Eileen Grabham

In October 2017, I had a mental breakdown, which resulted in me spending time in a psychiatric hospital. After receiving some incredible help, both in the hospital and in the community, I recovered and started enjoying life like never before. Unfortunately, in October 2023, I found myself back in the same hospital for the same reason. This is something that I had never anticipated or even contemplated. I kept convincing myself that I was coping until, eventually, I couldn't cope anymore. I knew I was f*cked. I had 2 choices, and thankfully, I chose the right one. I asked for help. This time was different, though. It hit much harder. I didn't think it was possible to feel worse than I did the last time, but I couldn't have been more wrong. My time in hospital was really, really tough, both on me and my family, and it was no better when I got home. I struggled so hard to try to get better. I could see the effect my illness was having on my family, but I couldn't be there for them. It really hurts to know that you're the reason for their upset and worry, and yet you're useless to them. Thankfully, they never gave up on me, and even though there were some really testing times, they kept supporting me and always had my back. Because of this and the unwavering help of doctors, nurses, and an amazing psychotherapist, I am much better and once again feeling positive about my future. I've come from utter despair and hopelessness to enjoying the good times, but more importantly, coping well with the not so good times. If things are tough for you, please ask for help even if you think it's pointless. Trust in yourself, trust in others, and trust in the process. Let go and let others look after you for a while. It's not an easy thing to do, but sometimes it's your only choice. Ask for help, and before you know it, that little glimmer hope will return, and with that hope, anything and everything is possible. ❤️ #MentalHealth