Julia's story | in Case Study Pressures at work started to build up and I had to take time off with stress. After three months the stress turned into depression.
Sarah's story | in Case Study I don’t know why I experience depression. What is important is that I now recognise it as an illness, rather than seeing myself as a useless failure, and can therefore recover to better health.
Changing perspectives | in Blog Post Depression awareness week: A mental health nurse shares his experience of struggling to interpret his own signs of depression.
My own war | in Blog Post In our last depression awareness week post, Andy describes his struggle with depression, antidepressants and self harm.
A ludicrous idea | in Blog Post When a friend of mine suggested that I ought to look at joining a gym I could not think of anything I would be less likely to do.
Jump for Mind - Jenny's story | in Blog Post I was planning a sky dive with colleagues as a personal challenge and fundraising exercise and after my mum died I decided to organise a jump for Mind.
Supporting those in crisis | in Blog Post Our second of three blogs from Peter, who works on our information helpline. A lot of the calls Peter receives are from friends, families and carers who are worried about someone they know.
Not just a girl's disease... | in Blog Post Mark speaks about his experiences with anorexia nervosa for Eating Disorders Awareness Week and for Mind's new report on men and mental health.
How I was labelled unfit for work | in Blog Post Why should a depressive episode in the past be treated any differently to other health conditions? The first in our series of blogs on mental health at work.
Working with bipolar disorder | in Blog Post "Telling my employer about my diagnosis was one of the scariest things I have ever done." Lexy shares her experiences 'coming out' in work situations. Part of our series on mental health at work.
Borderline personality disorder and work | in Blog Post "Long before I even knew the name of the condition I was living with, I was acutely aware of how I just didn’t seem to ‘fit’ in the workplace." A guest post from Kayla - part of our blog series on mental health at work.
Small steps to improve mental health at work | in Blog Post We all have a responsibility to support people in the workplace during both good times and bad. Andrea Woodside talks about the things we can do to be more supportive. Part of our mental health at work series.
My experience of depression at work | in Blog Post "Once I had admitted my depression to senior managers, I thought my career would be over." John is a Partner at Deloitte. He was surprised at how supportive his workplace and colleagues were during a time of crisis.
Let’s talk about ... suicide | in Blog Post Charlotte on why it's crucial to talk about suicidal thoughts: "The times when I have found someone willing to listen to me, rather than trying to 'talk me out of it', have been a great relief."
A space to level out | in Blog Post Stuart Semple blogs about how art helps him cope with his fears: "I’m Stuart Semple and I’m fearful that I’m allergic to life."
Mr Elastic Brain | in Blog Post Douglas Cairns, AKA Sid Ozalid, talks about the road from punk poet to corporate high-flyer, his new book and how he learned to balance his mental health with a high-pressure job.
The liberating force of creativity | in Blog Post My name is Aldrick Monteiro, and I have been writing poetry on and off for about 30 years. I have also been suffering with schizophrenia for nearly 40 years.
Art as psychotherapy | in Blog Post Laura blogs about her experiences of art psychotherapy: "I saw my referral to art therapy as a soft option."
Blogging about anorexia | in Blog Post Carrie on how blogging and the community she found online has helped with her recovery: "I never thought my body would be able to run in this race after all that it has been through."
My experience with the black dog | in Blog Post Martin talks about his experience of depression and how his dog Moose has helped him through. “I love the simplicity he brings to life: sleeping when he needs to sleep, running when he wants to run, being happy when he is happy"
Feeling better outside: Ecominds and Thames21 | in Blog Post After experiencing long periods of physical and mental illness, Simon Reddecliffe joined Thames21’s Ecominds project to restore some self-confidence. The experience transformed his life for the better.
My journey into work - part 2 | in Blog Post Alison has started working again after 13 years on incapacity benefits. In this blog Alison struggles with self value, in work benefits and making mistakes.
Why MoneySupermarket ran for Mind | in Blog Post Clare blogs about supporting Mind in memory of her husband, Mark Hanson: "The support I’ve received over the last seven months has been incredible."
Experience into practice: working in mental health | in Blog Post Ally, who has personal experience of mental health problems, is training to be a clinical psychologist: "I see my experiences as giving me a unique perspective that helps me to generate ideas about how I can better meet individuals' needs."
Painting emotions: art and mental health | in Blog Post For contemporary artist Dale Grimshaw, painting has been a lifesaver. Here, he writes about how painful early experiences inform his work.
Readers may find some sections of this blog triggering.
The secret work of Mind | in Blog Post Tracey shares her experiences of bipolar, depression and working with Mind: "I had never met anyone so kind, supportive and non-judgemental that genuinely wanted to help me."
Meet Me in Winter | in Blog Post Katie blogs about how being open about her diagnosis of bipolar disorder has helped her to cope. This inspired her project Meet Me in Winter which brings people together and encourages them to share their stories.
Counselling saved my life | in Blog Post Sharon shares her experience of therapy at a local Mind: "Every time I went for my therapy I found the people there warm, kind, and most importantly non-judgemental, which was the most important part."
I can't see into the future | in Blog Post Even sympathetic employers can sometimes find it hard to understand mental health problems. This blog vividly illustrates some of the barriers to disclosing a mental health problem at work .
PMDD and me | in Blog Post Cat writes about the struggle she went through to get a diagnosis of pre menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and how she uses her creativity as an outlet.
My creative therapy | in Blog Post Agata, who has been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, describes how art has provided an important creative outlet, soothing her symptoms and helping her through life.
Digital Stories - One Year On | in News Story Mind Cymru launches four new digital stories this St David's Day. They were made by four people living with a mental health problems as part of a digital storytelling course.
My dark companion | in Blog Post Beccy blogs about her struggle with depression: "My dark companion may always be with me but I refuse to let it define who I am."
Cycle of recovery | in Blog Post Graeme blogs about how he is fulfilling his dream of cycling the entire coast of the UK, raising money and awareness along the way.
I couldn’t pretend anymore | in Blog Post When Sandra was struggling with cancer and depression, it was her mental health problems that those around her found most difficult to deal with. Here, she blogs about the support she found through her local Mind.
A mother's story | in Blog Post Sarah opens up about her postnatal mental health problems and the distressing and confusing feelings she had for her infant daughter.
Earthquakes and aftershocks | in Blog Post In this guest post, Karl blogs about getting through the 'earthquakes' of the mind, and why it's important to plan for your darkest days.
Talking about BPD | in Blog Post Amy blogs about the experiences that led to her diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, and why the stigma surrounding it makes it so hard to open up. Please be aware that this post includes discussion of suicidal thoughts.
26.2 reasons why I run | in Blog Post This Sunday, Liz will run the London Marathon in memory of her mum, who took her own life 12 years ago. Here, she celebrates all those who've been by her side as she prepares for the challenge.
A marathon for dad | in Blog Post Despite only recently recovering from an ankle injury, Kate will be running the London Marathon today in memory of her dad. Here, she blogs about her journey to the starting line.
Snapped out of it! | in Blog Post In depression awareness week Esther, winner of our autumn photo competition for Ecominds, tells us about how she uses photography to help keep her depression in check.
Being a face of Mind | in Blog Post Polly, who took part in a Mind photo shoot in October last year, talks to Laura about how the experience gave her the confidence to be open about her mental health.
Let's Befriends: volunteering at Mind | in Blog Post Back in 2010 I was going through a particularly challenging time – a breakdown of a relationship, health problems and subsequently a very low mood - so I decided to give and connect with people through volunteering.
Did you hear that? | in Blog Post How is it that, for some, hearing a voice or voices can be a helpful and useful experience when for others, the same experience of hearing voices can be such a challenging one?
End of an era | in Blog Post Tracey blogs about change and the support she has got from Mind: "There have been times when the voices within have been telling me that I need to stop and take a breather."
Living through a bipolar blip | in Blog Post Abby blogs for us through a manic phase: "I miss the exuberance, the awesome never-ending energy it gives you but I don’t miss the lack of control."
Finding the strength | in Blog Post Hannah blogs about struggling with suicidal feelings, depression and self harm: "I desperately want these dark feelings to go away so I can get on with my life and to be young and carefree."
That's one small step for Mind. | in Blog Post Angela blogs on taking up the 10,000 steps challenge: "I’m in no way sporty, but this just encouraged me to walk or cycle a little bit more each day."
Liz - my inspirational sister | in Blog Post Liz fought hard to overcome anorexia and depression. She used her own experiences to help people dealing with similar problems. Now her sister Rachel is taking on the Three Peaks challenge in her memory.
Letting go of 'that' secret | in Blog Post For years Amy felt that her anxiety was embarrassing - something that needed to be kept hidden. Here she blogs about letting go of that feeling of shame.
Managing self harm on my own terms | in Blog Post In a follow up to her post about starting talking therapy with her local Mind, Laura blogs about how this support is helping her to manage her anxiety and thoughts of self harm.
The loneliness of OCD | in Blog Post "I felt embarrassed putting the horrible thoughts that exist inside my head on a daily basis, into words for other people to hear." The Girl With A Hat blogs about how she deals with it and how she helps herself.
Living with me and my OCD | in Blog Post Freelance filmmaker, Claire, blogs for us on what it is like to live with OCD and shares her film 'Living with me and my OCD.'
Review of A little bit OCD - more than being tidy | in Blog Post The Girl with Hat reviews last night's show by Jon Ricardson on Channel 4 "Jon talked honestly and openly about his own compulsive behaviours [and] the 3 other stories told did not shy away from the severity of OCD"
The endorphin rush | in Blog Post Tracey blogs about how exercise and eating well have helped her to feel healthier and happier, thanks to a positive recommendation by her GP.
"Pull yourself together" | in Blog Post Kafayat blogs for us on her experiences of post natal depression and the difficulties in gaining support from family and friends.
Living with Bipolar | in Blog Post Liz blogs today on her experience of living with Bipolar. She talks about her experiences of mania and how she is able to manage her condition.
Rules of engagement, mental health and the internet | in Blog Post After experiencing depression and setting up her own blog in 2010, Vanessa is now researching online writing and mental health. Here, she shares her tips for making online interaction a mentally healthy experience.
My battle with schizophrenia and depression | in Blog Post Misty blogs for us about how being bullied at school became the start of a long battle with depression, schizophrenia and self harm. Now largely in recovery, she has a message for others who are struggling.
A letter to suicidal me | in Blog Post "There should be someone to give you a hug right now. There should be someone to give you the care that you deserve." Amanda blogs on World Suicide Prevention Day. Please be aware, the following blog may trigger so please read carefully.
Me vs. suicide - today I win | in Blog Post Student nurse Jojo, shares with us the story of her battle against suicide and why today, she is the winner. Please note this blog contains frank discussion of suicidal thoughts and may trigger so please read carefully.
A tough transition | in Blog Post Today Anna shares her story of how moving from child mental health services to adult mental health services gave her the determination she needed to move towards recovery.
Living with TTM | in Blog Post This week is National No Pulling Week to raise awareness of trichotillomania, or TTM, a disorder that I suffer with which means I pull out my hair.
Coping with stigma | in Blog Post Thomas blogs for us about the horrible treatment he received whilst struggling with a mental health problem. He shares the positive changes he’s made in his life and how he was able to get there.
A diary of mindfulness, week one - automatic pilot | in Blog Post In the first of her series on mindfulness and depression, Clare blogs about our tendency to go into auto pilot in our daily lives - and suggests some things you can try to make your day more mindful.
How do I articulate the daily struggle? | in Blog Post Today's blog is from Annabelle, who talks about how hard she finds it to describe the reality of living with mental health problems. Please note that this blog contains reference to suicidal feelings, which some people may find triggering.
Crisis talks | in Blog Post To begin this autumn's campaign for more and better crisis care services, Alicia blogs about why she feels crisis care saved her life.
Waiting in crisis | in Blog Post Rachel blogs for us about her experience of waiting in A&E for crisis care. She talks about being kept waiting late at night in an intimidating setting and the impact this had on her experience in crisis.
Sharing the rollercoaster ride | in Blog Post Today Lucy opens up about her own personal rollercoaster ride; the challenges she's had getting good care after coming out of hospital, and how important her friends and partner have been through this difficult time.
Studying with depression | in Blog Post Today we hear how one student copes with depression whilst studying at university. They talk about the fear of moving to a new town, managing the demands of academic life and the importance of having support around you.
Walk a mile in my shoes | in Blog Post Last year Chris set out on an epic walk around Britain to raise money for charity and to prove that, despite what you sometimes read in the papers, people still care.
How I learnt Mental Health First Aid | in Blog Post A staggering ten thousand people across Wales have now been trained in Mental Health First Aid. Rebecca from Aberystwyth was one of them and today she reveals what it was like to take the course.
Homeless | in Blog Post Jules blogs for us about her experience of being discharged from hospital to appalling homeless shelter conditions. She also shares a personal victory she has achieved in campaigning for change.
Hearing voices | in Blog Post Lucy blogs about her experience of hearing voices, she describes what it was like for her growing up, how she was able to talk to friends about it and how she manages now.
Challenging depression, Rocky style | in Blog Post Lucy Fry takes on a white collar boxing match in aid of Mind: "...until I signed up to box, the biggest fight of my life has been one that’s taken place against myself."
I waited and waited, the staff were just too busy | in Blog Post James blogs in support of our crisis care campaign, he talks about the horrible experience of waiting in A&E, waiting to be seen, waiting for support and waiting for someone to show him kindness and compassion in crisis.
I just wanted to be taken seriously | in Blog Post Kate blogs about her experience of approaching crisis and seeking support from A&E, she talks about her struggle to be taken seriously and treated with the reassurance and kindness she needed.
The spirit of Christmas past | in Blog Post Amy outlines how painful Christmas was for her one year. She didn't have anyone to talk to about the utter despair she was trying to get through.
The Christmas feeling | in Blog Post Not everyone looks forward to the festive period. Here, Tracey blogs about how she gets away from it all through work or volunteering - and finds that there are different ways to come together at Christmas.
When everything changed | in Blog Post Terry shares his story of how major depression and panic disorder changed his life, and how he's using fundraising as part of his treatment.
The importance of information | in Blog Post Today Thomas blogs for us about the importance of good quality legal information and why he feels it would have made a difference for him.
How the Mind Infoline helped me in crisis | in Blog Post Adam blogs about the difficulties he experienced accessing crisis care in his local area. He talks about how it felt to be turned away and how the Mind Infoline helped him get the support he needed.