I'm Dean, I'm 41, I work at a wholesaler. In my spare time I write comic strips, and help my wife with her Community Project. And I have OCD. I'm pretty sure it came on at age 7, when my Dad left us. Before that, I was very open, full of jokes, but afterwards I went quiet. My Mam noticed a little while later, when the...
Personal stories about mental health
Mental health problems affect 1 in 4 people every year and no one should feel ashamed. By sharing our experiences, together we can end the stigma.
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August 18, 2017
I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety when I was 16 years old and started counselling sessions. I was so ashamed of it, that I would lie about where I was going. I didn’t want people to know I was having counselling, in case they labelled me “crazy” or “insane”. I didn’t feel comfortable enough in my counselling...
August 16, 2017
Talking about it is such a relief, although it has taken me two decades to realise it. My story started when I was a child. Witnessing my incredible Mother experience two horrific mental breakdowns really affected me more than I could ever recognise being so young. I couldn't understand why she would be in tears on a daily...
August 14, 2017
Dealing with depression and anxiety can cause a multitude of different side effects. It can turn you into a completely different person; one that your friends and family wouldn’t even recognise. My issue seemed to be my short temper and snappy outbursts. When I was once a relaxed and calm individual that enjoyed the slower...