Re: Mental health

As many people know, I'm a Bipolar II sufferer, and have been diagnosed many, many years ago.

I had been off meds for maybe 15 years but this year has been harder than ever to deal with. I think I took on too much responsibility and I burned out. It wasn't a depressive episode inasmuch as I was functioning, but I was literally on autopilot most of the time just trying to get through the day. When I crashed I was like a zombie for a week or two, and even now after three months of medication my sleep and appetite are completely out of whack.

Biggest thing I'd say to anyone is that half of the problem with anything depression related is actually understanding and accepting that there is a problem. Once you've got there, there is tons of help available. Depression is about the irrationality - not being able to silence off the bits of your brain that make you miserable, anxious or upset and sinking into a vicious circle where you can't do anything because you feel miserable, anxious or upset.

This time of year can be difficult - I for one loathe it for many reasons - but I hope people realise that everyone here is valued, everyone here has people who will offer to help. Reaching out is hard but it's not impossible and it is worth it.