On The Horizon

About the Author

As I sit here at my computer desk, with my trusty biro back in my right hand, I am perplexed as to how to write a biography of my mental health. I suppose now it is written in the past tense, and this has been the way that I have always wanted to view my mental health ever since I was diagnosed with mental health conditions.

My actual mental health condition was recently diagnosed as schizophrenia. This was a great shame for me because I had always had a level of autonomy in distinguishing who I am and what I am composed of.

As a young child I grew up fairly well informed of medical issues. This is because my father is an Ear, Nose and Throat Consultant. My father is steady and strong; everything I have ever wanted to be.

As a boy my mother and father took great care of me and made sure that I was well. As I developed into an adult I was lucky; I achieved good grades - something that was very important to me - and had many ambitions. I had one problem: and that was my love for taking drugs.

I did not predict that I would be a drug taker and had never meant to cause any harm to myself or others.

Physically and mentally I believe that I am lucky. I was always one of the best players on the rugby pitch and achieved the necessary grades to go to University.

When I was sectioned under the Mental Health Act the first time I was very depressed. I was definitely indulging in drugs too much and the introduction to mental health pained me. I had studied religion and wished well on others, so was really upset. I didn't want to be detained and needed self confidence. My palms were sweaty and my thoughts were confused and deranged.

Looking back, I was extremely lucky to have such kind counselling and tolerance from a highly informed mental health team. I know now how the brain works and have encountered various types of counselling involving a range of intellectual techniques. I also know different psychological theories and how they play a part in the business world, the workplace and furthermore in society.

I have always believed that "knowledge is power", as the saying goes, and can save lives. Despite this I know that I have come from a world where I have been offered support and have refused it. Although I am happy and achieving what I want: freedom, security, love; I will always remember that I am someone who has felt a lot of pain from being diagnosed with a mental health condition.

After I was sectioned the first time in 2002 I took a dosage of medication that my father insisted I take. The Doctors, nurses, counsellors and specialists insisted that I listen to them and learn from them. I still refuse care now, but I have a great deal of respect for who they are and the part they play in society.