Alex, 23, NSW

From about the age of 18 I began to suffer from anxiety and depression.

Even though I was achieving good grades at university I began to withdraw socially and worry excessively over my grades. Work was also a constant struggle. Even though I worked in an interesting and fun position I just could not find the energy to get out of bed in the morning. Family relationships also became more stressful.
Over time it got worse and not better. I developed OCD concerning locked doors. People gave me funny looks on the street as I constantly checked that the car was locked. Getting up became harder and harder and I just felt tired all the time.
Studying and working two jobs didn't help either, even though I like to be busy. I lost contact with a lot of friends.
This year at age 23, it became really bad. I just did not want to get out of bed and felt down and negative all the time. I basically hated myself even though I had things pretty good.
It took about two months to strike up the courage to see a doctor. This is probably the best thing I have done. Although it has taken about 3 months to sort out the medication I feel a lot better. I actually feel excited about the future for the first time in a long time. I look forward to getting up and starting a new day. Work no longer really bothers me. Friendships and family relationships have really improved.
I did not realise how prevalent mental illness is. When I started talking to my extended family I found out a good proportion also suffer depression and anxiety. I was shocked that my family doesn't talk about it even though a lot of us have it. Their experiences have helped me immensely. So if you can, talk to your family, you never know who else has it. I didn't know about Headspace until I started doing some research. I wish I knew it existed when I was younger. If you are feeling down or know someone who is, talk to them, it really does help. Alex, 23, NSW