Category: David Heulfryn

I’ve been quiet for the past couple of months, and I am finally starting to feel better. I’ve been up and down for over six months as I tried to manage my depression myself, but it got to the point where I had to reach out to NHS Talking Therapy for help.

I can’t underestimate how good they have been and how responsive they were; they didn’t put me on a never-ending waiting list. Just the act of reaching out was the start of my recovery. I’ve only had a few sessions, but we’ve already identified trigger points and my behaviours. My counsellor also explained that cutting yourself from the rest of the world is perfectly normal. I have to admit that it is my main coping mechanism.

I’ve received some positive comments over the last few months, which I have not responded to. I always feel guilty for not responding, but during the dark days, I can’t, even though they are positive. I doubtless have lost a lot of goodwill from my readers over the years for my self-enforced silence.

It’s important we take away the stigma of mental illness, and when I feel up to it, I like to let you all know why I’ve been quiet. If I haven’t responded to any emails or comments, I hope you understand, but I appreciate you all and the support you give me.
I’ve also started writing again! I hope to deliver the conclusion of Ben’s story in France soon. I’ve also got loads of ideas floating around my head, and I need to write them down.

Thank you for all your support and patience.

I know I’ve been a little distant recently and unresponsive, so I’d like to thank all of you who have left comments, especially from new contributors. I’ve now read them and appreciate them. I love the ones where you tell me your experiences.

It has been a stressful few weeks lurching from one family issue to another, and I seem to be the one who helps and supports the others. But it has had a detrimental effect on my mental health, and I’ve been trying to hold things together. The sleepless nights are the worst; your mind runs rampant, and you are left feeling tired all day.

I’ve decided that now is the time to look after myself and give myself permission to be a little selfish. I’ve not written anything for several weeks and want to start writing again. I need to finish the story of Ben Masters and his camping trip in France, and I’m eager to start some new stories that have been swimming around my head.

It’s a bank holiday weekend, so I’m hoping the extra day off on Monday will help me recharge my batteries, and I’ll be posting the next instalment of Ben’s French adventure shortly.

Thank you all. You are the best, and I appreciate all your support.