Brodie’s story

I’ve been donating every month to Health in Mind for 6 years, and I would encourage anyone else who has a regular income with a bit of give to do the same.  I see all the great work they do and I think ‘I helped that’ even in just a very small way. 

I was diagnosed with Anxiety and Depression in my thirties.  I have always been told I was a ‘worrier’, but after a few big job changes, house moves and losing close family members, that worry became something bigger.  I remember being in the doctors not able to keep still I was shaking so much.  I couldn’t hold thoughts in my head.  I remember feeling like I was moving incredibly slowly – and I couldn’t really hold a conversation as everything other people said moved towards me like it was moving through oil. 

There was no support available to me where I lived at the time.  I was put on anti-depressants and signed off work for 4 months as I learned how to be me again.  I made myself take little victory steps each day, getting bolder as time went on: getting out of bed, getting outside, meeting up with friends and family.  I  took up writing again – something I’d always loved doing when I was younger.  And I started meditating every day which I found really helped quiet my brain.   

When I came to Edinburgh and heard about the great things Health in Mind do, I couldn’t not support them.  My job is quite hectic, with last minute changes in my time, so the best way for me to be involved is through a regular donation.  I can see the difference it’s making to people, through the updates that are shared with me.   

It’s just wonderful to know my contributions are helping someone like me get to a stronger place.    

*Some names and details have been changed