Hello from Missouri USA

Hi Everyone I go by Manny

I am really scared to even admit that I do suffer from mental illness
I am seeing a new psychiatrist Wednesday
I have many things that at first seemed to be small things but the PTSD and major depression and bipolar was enough to finally add up to a lot including the thoughts of self harm.

I have dealt with chemical addiction and alcoholism as well.

I have celebrated over 8 yrs of sobriety and clean time.

Being single and middle aged and unsure of where life takes me next is no picnic. But its alot better than dragging others along for the ride.

Hi Manny and welcome!

Sounds like you have a fair amount to deal with. I hope the new psychiatrist is helpful and you find the forum helpful and supportive as well. There are def lots of people who "get it" here.

Congratulations on 8 yrs of sobriety- that’s great!

*hugs* and take care,
Jan

Hi Jan thank you for the welcome and congratulating me

Hello Manny and welcome to the forum.

It's really good to hear that you have celebrated over 8 years being sober and clean. That's a big achievement. I would imagine that would have been a challenge to get to that stage. And just like it is a challenge to do that sort of thing, it will be a challenge to confront your mental illness issues. But you will get better at it. Just like you did with the chemical addiction and alcoholism.

I was a scared rabbit about admitting I had anything wrong when I first joined this site. But through going to see my psychiatrist who does therapy with me, and writing here more, I've eventually gotten to the stage where I can quite openly admit my struggles with mental illness to my friends and can then have more support because of it.

So even though it's a bit scary to start with to admit that you have mental health issues, I'm sure it will become easier for you over time. And eventually talking about it more to people who are supportive will open up a whole new world of positive and supportive people to form a network to help you. It is really good to hear that you are taking the step to go see a psychiatrist and get some help. Please let us know how you find your first session with your new Psychiatrist! Wishing you all the best for it.