Something that lingered with me after Mondays meeting was how depression and anxiety impacted on my working life. If I think honestly my "difficulties" have definitely held me back from pursuing a career. I don't think I would be where I am today if I hadn't of had my "problems". It's a shame but it's not something I dwell on or get frustrated over now I have learned to accept where I am and although it's not the career of my dreams, I am happy with the job I do and glad I've taken some risks to get to where I am.
When I think back to how I've been treated by those who have "managed" me in the work place, I can find no fault! That's maybe because I've done a pretty good job of hiding the stuff that goes on in my head, I've been successful at that at least! On the rare occasion, when I've opened up to a work college about my "mental health condition" they have looked at me with disbelief!
Looking at the paths I've taken during my life so far, it seems to me that depression and anxiety have took both my hands and lead me to places that I've really not wanted to go to, but I still went, if not that willingly. But recently I have been putting up some resistance. I'm being more obstinate. There's the anxiety and depression beckoning me to go with them this way and I am turning round and going in the opposite direction! Whoopee I can do this on my own, I don't need ay guidance from them,. Although I may give them a backward glance from time to time!
Talking about how we can be treated in the work place I have uploaded a booklet from Rethink Mental Illness entitled "What's reasonable at work" which may be of interest.
Next Monday evening meeting at St Aidan Church is on 23rd February. Then again on Thursday Morning 26th Feb at JT's Cafe
Hope the coming weeks are kind to you all !
Ruth D