- Talk about it.
You may think you'll never stop hurting.
- Men, don't fall
for the male myth. Being Macho isn't being tough when it really counts.
Let others see you grieve.
- Expect strange
physical and emotional experiences. Stress, emotional pain and depression
are experienced at different times of our lives - it's part of the journey.
- Think about your
body: like gaining weight - you sink easier; lose weight and you can
swim and keep your head above water.
- Suicidal thoughts
are normal, during a prolonged period of depression, it's part of the
process. Choose appropriate people to help - ones who listen and help
you move on. Like a GP or Counsellor who you are confident with, or
approach the local Community Health Service.
- Invest in your
family and friends. Take up a hobby or do a community service as a means
of maintaining a high level of usefulness and wellbeing.
- Later, consider
helping others. Sharing your experience may assist in helping others.
Adapted
from Nic Fothergill's
"Some Guidelines for Survivors of War"
and thoughts from Bernard Denner,
Centre for Advancement of Men's Health
|