A Day in The Life Of Claudette

Name:  Claudette Dorey

What does an average day look like for you? (Don’t be afraid to share about your mental health struggles!)

It varies because of my other health conditions. Mostly I have chronic fatigue due to my medication. My mood is very low in the mornings so it takes a long time for me to wake up. On a really bad day I will stay in bed and not see anyone. Some days I get very agitated and anxious and get panic attacks. Its at times like this I feel very lonely and isolated.

 

What steps do you find help you when struggling with your mental health struggles?

Having my family and true friends around me helps also writing helps me as it distracts me from thinking about my situation. Also I have had had counselling this helps as I can express my feelings and examine my thoughts. When I am not tired keeping busy and having a structure to my day.

 

How do you find your mental health struggles affect those around you?

My family and partner are very good. But this year it has been very difficult as my mum died also. Most of my good friends understand but some people have walked out of my life which has been very hurtful and made me feel worse about my situation. My partner also has mental health issues so although he is brilliant he struggles at time to cope with everything.

 

What’s one thing you love about yourself?

My ability to listen and reach out to others despite my own issues.

 

What are five things you are thankful for (other than family, friends, food and shelter –home)?

The skills I have acquired over the years such as legal skills.

My education

My career although it was cut short I have gained many valuable skills which have been transferable in other areas.

My faith

The voluntary work I have done and continue to do.

My Dogs

Getting involved with defying shadows

 

How has your life changed for the best from last year?

I am now doing blogging and finds this really helps with my depression also it gives me an insight into other stuff also the new friends I have met.

 

What’s your personal motto?

“Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent” Eleanor Roosevelt

 

What song is most played on your playlist?

Motown tracks I love Motown

 

If you had to pick a character from a movie or TV show, who do you relate most to?

Gemma Collins from the Reality TV show the only way is Essex. She is very much like me I see a lot of myself in her.

 

What motivates you?

Having a purpose such as writing my blogs because I know it will help others.

Claudette is a passionate campaigner and activist for mental health stigma and domestic abuse. She believes that everyone should be treated equally regardless of their disability or gender. She has diagnoses of Bipolar Disorder, endometriosis, Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia. Claudette has a certificate in Management studies.  Her interests include beauty, makeup, animals politics, current affairs and social networking.

You can follow Claudette on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.