h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Morning Effers

My deepest apologies for upsetting you with my opening line.

I have been on drugs of one sort or another for depression, for about 40 years. I agree with your aguement. Placebo pills would never have helped me. I was lucky to get a Consultant Psychiatrist who recognised my condition was heriditary and prescribed Lithium. It worked for me.

Sorry to have 'hurt' you, I am actually fully aware of the fragility you feel, and after 40 years am fully aware of the general attitude to those who have to deal with a mental illness

Best wishes and apologies again

Novo

Afternoon Novo

This is really nice of you to come here and speak to me.

I got myself in such a state about yesterday; I almost think I went a bit loopy.

I'm not sure you've that much to apologise for as I was getting so obsessed with every little detail people were saying and taking it too personally.

Yes I've come to realise that half of my problem with mania/depression is the 'shame' aspect I always feel. Having to hide it from people because its embarassing and people can easily use it against you. Not wanting to let people know I take such tablets. It's a guilty secret, which I don't think I'd feel so much if it was what's commonly known as a 'physical' illness. Ed has really helped me be more open about it on h2g2. And I applaud you for being so open about your problems. I wish you well with that.

I'd like to apologise too for getting in a such strop with you and others on that thread. I'm ABSOLUTELY going to *keep away* from it now. Ed's good advice for my fragility, which I should have listened to immediately.

Am feeling better about it today.

Very best wishes to you to, Novo. I've always felt fond of you, even though we frequently disagree in debate.

Effers

Hi Effers,

Thanks for that, it was a lovely post. I'm very relieved that you are feeling better today, believe me I DO understand your distress.

I suppose that at my advanced age (67!) I have come to accept that I am the way I am, and that it isn't my fault. So I have lost the sense of 'shame' over the years, - people accept me or not, for what I am, not what they think I should be.

I am lucky , the drugs I take do the job they should do - and I take them very morning and night without a thought.

Please feel free to post to my space if you feel the need. or if you just want a chat. I've grown quite fond of you too. Disagreements in debate don't lessen respect do they?

Take care of yourself, and listen to ED, he's a wise old bird.....

Best wishes
Novo