YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

ashley--sorry so long responding--don't get to the boards often. how are you feeling lately? i understand that feeling well, unfortunately, of just wishing for any kind of relief. physical movement sometimes helps me get out of my own head temporarily--walks or yoga (not to diminish the seriousness ...

Thanks Stina! Love the quote on your icon. It's great advice. Unfortunately my low-fee therapist didn't work out so well, but I've got a new recommendation from a friend so might try that out in the new year. Nice to hear from you and thanks for the warmth.

i'm willing to bet good money that you aren't lazy and that there is hope for you. when i insult myself that way, one of my friends says to me 'Be nice to her!' meaning 'Be nice to You--you wouldn't talk about a good friend like that'. Sometimes it helps me not say mean things to myself. i often cal...

@weary--so glad to hear your wife is different, that's so crucial that she has an investment in getting better. i totally get what you're saying about 'how long to wait' though. i think the key might be the balance of just enough good times/ lighter days to keep you remembering why you love them, pl...

i think a lot of people can relate to your situation--difficulty making friends, depression. i know what it's like to feel like you're behind everyone else's schedules for life accomplishments. i still obsess about not owning a house or having a pension and i'm 36. i was married at 28...but divorcin...

i relate to this. i have few friends and the ones i have i can be critical of or just always feel awkward around. depression can be a real f***ng poison. i think you should try to re-connect to the friend you mentioned. maybe suggest the movies or something low-intensity to transition back into meet...

massive sympathy to all you graveyard shifters. it sucks to be penalized for being a good employee! i suppose in a recession it'd be dangerous to bluff an ultimatum would it? like saying 'if you want me to stay with your company, you'll need to change my shift'? kshannon--can the union do anything t...

hi ashley, oh my gosh what you have been through would test anyone's resolve. that's absolutely horrific. it is wonderful that you chose to continue living, and although it may not feel like a comfort, it shows a real strength that will help you grow into a better life for yourself in future. are yo...

hello and welcome. i relate to what you said about diet and exercise. when i'm doing what i should, things go smoothly. when i'm eating nothing but crap, that's guaranteed emotional problems right there. best of luck with your writing, sounds like it'll bring some meaning to your experience.

@kshannon--thanks so much. likewise, please message me if you need a sympathetic listener. @weary--thanks for sharing your experience. i know exactly what you are saying and appreciate the advice--i'm careful to tell my partner how much i appreciate him, i support him when I can, and try to be as st...