'Mental health is something of a misnomer if you ask me; there are often physical symptoms too and these can be quite debilitating. It's hard to describe and explain them to others, particularly to non-sufferers. I wouldn't wish them on anybody. Luckily, sometimes, they can be managed and short-lived - if you're prepared to put your faith in the specialists!'
A loaf of bread
Sits in my head.
"That's depression."
The doctor said.
This swollen dough,
It makes me slow.
"Twas in the post,
I told you so!"
What else was mailed?
My memory's failed.
My string of pearls
Has been curtailed.
My sight grows dim.
It's closing in.
I can't face work;
What's happening?
I've prickly heat
From hands to feet
And can't remain
Long in my seat.
I just hear noise,
Not girls and boys.
My confidence
Holds little poise.
At gatherings,
My spirit sings,
Longing to run
From joyous things.
Lacking in sleep,
I start to weep.
"Swallow these pills."
Down, down, I seep.
"Some exercise,
That would be wise,
To ease the ache
Behind your eyes."
My brain, once quick,
With weeds is thick.
My counsellor
Tries to unpick.
The loaf of bread
Sits in my head.
That's depression,
Just as I said.