It's interesting how many regular posters on OLO have mental health problems. In a press release I received today, dNet CEO Leanne Pethick says "It is essential that people living with depression have the opportunity to safely communicate with other people they can relate to and understand. Education about the condition, information on symptoms and treatment options, access to quality professional treatments and the ability to access peer support and encouragement are all important elements in the recovery process." That's certainly my experience, and after being socially and professionally disengaged for some years, I've found posting on OLO a good way ro re-engage. Of course, it doesn't substitute for face-to-face interaction, but it's a stepping stone. And writing pseudonymously on economic and political issues reduces the risk of further attack from those whose actions precipitated my depression.

As a result of posting on OLO, I got asked to contribute to some economic work which is directly related to my former tormentors, a chance both to assess my current capacity (not too great, although the work I did was up to standard) and the possibility of re-engaging face-to-face (not quite ready with my former employers). But moving in the right direction, now coping without anti-depressants.

Faustino, Yes I agree with you this Forum is the perfect transition for those able to progress, and those of us not yet able to do so.

The surpriseing thing for me is how many of us are this way because of our past employment of stress related conditions. I would have sued my former employer if I had recovered enough in the 7 years you are given to sue. In my case I couldn't even get out of bed [except fot toileting] for 9 months. And even now could not tolerate a court case if my life depended on it.

If you are indeed in transition, congratulations to you, I have "come out" in my local newspaper, admitting my illness, as I have nothing to lose, or gain, however my intention was to break down the barriers, and surprise, surprise I recieved support from the general community, and Vietnam Vetrans in particular. It seems Mental Illness could be even more prevelant than first thought.

Which of course adds to my curiousity re Federal funding, to the State health Depts. We don't need Beyond Blue, we need more Health professionals to help us fight this debilitating illness, and we need them now.

Nicholas

Thank you for your timely article.

To all posters: thank you for sharing your mental health and mental illness experiences.

I have been a mental health nurse since 1978 - the love of my life. Sadly, I was put out to pasture 2003 as a result of another work nursing injury (seven knee ops as a result of mental health nursing). I am now am on a disability benefit and totally lost. Mental health nursing was my love and my identity.

I became a senior lecturer in mental health nursing at a southern university some years ago. Loved it with a passion - but left because of academic bullying.

My last years were in community mental health nursing. Loved it with a passion. My clinical skills were honed beyond belief over a five year period. I was privileged to assist people, such as yourselves.

I also have experienced mental illness in my family. My sister-in-law suicided leaving a 5 months old bub and and 18 months infant. My brother and the children are still suffering, as is my mother.

I can also identify with depression and panic attacks after having been bashed and gang raped.

Sadly, the above traumaatic experiences made me a much better mental health nurse.

I miss working with people who have mental health problems. When the heat is over, I shall be volunteering to assist people.

I have the qualifications to become an independent mental health practitioner, but QHealth will not help me.

Go to a community mental health centre. I was a case manager for 5 years. I was the person who recommended treatment plans to psychiatrists - not vice versa. I was the one who recommended psychologists - not vice versa. I worked closely with both professional groups on behalf of my clients. There is no cost. You do not need a referral to a community mental health service. I cannot understand the reason that so many of you do not realise that you are entitled to same.

Cheers
Kay

Shonga, re suing employers, my work-related depression came on top of (and prevented my recovery from) serious long term viral illnesses (shingles, Ross River fever, post-viral syndrome (that's CFS with a known cause)), and I was strongly advised on all sides that I was in no fit state to take on anybody, and that if I tried I would get a vindictive response. I also knew I'd be faced with lies and character assassination. In the end, I just had to walk away, it was the only way I could resolve it, and started to pick up then (two years ago). But I'll never have a regular job again.

They Actually found a way to make money out of these people. They get volunteers and call them councilers for god sake and stick them on phones and call it life line and others. Then of course they fund raise and fund raise. These good people are not allowed to meet anybody[even the old and lonely] or a young girl of 15 on the side of the road for fear they will loose the hold on donations. People need face to face support if they are upset. Thats what mental health is all about but they have turned it into a biz with no thought for helping anybody other than themselves.

The sad fact is to fight for and receive compensation one has to be mentally and physically 'strong' - which is the last thing a claimant is during depressive/anxiety illness. Character assasination is only a part of it. Attempting to claim compensation can exacerbate the illness. The 'powers-that-be' treat everyone as if they are fraudulent, leaving the genuine cases in a mess.

For that reason, I did not seek to sue my last employer - I had had enough. It is another reason why I will not seek permanent employment - temp work will be enough and that way I can keep out of 'office politics'.

Kalweb - I don't know about your community health centres where you are, but here (Victoria) they are minimal and do not offer the long term psychological counselling and therapy required. Why should I not be able to continue seeing a psychologist with whom I had established 18 months of trust, knowledge and understanding? With community centres if you can see someone it is not always the same person, it is not indepth and it is not long term.

I am so tired of repeating myself to new counsellors - I am seeing someone now but she is not my preference. I am starting all over again. This is one of the reasons why recovery becomes so difficult.

Shonga agree with you about Beyond Blue - it is Beyond Contempt and offers nothing for those who are experiencing mental illness. Whenever I hear Kennett waffle on about it I could scream.

Finally, however, I too find websites like this to be very beneficial. Being able to offer opinions and finding like minded people is wonderful. I don't mind those who disagree - even the nasty ones as they are generally on the extreme fringe any way.

Cheers