Lived Experience Forum

[Ginny]

Hi all I have been feeling terrible and so tired and aching for so long, that I finally gave up functioning and took to my bed. My spine will need an operation next year but it was the tiredness that beat me. 

I went to see my lovely GP on Thursday and after babbling and crying all over her about everything she announced that I didn't have dementia (I had forgotten 3 important Physio appointments and 2 others for my daughter the week before) I was having a nervous breakdown. 

Now I live in the top of Australia and Darwin does not have private facilities and it's hard to see a public psychiatrist so she is going to try and in the meantime, go home, rest and try to have no stress while she stirs things for me.

i love to read fortunately, so I have taken Shantaram out of the library. It is big and thick and should keep me amused. 

It has taken me so long to find a GP to listen and DO something, while the politicians blithely announce new initiatives that WE all know either won't start or won't last but that's another rant.

[Appleblossom]

Thinking of you @Ginny.  When dealing with long term spinal issues it is courageous to take to the bed. 

We know that political spin about money for mental health resources is different from the reality on the ground.

I remember losing myself in Shantaram for a while ... great idea.

[MoonGal]

Hi @Ginny, I am glad you have found a GP to listen and who is trying to help. Back pain is so draining, and trying just to live daily life with chrnoic back pain is tiring, exhausting. I had spinal surgery a few years ago. It is as a huge step. I hope you find someone to help, I got some help from a pain specialist psychologist who helped me learn to manage my pain, and my wayward brain. If after you see a suitable psychiatrist - perhapos some appointments (on a Mental Health Plan via your GP?) may help find ways to cope with your spinal injury.

I wish you all the very best and hope you come back to the forums, I have found they help and it isnice to connect with other struggly beings.

[JoseJones]

HI @Ginny,

Sorry to hear about your pain. I can imagine it must be awfully frustrating to suffer such pain and not get much support, although I am glad you have such a good rapport with your GP and that she is doing what she can to help you.  I wonder if there are any Pain Management clinics in Darwin?  Perhaps you have already tried, but if not it might be worth checking with your GP to see if such clinics are in your area.

[Ginny]

@JoseJones yes there is a pain clinic here. I have been once for a 4 hour visit. That included a talk to a Physio, a talk to the Dr and then a session with a psychologist. 

I have had no further contact. I do know that someone from "south" comes as well but I have not been referred to that person and because I am busy with my girls I forget and now suddenly it's Christmas and Darwin "closes"for a fortnight. 

Waiting until next year now.