Melbourne is a beautiful city but never go off your medication and end up in a Psychiatric Ward because...

I have horrible memories of being restrained by velcro straps to a cot sided hosptial bed, all because I wanted to go outsdie to smoke. After nine years I'm ready to leave, mainly because Doctors here have suggested ECT - not something I particulary want. It's a contriversial treatment, and I have read that many people are fine, then relapse after 6 months or so. I've been shocked by an electric fence, and that wasn't a pleasant experience - so even if they sedate you before sending an electrial current through your brain, it seems to me it would be the same kind of experience?
I have read many of Janet Frame's books.
May we never see the likes of Walter Freeman again, with his ice pick into eye sockets to sever the frrontal lobes. It makes me shudder.

Dear Nakake

I hope you are ok wherever you are, yes Melbourne is a beautiful city indeed, is the cost of living higher than here.

I am sorry about your dreadful memories of restraint, its supposed to be a calming process.

Are you coming back to NZ?

Love Martine

Hi Martine,

Yes, I'm coming back to NZ - I have to sell a car and some furniture and a fridge - I miss NZ so much, and I miss the family as well. I suppose the good thing is that despite my mental illness I have managed to work and have a good amout of superannuation saved away, until I am older.

I'm a llittle bit apprehensive about coming back to Auckland, I'll be starting all over again, trying to find work and accommodation, but at least I'll be around friends and family. It will be pretty emotional to meet up with them again!

Thanks for your kind words.
Nakake

Lucky girl coming back to Auckland.

I love Auckland and only left by mistake to go to Australia, horrid Police State,

I am glad to be back in Aotearoa, the bloddy weather is a pain in the pants though.

Look forward to seeing you soon on the board

martine