Paul's blog about his experiences with depression.

Paul

I was first diagnosed with depression over ten years ago and started taking antidepressants in 2003. My depression escalated to severe depression in 2009 and I attempted suicide in August 2010.

My previous chosen profession was a telecoms consultant, which feels like a million years ago! I’m currently unemployed and claiming ESA (Employment Support Allowance). I want to help other sufferers of depression by telling my experiences; when I was ill I felt ever so lonely and I hope that others don’t have to feel the same. I enjoy watching football and rugby, I like to cook and love being outdoors.

You can find my own blog at http://no2negativity.blogspot.com/

Posts by Paul

The drugs don’t work

23 June 2011 | Posted by Paul | 0 comments
Topics: Someone who has experienced mental illness, Medication and therapies, Recovery

Since I’ve had depression I’ve continued to drink alcohol, occasionally used cannabis and used cocaine more than occasionally. It gets me wondering if my medication would have been more effective if I’d abstained from self medication.

Homeless

07 April 2011 | Posted by Paul | 0 comments
Topics: Someone who has experienced mental illness, Housing

In August 2009 I lost my job. Although I didn’t see the storm on the horizon, this marked the start of probably the worst period of my life and the onset of the darkest depression, which would be constant for the following year.