Up until 2004,life was good at work.Yes I worked hard,but very rewarding.In that time we went to Vancouver, Toronto. Both were great.Nicola was a big fan of Byran Adams,and wanted to visit he's home town.She went with Marina for her eighteenth Birthday .I went with Marina and Alan,for he's eighteenth. Marina and I went to Toronto in early January, very cold. We did the helicopter trip over the falls,breath taking.Then on Valentine's day 2004 we went to America, did the works.Las Vegas ,the Grand Canyon, London Bridge etc.We also started to get back on the broads. Sadly that year things started to go wrong.I was getting blamed often for things that won't my fault or beyond my control. Lots of this was coming from the General Manager. Even to this day ,I cant doubt he's skill and commitment to the job,but he did bully me.This had a lasting affect on me and my health. So much so I was drinking and smoking far too much,and becoming very depressed. This got to the point that I couldn't cope anymore.One night I walked out never to return.I was referred to a councillor, which was not that useful. I attended a self help group, which was more helpful. Slowly things improved. MV kept me on paid leave for three months then we parted company. This was very sad.For all but one year I was happy,that last year was hard on me and in many respects the family.When I started to feel better,I wanted to go out,didn't matter where,just felt more at ease in doing so.Then back to looking for another job.
Back then care regarding Mental Health wasn't in my opinion that good.In recent years care has got better.That said I think now it's almost used as a badge.How many times have we heard mental health is made worse by lockdown. For some theres no doubt it has affected them. However for many its challenging,but doesn't affect mental health. I was in a bad way for some time.Thankfully I came through it.
Next time slow but sure life gets better.