Soon I concluded that for me to get better, my friends and teachers needed to know what I was going through. Fortunately I was on good terms with my form tutor who appeared sensitive and understanding. Indeed, this proved to be the case when one day I stayed behind to discuss the problems that I had been having. (Matt)
Depression: "I am a stronger person... because I talked about it"
How can I help?
The aim of the Time to Change campaign is to encourage us all to be more open about our mental health, and to start conversations with those who might need our support.
Why not find out how you could start a conversation about mental health?
You could share a blog story to raise awareness. You could sign up to receive Time to Change emails. And, you might want to add your name to our pledge wall, joining the thousands of people who are taking small steps to be more open about mental health.
Personal blogs from young people with experience of mental health problems
The following blog posts are written by young people with personal experience of mental health problems. By talking openly, our bloggers hope to increase understanding around mental health, break down stereotypes and take the taboo out of something that – like physical health – affects us all.
The routine of life, the knowledge of how good and bad days affect us (particular people with mental health difficulties) and the way people with mental health issues can be judged. One thing I have learnt most though is who I can truly trust and rely upon.
I suffer with a mental illness called Dermatillomania, a body focused repetitive behaviour, which is a continuous compulsion to pick at your skin. It began in my early teens, around age 13, when I started to get acne just like any other teenager.