Читать книгу A Girl Called Tim - June Alexander - Страница 4

In 35 years of knowing June I have come to respect her writing talent and her ability to describe what has happened in her life. She recognises that mental illnesses existing in our community are frequently misunderstood, often misdiagnosed and therefore go untreated. I believe her story will benefit many sufferers of mental illness, together with their families and friends, and provide helpful insights for mental health professionals.

Each story, of course, is personal and this is June’s story. As all good clinicians know, it is important for people who are ‘suffering’—as a result of life events, which have had major influences—to discuss and deal with their distress. Overcoming anxiety, such as a real or perceived fear of rejection, can be liberating and uplifting.

At times in June’s journey, she candidly describes crossing the fine line between being ‘well’ and ‘unwell’ mentally—that is, losing all sense of self in an environment where awareness and acknowledgement of mental illness are minimal.

Her story illustrates the importance of early intervention when a child or adolescent develops a mental illness. In June’s case, anorexia nervosa. Apart from putting mental, emotional and physical health at risk, the illness can have a severe and long-term impact on relationships.

Psychotherapies, of which there are many kinds, are quite complex. They must be individualised. June appears to have benefited greatly from what has happened to her and has a clear understanding of what has been important to her wellbeing. Perceptions are not necessarily facts, but they are important in the way they influence the sufferer. Discussing things openly and trying to understand them with support is usually very helpful.

The role of psychotherapy and/or medication is at times controversial. Many people with mental illness, and their families, are reluctant to try the addition of pharmacological approaches, but in June’s case, it was of great benefit. She freely acknowledges that she needed medication. I recognise that many people are opposed to medication but it is a great aid to many, especially when anxiety levels become too high.

June has researched her subject thoroughly and has spoken to many sufferers, care givers, clinicians and academics. She has recognised that there are many women (usually) aged in their twenties, thirties, forties and beyond, whose lives are inhibited because childhood experiences have gone undetected, untreated or ignored. She is of the opinion that discussing such experiences with an appropriate therapist is beneficial and should be encouraged. Her story illustrates that a trusting relationship, no matter what is going on, is extremely important and that with the right guidance, support and care, quality of life can be enhanced at any age.

The same person cannot help us all and it is important for sufferers to persist until they find the right therapist. As June explains, she tried others before she found what she believed to be the right one, and wants others to take this approach. Do not give up. The hard work and perseverance brings rewards.

Readers will find inspiration in the pages to follow and I wish you well in continuing your own journey.

Graham D. Burrows, AO, KCSJ

BSc, MB, ChB, DPM, MD, DipMHlthSc(Clinical Hypnosis)

DSc, FRANZCP, FRCPsych, MRACMA, FAChAM

PROFESSOR OF PSYCHIATRY

President of the Mental Health Foundation of Australia