Stuart Baker-Brown was diagnosed with schizophrenia thirteen years ago. His condition was triggered a few years before this when he found himself falling into a world of anxiety and fear.
Out There is one of Time to Change’s project in Cumbria, and helps to
promote mental wellbeing by using the unique outdoor environment of the Lake District for a range of activities. Ian has been involved with the project first as a service user, and now as a staff member.
Patsy Palmer was watched by millions, but the pressure of life eventually took their toll.
“I had so much going on in my life at the time.” On her way to work one day, Patsy had a panic attack. The next morning Patsy woke up in a clinic, not knowing how she’d got there.
Ulrika Jonsson has experienced depression and panic attacks on a few occasions in her life.
“Despite having bright, wonderful children and a house I can call my own, I found myself in some real low points. I didn’t want to wake up in the mornings, I found it so hard to cope.”
Stephen Fry has experienced mental health problems for much of his life. But it wasn't until he was 37 that he was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder. "I'd never heard the word before, but for the first time I had a diagnosis that explains the massive highs and miserable lows I've lived with all my life."
Ruby Wax has experienced episodes of depression for most of her life, but it wasn't until she finally checked into a clinic, that she realised how widespread mental problems are: "It's so common, it could be anyone. The trouble is, nobody wants to talk about it. And that makes everything worse."
Yvonne had a full social life and lots of friends. But then she started having difficulties – mood swings and confusion. She was diagnosed with schizo-affective disorder.
Stevie got a big shock when he was diagnosed with schizophrenia. "People think it means you're going to be violent, and I can understand it in a way, because I didn't have a very positive image of it either. Thing is, for me it couldn’t be further from the truth – I'm a total softy."
