I decided to send this note to everyone at Sussex MSK Partnership (central) where I work. A tiny contribution to challenging stigma.
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Dear friends and colleagues
This is to let you know that I am going through a bad bout of anxiety and depression.
It may be due to withdrawal effects as I tried to come off my meds. It is proving another very hard time.
I want at least to break the stigma by saying this because I know a lot of others at work who sometimes go through similar problems.
And I don't think in our society we talk about it enough or support each other adequately - there is still a taboo and people do not know how to talk about it. We call it stress at best. And it is still regarded as a weakness - more so than physical health problems. I worry a lot about perceptions people have of my capability when I also know I am damn good at my job and have lots of talents. As everyone with mental health issues does too - sometimes I think we are just more sensitive to life. We have gifts - but also burdens.
I have managed to write about it a bit here https://futurepatientblog.com/2018/03/26/abg-three-ways-i-try-to-cope/ and have managed to carry on working a bit every day. But it's not easy
At the moment, I will need to work from home and do as much as I can. I have several reports to write and will do my utmost to hit the correct deadlines.
You are welcome to try and call me or email me. It is good to feel connected. But I may be slow in response.
It's often hard to know what to say to someone in emotional distress. But I won't take offence to things if it's an awkward conversation. I don't want to be treated with kid gloves. Or be patronised! 🙂 Just with a bit of care and consideration. As you would.
And please feel free to share this with others.
Mental health problems are horrible. Let's talk about them if we need to and look after ourselves and each other.
I hope this message finds you well. Let's be gentle and kind to ourselves and others.
Best wishes
David