Electrician, James Hill, shares his story to help others living with depression and anxiety.
Beyond Blue Speaker, James Hill, has worked in the electrical industry for 28 years and voluntarily shares his story to help others living with depression and anxiety. He shares his journey and well-being tips here.
What steps did you take towards recovery?
As far as the depression goes, I’d be constantly tired and I’d have to fight all day just to stay awake. I couldn’t concentrate for anything more than two minutes, just a constant feeling of, I suppose worthlessness. I just wanted to shut myself away in a little corner and be on my own and sleep. I’m a happily married father of two children and didn’t know what I had to be depressed about.
I happened to come across Man Therapy on Beyond Blue’s Facebook, and I thought to myself, okay I will actually answer these questions and I’ll be honest with myself just so that I can rule anxiety and depression out because that’s not what’s wrong with me. And it advised me to seek medical help.
Going into the doctor’s surgery was the hardest thing ever because I’m sitting there and the first thing I said to him was, “I don’t really know why I’m here but there’s something wrong, and I want to be honest with you,” and I told him all my symptoms.
Once I was able to talk openly, I found my recovery was much easier to navigate.
As a tradesperson since the early 1990’s I learnt that men didn’t talk about mental health problems. Having lived the negative consequences of not doing this in the past, I’m now a much better person for leaving the old stereotypical “toughen up” attitudes that I once lived by.
"My top piece of advice for anyone struggling with a mental health illness is, there is no shame in reaching out for help and support."
My top piece of advice for anyone struggling with a mental health illness is, there is no shame in reaching out for help and support. Once I was able to talk openly, I found my recovery was much easier to navigate, seeing a psychologist regularly has given me practical skills to help me through challenging times.
Is there anything (big or small) that you do on a daily or weekly basis to look after your mental health?
I find exercising regularly keeps me feeling well, and as I go after work it serves as a barrier between work and home giving me time to disconnect and clear my mind.
Making time each week to do things I enjoy – riding my motorcycle, playing sport, spending quality time with my family or friends are all important to keep me mentally fit.
What do you say to a mate who is struggling?
There is no shame or weakness in getting help, the real strength is being able to put up your hand and take that first step. I always offer to help them by providing support service numbers and websites, and explain what they do.
Click through to watch James’ story.
Local support services are available and can be reached on:
- Telephone counsellors: 0800 LIFELINE (0800 543 354) or text ‘HELP” to 4357
- Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand crisis contacts.
