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40yo male 1st time mental illness

BlueDog1New Contributor30 June 2022, 10:19 am AEST

40yo male 1st time mental illness

Hi all, First time posting here, so just really having a look at the moment.

For the first time in my life I'm struggling with mental health.

I'm 40 now and as little as 12 months ago was fine. I felt 30, although I was 39.

Was fit and very easy going and social

Fast forward 12 months and I feel like crap.

1. I'm always tense and stressed and have some form of physical hurt (sore back, sore hips, tired)

2. I'm 40 but feel like 70 (fatigue and sore joints)

Been to docs and going again next week.

Had a few tests etc.

I'm trying to find ways to relax (gym, walking) but very hard outside work and family life.

Only time I feel fully relaxed is at 7pmish when I have a couple of glasses of red and wind down.

I knew when I turned 40, I'd start to slow down a bit etc....but not like this.

I feel 70.

I'm blaming covid for a lot of it.

There was a time I was stressing about it a lot.

I'm not sure if it's anxiety or I'm depressed but I'm working on it.

4 replies

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In response to: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

tymeModerator30 June 2022, 4:06 pm AEST

Re: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

Hi @BlueDog1 ,

Welcome to the forums! I'm glad you have been able to reach out and share some of what is happening for you at this time.

Have you had the opportunity to see a GP to discuss your concerns so as to rule out any underlying conditions?

In terms of your mental health, do you have any supports around you whom you can confide in?

It's true that COVID has played a part in people's mental health. I guess there were limited opportunities to connect with others. Now, do you connect with others in order to improve your mental health.

I hope you will find these forums helpful in connecting with others.

Kindest, tyme

In response to: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

ChristheartSenior Contributor30 June 2022, 9:14 pm AEST

Re: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

Hey @BlueDog1

It's really great that you've found the forums. This is a great place to talk about what you're going through and get some social support, anonymously!

I'm sorry you are going through this. Just know you aren't weak and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Mental illness doesn't discriminate, end of story.

I truly pray that things improve for you soon, that your GP gets to the bottom of this. There are lots of treatments routes available. Getting to the bottom of the cause of your pain is important too! I hope you can continue to get some exercise and eat well because that is helpful for recovery.

Warm regards

Christheart

In response to: Re: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

BlueDog1New Contributor01 July 2022, 12:07 pm AEST

Re: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

Thanks for support.

Been dealing with GP's and specialists the last 9 months.

Had had more tests during the week.

Gut issues mainly.

Thanks again.

In response to: Re: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

AppleblossomSenior Contributor01 July 2022, 12:58 pm AEST

Re: 40yo male 1st time mental illness

@BlueDog1

Passing into second phase of life brings up all sorts. The body is not quite as young. Coming to terms with mortality and all that. Hope the physical symptoms are not serious illness, and your approach works for you. Sometimes pushing too hard does not help ... just keep a little bit active til you know whats what with your joints.

Psychosocial stuff is also difficult. Makes sense you are weary at the end of a hard day.

Take Care and hope you find support and friends on the forum

Apple

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