Martin Gallagher
Depression and Mental Health Patient Stories
Martin Gallagher speaks candidly about parenting, depression, and anxiety in his blog, "Learning to Dad."
- Location: Wales, United Kingdom
About Martin Gallagher
Not afraid to speak about the discrimination directed towards his Gypsy, Romani, and Irish Traveller (GRT) heritage, Martin Gallagher is happy to address the misconceptions surrounding the Irish Traveller lifestyle.
In his work, he reflects on how much discrimination can affect the mental health of an entire community.
History of the Condition
Martin writes to raise awareness of depression and challenge toxic masculine perceptions (especially those from the patriarchal Irish Traveller community from which he hails).
He often uses a straight-talking but humorous approach to mental illness and parenting.
Martin Says:
"When I was 27 years old, I woke up paralysed from the neck down and didn't think I would see past that day. It wasn't until the doctors told me I'd had a severe anxiety attack that I thought I could have depression.
"From that day, I began to take my mental health seriously.
"Now diagnosed with depression, stress, and anxiety, I realise I've had these issues all my life. They were probably caused by the racism and discrimination I encountered and the pressure to hide my identity.
"Since my diagnosis, I have continued on my journey. I'm still learning to live with my condition and recognise the ups and downs.
"Writing about my experiences has helped me understand my mental health. It is an incredibly effective coping strategy. I believe that talking openly about depression has saved my life."
Articles By Martin Gallagher
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Date of preparation: March 2024
D: COB-GB-NP-00453 (V1.0) / T: COB-GB-NP-00451 (V1.0) / M: COB-GB-NP-00452 (V1.0)