When I was in my mid-twenties (sometime in the Bronze Age), I saw a psychiatrist about my moods. I was so disillusioned with the experience that I decided, as only a brash and moronic young male could, that I would be better off taking care of my own mental illness.

And that’s exactly what I did. For the next 25 years.

Not that I did it alone. Oh no, I took my wife and kids along for the ride. Lucky buggers.

It was the dumbest decision of my life.

25-years later, I did what I should’ve done a week after my first failed foray with a psychiatrist, I saw another one.

He’s great and he gradually helped me get my life back in order.

So please, if you’re not feeling great or you suspect someone you know may not be travelling well, DO SOMETHING! See a GP or talk to that someone you’re concerned about. Speak up and seek help, starting with a good GP.

Because as I’ve finally learned, mental illness is only that – an illness. And illnesses can be managed or even better, cured.

To do nothing is to be a fool. And I should know.

Here’s a great link to help you get started if you think you need help:

https://headtohealth.gov.au/supporting-yourself/seeking-support