I feel a bit sad that I am ill

[IAmFeelingABitScaredNow]

I had not thought of myself as a person with mental health issues. I knew I had been suffering with depression and anxiety issues, which I thought was quite common in the general population and it was not really something that I thought was a big deal and something to label someone as mentally ill, with mental health issues. When I thought of people with mental health issues, I thought of schophrenia and that type of thing. I have had 6 months of seeing a psychologist, I have no label as to what is wrong with me. I look around at the other people there who are going to see someone and they look obviously mentally ill, and I wonder if I look like that, I feel a bit strange about it all really, and I have been wondering what other people will make of the situation.

Hi there, I do know what you mean. We're weird in this country because no one thinks twice about seeing someone over physical issues, but somehow people perceive this stigma around mental illness - when it really shouldn't be any different at all.

Firstly, I think anyone who thinks badly of you isn't worth knowing and is showing themselves up to be very narrow minded (and somewhat stupid as mental illness can affect anyone). You have no less reason to hold your head high than anyone else.

The other thing that occurs to me is that so many people have mental health issues and no one even knows, so I very much doubt you look "obviously mentally ill".

When I first went on antidepressants some years back and saw a psychiatrist I was a bit ashamed and wouldn't admit it to anyone. I'm currently on citalopram and this time round I don't care who I tell, because I'm ready to challenge anyone who says it could never be them!

Lastly, I've found mumsnet so reassuring because you don't feel so alone. Stick around and I'm sure people will be on with much better advice than me. :)

Depression and anxiety is a mental illness and as you rightly say is very common with 1 in 4 suffering from this at some point in their lives, and 1 in 6 at any one time.

There are other more serious and enduring mental illnesses, as you say like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc.

Can you say a little more about your situation and your symptoms and whether the psychologist has been of any help. I'm not quite sure what you are seeking in response to your post, so a bit more detail might help. I think however that those of us who have/are suffering from mental ill health must lead the way in trying to get rid of the stigma that is still attached to mental health issues.

When you say you are wondering "what people will make of the situation, which people do you mean" - anyone in particular.

All I can do is agree with the above. I was 20 when I suffered with depression. My most vivid memory of it was crying and shaking in my mums kitchen. I thought my world was over. That if I couldnt cope with the minor troubles of a 20 year old, with a good upbringing and a kind and loving family, then I had no hope for the future. I cried that I was only 20 and I already needed to see a "Shrink" and take anti-d's.

That was the day I went to see my GP. That was the day my life turned around. I got the help I desperately needed. I learnt coping strategies and I changed my whole outlook on the world.

The process was long and it was HARD. But I eventually managed to get off the anti-ds and I have never hit that low ever again. I have had ups and downs but I have not got down to the point I would say I was in a sustained depression since.

Not many people know about my depression. I dont broadcast it like a badge of honour. But I can honestly say I am not ashamed of it. If I was ever asked I would tell the truth. If someone started spouting off about depression I would tell them about my experiences. The fact that people would be suprised is a testament to how far I have come over the last 10 years and I am proud of it!

Accepting mental health issues is not the end of the road it is a beginning of a brand new one. I would guess that the actual stats of people who have suffered with some kind of mental health issue are even higher than 1 in 3 or 4. A lot of people are not so brave as you or I. They spend their time so busy tring to hide and supress the issues they never get dealt with.

I am finding the psychologist helpfull. I am not on any medication and have not been for a long time now. I mean people in general's thoughts about being ill.

Those that dont understand and dont want to understand are not worth worrying about. Those that dont have respect for you facing your issues head on are the ones with the problem.

The above are not as many as you fear!