Under Construction - MHWA Retreat

What is the best and worst advice you've received regarding your mental health?
Well. I'm not sure whether this was good or bad advice, but a long time ago (probably, about eighteen years), I was really struggling. I was only getting about two hours sleep a night and I was desperate for sleep. I'd tried sleeping pills and anti-depressants with sedatives in them, but nothing helped. My doctor (like, properly trained professional!) suggested I smoke a spliff before bed Like, seriously. So, yeah. Odd advice from a GP, but good or bad? I'm not sure. I didn't try it (although, I was smoking most nights anyway).
As far as bad advice goes, I think the CPN who told me to think of something else whenever disturbing thoughts enter my mind. You know, just do it. If only it was that easy. Surely, no one would have mental health issues if that were the case.

What advice would you give to a friend struggling with the same issues as you?
I would tell them to hold on. Rather than focus on all the scary things you have to do in the coming days and weeks, just focus on today. And when it comes to the end of the day, congratulate yourself on whatever you've achieved; even if it's just getting through the day. I would say to give themselves a break. I would say they are beautiful, talented people, and tell them I love them. I would ask them to promise to ring me, 999, the Samaritans; someone if they feel they will do something to harm themselves. I would tell them I will love them whatever and that they are absolutely good enough. I would say it does get better, and sometimes the easiest way to achieve that is to just ride out the depression. The wave will rise and come toward us, but then it will die down and gradually fade out. Just ride it, don't try to fight it, and it will probably pass easier that way. Finally, I would ask them to see their friends as often as possible. It's important to not lose their contact. I would ask them to try to leave the house every day. Even if it's just for a ten minute walk.


Is it even a good idea for a layman to give advice on mental health issues, or should that be left to the professionals?
I absolutely think 'laymen' can give mental health advice. Because we aren't 'laymen.' We are people with actual experience of mental illness, which is something a lot of the professionals cannot say. I mean, I think a lot of professionals know mental illness from what they read in books and study in med school. Yes, they also hear accounts from patients. But it's still not the same as first-hand experience. That's not to say non-medical professionals should advise on medication. That should be left up to professionals. But, how to get through each day. I think anyone who has suffered can offer advice on that.