"Depression/low self esteem "

I have been suffering with a lot of pain these past 15 months, which was affecting my whole lifestyle I. e. unable to walk freely, not able to drive; not able to exercise, not able to stand for any length of time; having to walk with a stick and with my husband’s help; not able to shop! ! ! ! My ankle was becoming rigid and my foot began turning inwards.

Despite being under the care of four specialists and undergoing x-rays, Ultrasound, MRI Scans and Cortisone injections, no-one has been able to fully diagnose the problem. In desperation, I have started a course of acupuncture in the hope that this will alleviate my pain.

I have always been a confident, person with great organisational abilities; but I was becoming reclusive and frightened of making decisions. I also cried a lot. I wanted my life back. I knew what my problems were, but could not find a way of dealing with them. I was becoming despondent of how my life was going to pan out in the future.

I have an excellent GP who recognised that I needed some independent counseling and she referred me to the Inclusion Matters Sefton Team.

I cried through my first appointment. The Counselor was very patient; understanding and gently drew me out on my main issues.

She was able to suggest ideas on how I could deal with my problems through being structured and by planning routines for each day and sticking to the plan. Being positive about myself and realising that having a negative approach to problems affects my whole demeanor.

I have had three sessions; I already feel a weight has lifted from my shoulders. I feel more confident and want to become more pro- active again – within the constraints of my disabilities.

I whole-heartedly recommend anyone, who is feeling as though life no longer has meaning any more, to book an appointment with Inclusion Matters Sefton. They have helped me.