Links to things I find inspiring and helpful

I'm going to tell you something about me now that I'm still coming to terms with: I've just learned to hope. That's such a bizarre concept that I hope now but I guess if someone told me that they hope for nothing I'd be sad for them... So there I was, sitting on a bus, and I caught myself hoping for a future. That's the first really big step I've taken in months and I've got to admit I've got mixed feelings about it. When you accept that there is a future you welcome a lot of variables and suddenly there's a lot more to worry about than what movie to watch. No surprise to see this whole future thing has made my stress-related skin condition worsen tenfold but hey, I'm pretty sure my family would rather see me scratch my elbows than attend my funeral, right? Right. So with itchy skin consuming all of my mind I thought I'd share the work of others with you tonight. Here are my favourite blogs, resources and charities relating to mental health. I should also probably mention that I'm Irish so the medical information and help lines are my local ones...

Hyperbole and a half
This is my all-time favourite blog about depression. I was in this bizarre skype-based relationship when I was truly at rock bottom (diagnosed with chronic depression and anxiety) and one day he linked me to this. I swear I was in shock at how much I laughed. It made me realised that I hadn't laughed in such a long time (cliché much?!). I've shared this a few times - publicly on social media too - and it always gets a great response. It's gotten to the point that when I can't express myself in a low place all I say is "Why can't anyone see how dead these fish are?!" and my nearest & dearest understand.

HSE Depression Information
This is an information page about depression on the Irish health service website. It's clear and medically accurate so you can't really go wrong looking for help there.

Samaritans Contact Details
So I've actually used their services and it hasn't always been a smooth ride but they are there to listen and at the very least let you know that you are not alone... because you're not. I'm right here with you and my dog is my shadow.

Suicide Helpline (1Life)
I've never called these guys but a friend of mine did and I'm so incredibly grateful to them for being there for her when I plainly wasn't (something that I continuously strive to make up for).

American Depression Demographic
This here is some interesting statistics on depression just to show you how many people (if Americans..) are facing this struggle right there with you. The results are from a 2012 study but, hey, it's not that old.

Irish Statistics (2004)
These again are just to show you how you're not alone at all... It's also interesting to see the difference in American and Irish statistic layouts because I'm cool and I look at that kind of thing.

Weird suicide phenomenon
This is not even about humans. That's why I'm telling you. I look up a lot about suicide when I'm really low and this is what I found. There's also a bridge in Scotland that dogs jump from. Weird, huh?

Youth Suicide Prevention (Ireland)
These guys are AWESOME. I'm constantly sharing their events and surveys on social media. I'm putting them up here as a chairty (because you can skydive to fund raise for them...COOL!) but they also have surveys and information up there that might be helpful for you. They're just a well run establishment for a great cause.

Cycle Against Suicide
Cycle Against is an organisation dedicated to sponsored cycles and raising awareness. They do one for suicide prevention and I think they're all bad ass. As I said before, the death of a relative spurred me on to start this blog. He died serving them and the whole family knew that he would want them to continue... So they did. Within two days of the tragedy they got back on their bikes at the request of his widow. I have the ultimate respect for each and every one of the people behind this project. Their charity is worthy and they are incredibly informative.


Equally, 1Life and Samaritans are incredibly worthy charities. If you feel like donating or volunteering these charities are all totally life-saving organisations. Have I said charity enough in this post yet? Charity charity charity! I hope this gives you somewhere to start at least. I also urge anyone with a potential mental health issue to seek medical help from professionals. I know my doctor was the first call I made and he hooked me up with green and blue pills and some guy he plays football with (who happens to be a qualified psychiatrist). Just stay safe guys, won't you? And never hesitate to contact little old me.

depressivedetails@gmail.com