Post by pj on Aug 9, 2013 13:39:50 GMT
Hi everyone,
Just thought I'd introduce myself. I'm 36 and live with my wife who has been my biggest help and supporter for the 17 and a half years we have been together.
I was given the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder and post traumatic stress many years ago and have had treatment of all types since. I hear voices which is the symptom of my mental health problems I struggle with most.
My mental health problems started due to severe abuse suffered at the hands of my parents which ended with me going into care, firstly foster care then local authority. I was also attacked and badly burned by a friend at 15. This start led to the illness outlined above. I self medicated for a long time with illegal drugs and drink, then I turned to mental health professionals for help.
In recent years after struggling to be part of society I have made steps to achieve personal goals with the support of my wife and others, this culminated in me graduating at Durham University this summer with a 2.1 and being accepted on a Masters degree also at Durham.
I would like share my journey with other people in a similar situation in the hope that I can help or inspire others.
I am by no means confident that another breakdown or period of struggle isn't in my future but I hope that the mutual support this site seams to provide can help me and others to live life to the fullest in spite of mental illness.
Paul
Just thought I'd introduce myself. I'm 36 and live with my wife who has been my biggest help and supporter for the 17 and a half years we have been together.
I was given the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder and post traumatic stress many years ago and have had treatment of all types since. I hear voices which is the symptom of my mental health problems I struggle with most.
My mental health problems started due to severe abuse suffered at the hands of my parents which ended with me going into care, firstly foster care then local authority. I was also attacked and badly burned by a friend at 15. This start led to the illness outlined above. I self medicated for a long time with illegal drugs and drink, then I turned to mental health professionals for help.
In recent years after struggling to be part of society I have made steps to achieve personal goals with the support of my wife and others, this culminated in me graduating at Durham University this summer with a 2.1 and being accepted on a Masters degree also at Durham.
I would like share my journey with other people in a similar situation in the hope that I can help or inspire others.
I am by no means confident that another breakdown or period of struggle isn't in my future but I hope that the mutual support this site seams to provide can help me and others to live life to the fullest in spite of mental illness.
Paul