Dean Powell

[whiskey]

Funnily enough, just reading an article saying people who eat margarine instead of butter, are at risk of all sorts. University studies have burst the propaganda bubble of all these margarine PR campaigns, saying good old butter is far healthier and natural than any "spreads" that blend this with that.

One of the main reasons is that butter is very good at absorbing nutrients amongst food it's served with, in turn providing them into the blood stream , whereas margarine blocks them out - and guess what, has now been linked to depressed state and poor health if consumed on a regular basis.

Thankfully I've always had butter, not utterly butterly or that horrendous Stork - simply because of the taste is better.

[hurlock]

But I only stick the marg on your hoop Gomez lol!
Marg stops your metabolism from being effective as it's made of synphetics with no natural oils or fats that our body's react to or along them lines. Coffee suppresses appetite & lulls your mood & not great for depression

[IRLangmaid25]

Just like Gary Speed we'll never know the only people that know why are Speed and Powell and why do people always assume people who commit suicide are gay?

The sad thing about Gary Speed taking his own life was that on the day he did it, he made an appearance on BBC' Football Focus programme and he was looking very well and sounded very passionate and upbeat about the direction that the Welsh football team was going in since hje had taken over as the National Team manager, which makes his death even worse.

As for homosexuality and suicides or sucidual thoughts. It comes down to one thing and one thing onlu PRESSURE. The pressure of keeping up a lie to everyone around you in the workplace and family and friends and the best example of this (and continuing the Welsh theme) is the Rugby Captain Gareth Thomas. I watched a fascinating documentary on BBC4 about him and how he came out when he was still and active rugby player and Welsh Captain and the pressure of lying and what it did to his state of mind etc. Its on the IPLayer if you want to see it.

[Broomhall]

But I only stick the marg on your hoop Gomez lol!
Marg stops your metabolism from being effective as it's made of synphetics with no natural oils or fats that our body's react to or along them lines. Coffee suppresses appetite & lulls your mood & not great for depression

Put margarine outside in the summer and see if flies land on it. They steer clear. So if even flies wont eat it something isnt right with the stuff.

[el_grande_mauro_mina]

But I only stick the marg on your hoop Gomez lol!
Marg stops your metabolism from being effective as it's made of synphetics with no natural oils or fats that our body's react to or along them lines. Coffee suppresses appetite & lulls your mood & not great for depression

Put margarine outside in the summer and see if flies land on it. They steer clear. So if even flies wont eat it something isnt right with the stuff.

I read somewhere that someone put a tub of margarine in a garage and over a period of 10 years, not only did it stay the same colour but didn't even go off... aieeeeee... haven't ate it since.

[hurlock]

Thank you for all your concerns regarding Marge it's the first time I have ever felt loved and cared for but I've Allways had butter as I Allways thought there was no substitute.

In all seriousness I think your diet does play a major role and there are people on here that are suffering and are not even aware they are and all the bits of advice people give on here do somebody good or it can be relayed on to a person in need

[Eddy]

Get down the gym and have a heavy cardio session, then a nice hot bath after, does wonders

[rhino222]

Frank Bruno's come out

Gosh, I bet that would hurt!!

[reggaereggae]

Frank Bruno's come out in support of SDM treatment for depression. There's a video on the site: http://sdmdepression.ncl.ac.uk/sdm.html.

Thanks for that link pal, I'll have a look at it.

I haven't had time to read properly but most GPs in my experience just roll you out on medication (always staring with the cheapest and least effective) and generally just want you out of the surgery.

[Matt W]

Thanks for the update Terry.

Like many I've suffered horrendously with depression but I'm doing well now. I've always been very open about it and have had some great support from work & friends but even with the very best of intentions unless you've been there I don't think you can understand it. It's hard enough getting your own head around how you felt when you were ill when looking back on it as it defies any rational explanation once you are out of that headspace. It can be frustrating trying to explain to people that don't understand but I can't blame them really. What does really get my goat is when I hear ignorant people stating with certainty how suicide and depression are selfish and weak, as if anybody would choose to take their own life in any circumstances other than utter hopelessness and despair. Such people should just be grateful that they haven't been there instead of spouting off their ignorant and damaging views.

At a personal level I find it frustrating that people think that because you've been depressed then you won't be able to cope with any upset that happens in your life in future. I guess it's just a sign that they care but it still bothers me, especially when people keep things from you becdause they think it might 'set you off'. My marriage broke up last year and whilst it was obviously a horrible situation - and still is really - I haven't suffered any sort of relapse because of it. I actually feel good that I can now point out to people the fallacy of them thinking that because you've suffered from depression it's a sign you can't cope with major downers in your life.

There are a number of things that depression taught me about myself and I recognise certain characteristics that don't lend themselves to a healthy mind if left unchecked, that being said I don't think I'll ever know exactly why it was that twice in my life I have hit absolute rock bottom; for whatever reason it just happens that I have the switch inside me that triggers this major illness and I'm just grateful that on both occasions I was able to climb out of it. I think the bigger part of it is genetic.

Here's hoping that anyone else here that suffers gets the help and support they need, it really is a lifesaver. And on a positive note here is a little bit of info on Empire Fighting Chance, a boxing project in Bristol run by Jamie Sanigar that does some great work addressing mental health issues. I'm hopefully going to be doing some work soon with the mental health charity MIND to use boxing to help others in a similar way.

http://www.empirefightingchance.org/programmes/health/

[palooka]

Thanks for the update Terry.

Like many I've suffered horrendously with depression but I'm doing well now. I've always been very open about it and have had some great support from work & friends but even with the very best of intentions unless you've been there I don't think you can understand it. It's hard enough getting your own head around how you felt when you were ill when looking back on it as it defies any rational explanation once you are out of that headspace. It can be frustrating trying to explain to people that don't understand but I can't blame them really. What does really get my goat is when I hear ignorant people stating with certainty how suicide and depression are selfish and weak, as if anybody would choose to take their own life in any circumstances other than utter hopelessness and despair. Such people should just be grateful that they haven't been there instead of spouting off their ignorant and damaging views.

At a personal level I find it frustrating that people think that because you've been depressed then you won't be able to cope with any upset that happens in your life in future. I guess it's just a sign that they care but it still bothers me, especially when people keep things from you becdause they think it might 'set you off'. My marriage broke up last year and whilst it was obviously a horrible situation - and still is really - I haven't suffered any sort of relapse because of it. I actually feel good that I can now point out to people the fallacy of them thinking that because you've suffered from depression it's a sign you can't cope with major downers in your life.

There are a number of things that depression taught me about myself and I recognise certain characteristics that don't lend themselves to a healthy mind if left unchecked, that being said I don't think I'll ever know exactly why it was that twice in my life I have hit absolute rock bottom; for whatever reason it just happens that I have the switch inside me that triggers this major illness and I'm just grateful that on both occasions I was able to climb out of it. I think the bigger part of it is genetic.

Here's hoping that anyone else here that suffers gets the help and support they need, it really is a lifesaver. And on a positive note here is a little bit of info on Empire Fighting Chance, a boxing project in Bristol run by Jamie Sanigar that does some great work addressing mental health issues. I'm hopefully going to be doing some work soon with the mental health charity MIND to use boxing to help others in a similar way.

http://www.empirefightingchance.org/programmes/health/

Hope it goes well, Matt

[Matt W]

Cheers Palooka

[freddydoesdallas]

Thanks for the update Terry.

Like many I've suffered horrendously with depression but I'm doing well now. I've always been very open about it and have had some great support from work & friends but even with the very best of intentions unless you've been there I don't think you can understand it. It's hard enough getting your own head around how you felt when you were ill when looking back on it as it defies any rational explanation once you are out of that headspace. It can be frustrating trying to explain to people that don't understand but I can't blame them really. What does really get my goat is when I hear ignorant people stating with certainty how suicide and depression are selfish and weak, as if anybody would choose to take their own life in any circumstances other than utter hopelessness and despair. Such people should just be grateful that they haven't been there instead of spouting off their ignorant and damaging views.

At a personal level I find it frustrating that people think that because you've been depressed then you won't be able to cope with any upset that happens in your life in future. I guess it's just a sign that they care but it still bothers me, especially when people keep things from you becdause they think it might 'set you off'. My marriage broke up last year and whilst it was obviously a horrible situation - and still is really - I haven't suffered any sort of relapse because of it. I actually feel good that I can now point out to people the fallacy of them thinking that because you've suffered from depression it's a sign you can't cope with major downers in your life.

There are a number of things that depression taught me about myself and I recognise certain characteristics that don't lend themselves to a healthy mind if left unchecked, that being said I don't think I'll ever know exactly why it was that twice in my life I have hit absolute rock bottom; for whatever reason it just happens that I have the switch inside me that triggers this major illness and I'm just grateful that on both occasions I was able to climb out of it. I think the bigger part of it is genetic.

Here's hoping that anyone else here that suffers gets the help and support they need, it really is a lifesaver. And on a positive note here is a little bit of info on Empire Fighting Chance, a boxing project in Bristol run by Jamie Sanigar that does some great work addressing mental health issues. I'm hopefully going to be doing some work soon with the mental health charity MIND to use boxing to help others in a similar way.

http://www.empirefightingchance.org/programmes/health/

An honest and open post. I hope all stays well

[mickey1975]

Massive respect, Matt. Don't know if it's depression I've got, or just getting over a break up. It's hard either way.

[Brian Moore]

I just want to thank Matt W and others for the inspirational posts. I'm going through a difficult time myself, as I appreciate many others are. I can't see a way out, or light at the end of the tunnel, and I don't like myself. I feel like I'm barely functioning day to day and when I do try to reach out to those closest to me it is ending in disappointment, hostility or despair.

But this forum is fantastic to read some excellent, knowledgable views on Boxing from so many people. So thank you. I saw Dean Powell 2 weeks before he died at Bethnal Green. He seemed so jovial but I know it seldom tells the full story.

[magwitch]

I just want to thank Matt W and others for the inspirational posts. I'm going through a difficult time myself, as I appreciate many others are. I can't see a way out, or light at the end of the tunnel, and I don't like myself. I feel like I'm barely functioning day to day and when I do try to reach out to those closest to me it is ending in disappointment, hostility or despair.

But this forum is fantastic to read some excellent, knowledgable views on Boxing from so many people. So thank you. I saw Dean Powell 2 weeks before he died at Bethnal Green. He seemed so jovial but I know it seldom tells the full story.

sorry to hear about your predicament Brian, I hope you come out of it well. I would consider sharing whatever is bothering you with someone that you can confide in - and if there is noone you can think of, to consider going to a doctor. Or there's always worth having a pop on here as generally speaking there are some pretty solid folks on here, in my experience. Easy to say, I know. I went to docs being bothered with depression years ago - got slapped straight on mild anti-depressants which I never took, but a handful, and then when I applied to join the Navy it went against me - so really, had that Doctor told me that, I'd have never asked for them. But I did get referred to a counsellor and I would be lying if I said it never helped me.
Once you get back on track you kind of think, well if I can go down there and climb back up, then I can pretty much cope with anything life throws at me now - but as Matt W has said up there in his post, which was very good of him - things can conspire to set you back again. (interesting comments on the genetics there Matt, you could be right - in which case it's a bit unlucky I guess!).
I've seen exactly the same thing happen (regarding the Forces) with someone else since. Generally I would say time is a good healer and I would say try and look after yourself - mentally and physically - because ultimately, I suspect however low down you are - life can kick you even further down if you let it and it might do unless you start becoming your own friend to yourself, which basically means not giving up on yourself. In fifty years we'll all be dead anyway, in that way none of us are really that big a deal in the greater scheme of things so try to enjoy the ride.

[Brian Moore]

I just want to thank Matt W and others for the inspirational posts. I'm going through a difficult time myself, as I appreciate many others are. I can't see a way out, or light at the end of the tunnel, and I don't like myself. I feel like I'm barely functioning day to day and when I do try to reach out to those closest to me it is ending in disappointment, hostility or despair.

But this forum is fantastic to read some excellent, knowledgable views on Boxing from so many people. So thank you. I saw Dean Powell 2 weeks before he died at Bethnal Green. He seemed so jovial but I know it seldom tells the full story.

sorry to hear about your predicament Brian, I hope you come out of it well. I would consider sharing whatever is bothering you with someone that you can confide in - and if there is noone you can think of, to consider going to a doctor. Or there's always worth having a pop on here as generally speaking there are some pretty solid folks on here, in my experience. Easy to say, I know. I went to docs being bothered with depression years ago - got slapped straight on mild anti-depressants which I never took, but a handful, and then when I applied to join the Navy it went against me - so really, had that Doctor told me that, I'd have never asked for them. But I did get referred to a counsellor and I would be lying if I said it never helped me.
Once you get back on track you kind of think, well if I can go down there and climb back up, then I can pretty much cope with anything life throws at me now - but as Matt W has said up there in his post, which was very good of him - things can conspire to set you back again. (interesting comments on the genetics there Matt, you could be right - in which case it's a bit unlucky I guess!).

Hi mate,

Thanks so much for replying. I think I know what to do but I need others to help by spelling it out, without sounding condescending. You go through all the emotions of feeling worthless, sad or an issue. I'm taking each day as it comes : I've taken up cooking which gives me a focus as it takes me ages to chop stuff which is good in some ways because it occupies my brain. I'm also going to the gym and reading the forum. Thanks again to you and everyone else.
I've seen exactly the same thing happen (regarding the Forces) with someone else since. Generally I would say time is a good healer and I would say try and look after yourself - mentally and physically - because ultimately, I suspect however low down you are - life can kick you even further down if you let it and it might do unless you start becoming your own friend to yourself, which basically means not giving up on yourself. In fifty years we'll all be dead anyway, in that way none of us are really that big a deal in the greater scheme of things so try to enjoy the ride.

[littlekinny]

I liked the Vid of Quillan last Saturday on about his smiley face tattoo.
Every day he thinks of something positive and a reason to smile no matter how bad.
Not saying it works for everyone but Ive done it every day this week.

[palooka]

I liked the Vid of Quillan last Saturday on about his smiley face tattoo.
Every day he thinks of something positive and a reason to smile no matter how bad.
Not saying it works for everyone but Ive done it every day this week.

You've had a smiley tattoo done?

[Matt W]

I'm always sorry to hear when anybody is going through this, the best advice I could give would be echoing what others have said:

- talk to someone who will listen and not judge you - essential, helps to illuminate your faulty thinking
- NEVER lose hope
- understand the depression WILL end even though it doesn't feel like it
- write your thoughts down - helps to stop them swirling around your head and can bring clarity to your thinking when you see it on paper
- don't overthink - a symptom of depression and one of my biggest issues was always rumination and trying to think my way out of it, try to have things to take you out of your head and distract you; even though you will lack motivation do what you can
- don't be hard on yourself - your illness will tell you horrible things that are not true but are symptoms of the depression
- don't refuse medication that is offered due to thinking it makes you weak or that you should be able to get by without them or that they turn you into a robot - I can only speak for myself but these thoughts are very far from the truth, I think nothing about taking a paracetamol when I have a headache and I think nothing of taking anti-depressants when I am ill.

Also recognise that you will probably discount everything I've just written as pointless, 'I've tried that and it doesn't work,' 'that couldn't solve X,Y,Z,' 'yes but that's not the problem the problem is......' (something you perceive as unsolveable). Again, that is a symptom of the illness, probably the biggest thing to remember is to have hope / faith - these things DO help and you WILL feel like yourself again and not the stranger to yourself that you probably feel you are now.

The upside is that there is no better feeling than recovering from depression and seeing life with new eyes and appreciating things that you always took for granted. You will learn things about life and about yourself that will add significantly to your experience of life and it is an opportunity to discover beliefs and ways of behaving that don't serve you well. Hang in there and know there are good times ahead of you!

[reggaereggae]

I'm always sorry to hear when anybody is going through this, the best advice I could give would be echoing what others have said:

- talk to someone who will listen and not judge you - essential, helps to illuminate your faulty thinking
- NEVER lose hope
- understand the depression WILL end even though it doesn't feel like it
- write your thoughts down - helps to stop them swirling around your head and can bring clarity to your thinking when you see it on paper
- don't overthink - a symptom of depression and one of my biggest issues was always rumination and trying to think my way out of it, try to have things to take you out of your head and distract you; even though you will lack motivation do what you can
- don't be hard on yourself - your illness will tell you horrible things that are not true but are symptoms of the depression
- don't refuse medication that is offered due to thinking it makes you weak or that you should be able to get by without them or that they turn you into a robot - I can only speak for myself but these thoughts are very far from the truth, I think nothing about taking a paracetamol when I have a headache and I think nothing of taking anti-depressants when I am ill.

Also recognise that you will probably discount everything I've just written as pointless, 'I've tried that and it doesn't work,' 'that couldn't solve X,Y,Z,' 'yes but that's not the problem the problem is......' (something you perceive as unsolveable). Again, that is a symptom of the illness, probably the biggest thing to remember is to have hope / faith - these things DO help and you WILL feel like yourself again and not the stranger to yourself that you probably feel you are now.

The upside is that there is no better feeling than recovering from depression and seeing life with new eyes and appreciating things that you always took for granted. You will learn things about life and about yourself that will add significantly to your experience of life and it is an opportunity to discover beliefs and ways of behaving that don't serve you well. Hang in there and know there are good times ahead of you!

Great post. Thanks for that. I have been on the floor for 3 years. It can seem so hopeless.

I am very nervous about medication sometimes. I got put on a very strong dosage about 3 years ago and I kind of lost it for a while. Became totally reckless, unpredictable and sometimes nasty. Drink didnt help on top of that; one should never drink on psychological medication but depressives often escape into booze or any type of escapism.

Also got put recently on some new meds which brought me the lowest I have ever been. I wouldn't wish the feelings I had on my worst enemy. Being so tired but not being able to sleep, contemplating suicide all day. Horrible.

I don't expect sympathy but dammit some kind of hope would be nice.
Not wanting to be dramatic, but every day I have a period where I wish I were dead.

I hope you fell better soon Matt

[Matt W]

Stick in there reggaereggae pal, I know exactly how you feel and it does get better. Just picked up a really good book by Matt Haig, 'Reasons to Stay Alive', check it out.

[reggaereggae]

Stick in there reggaereggae pal, I know exactly how you feel and it does get better. Just picked up a really good book by Matt Haig, 'Reasons to Stay Alive', check it out.

Thanks for that mate. I'll have a look at that

[Matt W]

Just finished it, it's a quick read and easy to dip in and out of. When you're feeling that low I think one of the best things can be to read / watch something that relates exactly to what you're feeling, knowing that it's not just you and that better times are ahead for you.

[ashley-sexton]

It's been well documented my battle with depression and anxiety im no one to give advice and everyone is different two things I'd say take and stick with the meds I went on and took my self off so many times I really messed my self up but the side affects do subside then you get to a point where you have the help you need and don't need them no more, tho it's hard to train on them!
And second its let people help and try to understand that you have a problem that a lot of people have your not alone and it can be fixed!
Prob not enough detail in them but I anyone wants to chat to me inbox me here, facebook or Twitter @flashashsexton take care keep strong!