Thanks for your kind comments, Bigboyuk I really appreciate it. I've put off getting help for so many years for fear of being laughed at or patronised but I realise what a ridiculous error that was, I've met so many lovely people who have really put a lot of effort into my recovery. I feel genuinely touched by how much help I've been offered and the kindness shown to me by strangers. If I ever get well enough I want to work for Mind and spread the support about a bit more.
I have been placed on medication (citalopram), I'm awaiting referral for counselling and I'm doing a CCI on panic at my local Mind centre, with all sorts of other courses in the pipeline. I'm having a go at everything in the hope that something sticks. I have support from my GP, who is great, and am feeling optimistic that things will get a least a little better in the long term, but I am totally dependent on my partner to get by at the moment. What I need most is practical help about what to do next, what we can do financially etc. but unfortunately we have to wait until 25th April before we can see a benefit advisor at the CAB. Do you know of anywhere I could get that advice over the phone?
Thanks again, and I wish you every success with whatever your particular hurdles are