15 Comments

"I’ve also been blown away by all the private messages from people saying they’re struggling too- whether it be from burnout or depression, and trying to help people understand that it’s ok, and that good will come from their struggles is what this blog is all about."

THIS BIT

Expand full comment

Cheers Sammo! What about that bit that resonates?

Expand full comment

Just very similar happened with me when I started sharing my own struggles on Twitter. Sometimes complete strangers would message me saying they were experiencing the same or similar. Thanking me for sharing because it’d helped them or others too. It’s so fucking comforting after sharing something that makes you feel a little vulnerable to have people reach out and lend some support. It’s surprising because I guess when you write what you write or whatever you can sometimes kinda walk away questioning whether anyone really gives a shit. There’s just so much comfort in company.

Expand full comment

Couldn't agree more mate, and that's a big part of why I love the R4R rag so much. Been blown away learning that almost everyone has some sort of struggle going on, and I reckon social media has made us all think that everyone's life is amazing and full of business class airfares to Italy. Something very comforting in knowing that most of us are all struggling in one way or another, and that we can struggle along together we're open about it.

Expand full comment

Yeah 100%. That’s why I’ve removed almost all social media. It’s predominately bullshit. That and it’s a waste of time. If you’re not conscious that people are only sharing their hi-lights it can be a mental trap. If you’re not feeling great about yourself already, your susceptible to feeling like less of a person because you’re not doing the shit that others are.

Expand full comment

Spot on

Expand full comment

Great stuff mate many years and blogs to come!!

Expand full comment

Cheers mate!

Expand full comment

It's amazing what sharing can do, and how much less alone you are. When you're in it and you don't talk about it you feel like you're the only one, but when you openly talk about it, others come forward and it sparks a "me too" movement.

I recently read Johann Hari's book lost connections, it was fabulous! If you haven't read it already I highly recommend it Ben. I also think you're an ideal person for the Imperfects podcast and should reach out to them :).

Thanks for your vulnerability Ben, I enjoy reading your blog every week and often tell my patients about them too.

Expand full comment

Sharing struggles is amazing, however too many people label "putting your hand up and asking for help" as "whinging/complaining", and I'm trying to help people see that there's a big difference between the two.

Love Johann Hard and his work. Saw him speak in Canberra few years back, and his interview on the Joe Rogan Experience was incredible.

Your most welcome Clare and thanks for your support!!!

Expand full comment

As Brene said (and nailed): ‘The two most powerful words when we're in struggle: Me Too’

Love your work Benny. x

Expand full comment

Love your work too Doc! Me too indeed.

Expand full comment

Congrats on the Birthday anniversary !!

Expand full comment

Wow! I felt the pressure you had to do it perfectly.

My writing project is on 2 v different therapies that treat Imposter Syndrome in medics in a couple of hours.

Your blog post really resonated & not sure if you’d be interested in seeing that idea fleshed put a little to see if it would work for you?

Expand full comment

Cheers Dr Gardner. Thanks for the congrats and I'm very interested. Please send your idea to ben@alfredapp.com.au

Expand full comment