“A problem shared is a problem halved” – Joshua’s story

Joshua is currently in a psychiatric unit for young people, getting treatment for anxiety and depression. He shares his favourite DBT (dialectic behavioural therapy) skills when managing distress.

Anxiety, autism and depression are conditions I have been dealing with for a number of years. After being in a SEN (special educational needs) school and figuring out it wasn’t the right environment for me, I’ve had multiple interventions over the years, including around the clock carers, visits from CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) and the ongoing education team from the Educatch charity.

But my biggest support has been from my family network, especially my mum and auntie. They have supported me through all my highs and lows, and have always been by my side when I needed them. I couldn’t be any more thankful for them. 

I am currently an inpatient at a psychiatric hospital and have made many forward steps since being admitted five months ago. I have been able to keep myself safe compared to when I first entered the hospital, and can now verbalise to staff when I am feeling tempted to do something that I know would have negative repercussions.

We have an ongoing project in the hospital right now: colouring and designing bags or t-shirts to promote mental health awareness. I love completing these bags, as I have a passion for spreading mental health awareness and colouring them in keeps me calm.

I also run a TikTok account based on spreading mental health awareness to allow others to feel less alone, as well as giving them direction to find help if they require it. This is an important message to me as this has benefited me greatly in the past, and it makes me happy knowing I’m helping as many people as possible. 

DBT skills, like holding ice, sour sweets, box breathing and hot showers, were methods I found to be particularly effective at calming me down when I am heightened. I also find communicating, and feeling like I’m actually being heard, helps me to feel better and to regulate my emotions. Communication is always the answer as a problem shared is a problem halved. You should never be afraid to say how you are feeling as that’s the only way people can help you to deal with it.