Quote Originally Posted by Leaf View Post
Further to my earlier post about whether I can justify the cost to the NHS in treating me: whilst I appreciate the kind comments that I AM worth helping, it's still a serious point that I'm struggling with. Surely, with a very limited budget, the NHS would do better to treat mothers / fathers whose children rely on them than single, childless people? Selfishly, I'd like to think I've got this wrong and that my life is just as valuable, but as much as I think about it, I can't see it.

So are people here just being kind (thank you), or is there really a reason to consider my life (and the lives of other single people with no dependants) as equally worth trying to help?
Ah yes, Leaf: single, childless people aren't worth much. After all, what did Jesus of Nazareth, Queen Elizabeth the First or Ludwig van Beethoven ever do for society?

But seriously, your life and health are just as valuable as anyone else's, regardless of marital status or parenthood. You may not be shaking up the world like the three people I mentioned above, but I'm sure you are making your contribution and that many people would be very upset if you weren't around any more.

Where being single does make a difference is that it leaves you more vulnerable to depression. From my personal experience: more than 30 years ago, when I was single, difficulties at work led to me spiralling into a depression that it took me several months to recover from, even after I had resigned the job. I have had some very similar s**t dealt to me at work in the last two years, but have taken it on the chin without getting depressed. My marriage could not be described as perfect bliss, but it has given me that mental stability to fall back on.

As for whether you are not worth being treated by the NHS: even the Prime Minister thinks that more resources should be devoted to mental health! http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-38548567