to use support from my friends and others. But as a 50+ year old, I had to overcame the various stigmas of having a mental health issue, both on a personal and social basis. 

However, Inclusion Thurrock has given me the ability to recognise and combat my worst problems. I can't thank them enough.

I just wanted to say that if you're male or female, young or old, and you're suffering quietly with depression or GAD, or other "invisible" mental disorders - go to see your local GP about treatment. You are not weak and you are not broken. You just need help and that help is out there - both with your friends and with places like Inclusion Thurrock. It won't be easy but you are never alone.