Don’t suffer in silence says GP
A Cambuslang doctor has urged people with depression to seek help, rather than suffering in silence.
The former Trinity High School pupil, who now works as a GP in Blantyre, was upset last week when he heard that the American comedian Robin Williams had taken his own life, after suffering from depression.
And he immediately offered his professional advice to anyone else in the area who has the debilitating condition.
Kieran Dinwoodie said: “Like most I have been a little down about Robin Williams’s suicide. He gave so many of us the gift of laughter and was a real genius.
“One in four people people experience mental health problems every year. Clinical depression and anxiety are both illnesses and account for the majority of cases.
“These occur when symptoms are present for a minimum of two weeks. Common symptoms include low energy, loss of interest in things, feeling low, poor concentration, low self esteem, being on edge or struggling to cope.
“If you think you might be affected then you can fill in a PHQ9 form online for Depression or a GAD7 form online for anxiety for more objective feedback.
“If you score positive then remember that in most occasions these are episodes that pass and that help is at hand.
“If you want to do more about it then things that help include exercise, eating healthily, getting enough sleep ( look up sleep hygiene techniques) and having good relationships make a difference. If this isn’t working then check out Cognitive Behaviour Therapy via www.llttf.com or learn about Mindfulness are two useful things which help. “
The Mindfulness classes happen in Hamilton every Tuesday and are free to attend. http://www.martinstepek.com/ deep- wellbeing- classes- inmindfulness.htm
Kieran added: “If you want to speak to someone go to Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 to access a professional NHS trained counsellor. If money is a worry go to the Citizens Advice Bureau. If these are not working, if you are struggling with day to day functioning, unintentionally losing weight, are unable to sleep or if you are feeling suicidal then go and see your GP who will listen to you and work out a personal management plan with you. “Choose life.” Help is also at hand from www. elament.org.uk, Lanarshire’s first stop for on-line mental health and well-being information providing information for people seeking assistance with mental health problems.