Participant Eleven: K

“Medication sometimes helps and sometimes it doesn't. I wouldn't just say medication, therapy has to go with it. Those in charge of medication should listen to patients more so they can understand what medicine is right for them, what dosage and when to take it. They [those suffering from mental illness] are not like animals who cannot speak. They should know how they are feeling so the psychiatrists can help them.”

“My desk was always a mess for years. I’m trying to do something about my life and when I try it doesn't always work out for me. I wonder whether it's the mess. Mental health is chaotic and puts you in disarray. I use my computer, I write a lot. I’m a member of a steering group for mental health. Even in the midst of all that chaos, I still do my work online, like applying for jobs.”

“This room was filled up to the ceiling. No-one sees it unless I give permission. It is symbolic of my mind – chaotic and cluttered – but no-one has access to it.”

“I have started my own personal project in my flat and that is how to declutter my surrounding. When my surrounding is like this as you have seen in the photos, I find it difficult to function properly. Hence, on a good day I try very much to declutter my surrounding which means decluttering my mind. The titles of some of the books in the bookcase are hidden because when things were extremely bad for me, I found myself reacting to images or written works. I believe and hope that all that is in the past now. My reaction could mean me feeling physically uncomfortable, very restless and anxious.”

“I have started my own personal project in my flat and that is how to declutter my surrounding. When my surrounding is like this as you have seen in the photos, I find it difficult to function properly. Hence, on a good day I try very much to declutter my surrounding which means decluttering my mind. The titles of some of the books in the bookcase are hidden because when things were extremely bad for me, I found myself reacting to images or written works. I believe and hope that all that is in the past now. My reaction could mean me feeling physically uncomfortable, very restless and anxious.”