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Introduction

patrickTSenior Contributor

Introduction

I just would like to introduce myself to you all as I would like to contribute as much as possible.

I'm a 26 year old male with PTSD, Bipolar type 2, anxiety and depression and drug depdendency.

I've been clean for nearly three years now and am hoping to be employed in mental health. I have 2 degrees, one in public health and one in writing and cultural studies. I'm a competitive powerlifter and write in a blog about mental health detailing my struggles with addiction. I have a beautiful girlfriend and a beautiful dog which are my two most grounding things in my recovery. I currently work at an aquarium and want to pursue my job further in mental health. I've spent time posting in other mental health forums but following the death of my sister have found it hard to contribute significantly but have tried to be quite active in the last few days.

From what I've posted recently I've recognised that these forums seem to be quite close-knit and I really enjoy that. I really love the social aspect of forums and hope to be able to give something back based on my own experiences of recovery. I've fought long and hard to be where I am today and I welcome any questions regarding my own mental issues and hopefully I can guide some people in positive pathways. I think empathy is the greatest emotion in relating to people suffering and if we possess positive knowledge then we should share it to alleviate whatever plight suffered by another.

Hoping to become friends with everyone else on the forums and I'm keen to answer any questions directed.

Much love and best wishes to all that read this.

Pat.

7 replies

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In response to: Introduction

soulSenior Contributor

Re: Introduction

Hi @patrickT - congratulations on winning the battle you have to become content with your life. It isn't an easy thing to do at times. Sorry to hear about your sister's passing. I hope you are able to process her grief. I lost my mother last month so I know how debilitating that can be.

It sounds like you have a lot to contribute and I'm sure we would love to hear about how you have dealt with your mental illness and substance abuse. You're spot on stating that the people on this forum are close. We support and care for each other and I have benefitted in immeasurable ways.

I hope you do get to work in your chosen field some time soon. I think your experience will ensure you have that empathy that is so important and a very value insight into what it is to live with mental illness.

In response to: Re: Introduction

Unknown userMember

Re: Introduction

Hi @patrickT and welcome,

Sincerely sorry for your loss. So pleased to read about your victory over drug dependency - my daughter is currently addicted to drugs as a way of escape and it is destroying her causing relentless self destruction and misery in so many ways. I wish she could meet someone like you for postive direction. I wish you every success in your endeavours to work in the mental health field. Compassion is that inner strength that heals the deepest places - not only for the receiver but also for those who give it I have experienced.

In response to: Re: Introduction

Unknown userMember

Re: Introduction

Hi again @patrickT
thankyou for sharing some of your story, Ive been reading a lot of your posts and have found them insightful and caring, I'm very glad you've joined our community. I'm glad to hear that the care and support that can be found here is evident to people joining as well 🙂
My condolences on the loss of your sister, that would be very difficult.
I look forward to 'seeing' you around the forums!

In response to: Introduction

JohnSContributor

Re: Introduction

Hi Patrick

I have only just registered on the forum. I have Bipolar and have been through a struggle with mental illness. I will add my introduction soon. However, I know where you are coming from Pat, and I think that you are success story. I am looking forward to getting to know you and share my journey with you and help where I can.

All the best

John.S

In response to: Re: Introduction

marchhareSenior Contributor

Re: Introduction

Hi JohnS, it is Marchhare. I am one of the moderators here. Welcome to the forums and thank you for your support of a fellow member. We look forward to hearing your introduction

In response to: Introduction

Unknown userMember

Re: Introduction

welcome @patrickT @JohnS

Your post Patrick is very inspiring for anyone struggling albeit drugs, alcohol, addiction of any kind, mental illness.

Thank you for taking the time to share your story. A very unselfish, compassionate act to have empathy for others.

I too am pleased to read your thoughts on the great support given on here to each other. It does take much energy and can be very draining through no fault of anyone just the nature of our situations.

I do hope that even though you feel you have come so far, you continue to think of your own health and welfare. take some of the compassion and empathy given for yourself.

John, a heartwarming response from you also. Again so thankful to see new people on here feel comfortable in talking about their situations and feeling safe.

We all started once and know how hard it is.

Lastly, there are fewer males on here than females. I have two sons who have both had battles and I feel comforted by the fact that you are able to open up and feel safe. You can be encouraging for others.

Have a look around all of the threads, there are some amusing ones also. We all need to chill, have a laugh and be less serious when we can.

In response to: Re: Introduction

JohnSContributor

Re: Introduction

thanks Mohill
Glad to be on board
Best wishes
John
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SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

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