I joined DS a couple of days ago. I'm kinda folling AlwaysSad a little here, I just wanted to share a little about myself. I have suffered with depression all my life, growing up with domestic violence, and being raped at 14. I was also abused by an older girl when I was young, and fear that I suffered more abuse, but have repressed these memories.

I became very suicidal at 19, and spent the next 5 years in and out of hospital. I used to cut myself, drink and sleep around. I was also addicted to valium and temazepam. My experiences of hospital (have been sectioned 6 times) were very unhelpful and I never received any decent help. I did however manage to get myself through this time.

In the last 10 years, I have completed my psychology degree and postgrad qualifications to become a counselling psychologist. I spent time working as a therapist with young people, which I adored. I recently emmigrated from the UK to New Zealand, unfortunately my depression is back with a vengance. But I am managing to get through each day.

I joined DS to give and receive support. The lasty few days here have been pretty bad, with some real rotten posts. I hope that the community can get back to being the supportive place it was, and I hope I can help to achieve this. For me, this place is invaluable - it helps me remember I'm not alone, and I've had some great support and advice here. I'm really struggling at the moment, and sorry if I've bored some of you. I just wanted to reach out and say hi