Story Submission by Mark, Age 23
I never thought it would happen to me; the world we live in makes us think that depression and anxiety are terrible things, but you never really stop to think about how often it happens or how serious it really is.
On the surface I was friendly and outgoing, but deep inside there was so much happening that I thought nobody could understand.
Recently, I made an appointment with my doctor because I was feeling tired and exhausted on a daily basis.
I was later sent for a blood test and after a few weeks, my doctor confirmed that I was suffering from anxiety and depression.
I never thought about depression, let alone experiencing it first-hand. I always saw myself as a happy person, but after talking to others about my illness, it became clear that on the surface I was trying to be someone I wasn’t – it was all an act.
To me, it’s simply a small speed bump in my life; I see it as an opportunity for learning.
While I was coming to grips with my diagnosis, I discovered that my car is a huge part of my life. When I’m driving or when I’m working on my car, I empty my mind and instantly forget about everything happening in my life. I am, quite simply, enjoying the moment.
But there are often times I need to speak to someone to help restore faith within myself. I speak to my family and friends about anything that is worrying me or making me anxious.
I recently found Cars For Hope and felt that I could express myself to people that will understand. The main thing to realise is that so many others are going through the same thing as you may be.
Hopefully by being more open about my experience with anxiety and depression, it will give others an insight into my recovery and help them in their own or even to begin their own recovery journey.
If you or someone you know are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out. Call 13 11 14 for Lifeline’s 24hr Telephone Crisis Support or contact a mental health professional. If you are looking for other mental health resources, browse our Find Help page.
If a life is in danger call 000.
