Cliff

Trustee & Charity Secretary

I suffered from Bipolar disorder while at the University of Leeds in the early 1970’s when it was called manic depression. I suffered a severe depression which was terrifying as it was unexpected and I had to learn how to survive it. Luckily I didn’t have to suffer that long as I was given Lithium treatment in its early days which removed the effects of this illness entirely.

I went on to have a successful career in London at computer software development, a happy marriage, and a wonderful daughter. I kept fairly quiet about my illness as I didn’t think that other people would understand. The only time I had a recurrence of this illness was when I experimented with stopping my lithium.

I discovered MDF the manic depression fellowship (now called Bipolar UK) in the late 1990’s. I started attending local meetings in Twickenham and found these meetings very inspiring as I was able to talk about my experiences to people who found it relevant for the first time. After a while I took over as organiser and group facilitator. It was a very successful group as people attending seemed to gain support and encouragement and it was a very friendly environment. I continued with this group for around 15 years and it was one of the most satisfying things I have been a part of and I want to continue with this sort of activity. After this I had a lengthy recurrence of this endogenous depression as I found that lithium no longer worked until I found another mood stabilizer that worked for me. I managed to get through that period of illness due to the support of others and my previous experiences.

I have become associated with Take Off for a few years now and really like what they are doing and the way they do it. I am proud to be a trustee involved with this great group of people.