Episode 8: A doctors journey from depression to recovery with Dr Philip McGweon

Philip McGweon is a 47-year-old Paediatric doctor (Children’s doctor) and spoke to me about his journey from having depression, through to recovery. These are exactly the conversations I want to put out there, to remind everyone, that you are not alone, there is a name for what you are feeling, and recovery is possible. These are some of the topics we covered:

• Mental health and wellbeing in the NHS 20 years ago. 
• The landscape of junior doctor training in the 2000’s
• The insidious nature of depression
• Taking anti-depressants and seeing a psychiatrist. 
• Medication stigma amongst doctors.
• Engaging with CBT.
• How Philip tried to manage by “pushing through” but this led to further deterioration. 
• Problem with presenteeism.
• Journey of recovery through CBT
• Importance of sleep for recovery.
• Lifestyle measures- nutrition, nature, connection, and movement as part of a holistic recovery
• Cold water swimming for recovery
• Post-traumatic growth state.
• The beautiful relationship and understanding he has with his daughter.
• The power of peer support groups and his experience with them.
• Stigma-sharing is the way to stop it. 
• His plans for the future- getting back into work, staying well, and making sure others get the help. 

If you need support please check out these groups below which are for doctors and nurses. Book an appointment with your GP to explore talking therapies, antidepressants or an onward referral to a Psychiatrist. 

Men's peer support group:

Humen Monday 6:30pm https://www.wearehumen.org

Support for Health professionals:

YouOkayDoc Huddle every Wednesday 7pm: https://youokaydoc.org.uk/huddle/ 

YouOkayNurse https://youokaynurse.org.uk

Doctors in Distresshttps://doctors-in-distress.org.uk

Royal Medical  Benevolent Fund https://rmbf.org

To connect with Philip:
https://linktr.ee/Dr.mental.wealth
Instagram  @dr.mental.wealth
Twitter @DMentalWealth
E-mail:  atom95149@gmail.com

Donate for his next Sea Swim 5K in July for Great Ormond Street
https://www.facebook.com/donate/1027984667824773/?fundraiser_source=external_url

Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended to substitute or serve as medical advice. These are my own opinions and experiences of my guests. Please see your own medical practitioner for support.