So last week, I was persuaded to go to the Doctor. I have been ‘out and proud’ about my mental health since suffering two episodes of psychosis in my late teens.
But I didn’t realise I was still ashamed. Happy to be medication free since 2003, (and not just because it rhymes), over the 14 years since I have tried a range of things to stay off the daily tablets.
- Counselling x3
- Diazepam (for the bad days)
- Meditation
- Leaning on friends
- Maintaining a tinylife
Last week, it became clear that my less-than-good mental health is not something that is going away any time soon. I thought I didn’t care about the stigma. I do care. But not enough to risk my health and the wellbeing of those around me.
So, I’m back on the tablets. And I’m getting on with my tinylife.
Stella Hervey Birrell 
You just take what you need when you need – that’s what medicine is about whether for physical or mental health xx
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Yes absolutely Joanne! I think I wanted to appear well more than I wanted to ‘be’ well, in the end. I’m feeling loads better, so it was definitely the right decision. Thanks for reading! Xx
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Love your courage Stella. I “confidently” tell people I’m on anti-depressants but all the while I watch for signs that they think less of me. I don’t know if there is a stigma, or if I only think there is. But I’m going to keep being honest, because my mental health is me. *high five*
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Yes! It’s not as common for people to be open about mental health stigma, for sure. I’m glad you are out and proud too – I’m in a great team! Thanks for reading xx
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The stigma is other people’s reactions. I’ve got more thinks thoughts but my brain’s fuddled. But ultimately, sometimes you can wait a headache out, sometimes you need ibuprofen. And there shouldn’t be a difference between dealing with physical or mental health illness. And one day, there won’t be.
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I totally agree Jack. It was funny to realise that I’d been waiting out the headache for so long! Feeling loads better in myself now.
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