Colin was successfully treated for prostate cancer in his 60s. In the years following, he gradually became 'irritable, withdrawn, self-centred and anxious which took a toll on his marriage. A visit to a men's support group prompted him to see his GP, who diagnosed depression and prescribed antidepressants. After Colin found a medication that suited him, he started to feel better. He is now active in peer support groups, and his wife has told him she feels that she has her partner back.

Emma was diagnosed with postnatal depression following the birth of her second child. This came as a complete shock as was her first experience of mental health problems. Practical and emotional support from her mother and sister, talking therapy, and antidepressant medication helped Emma through this difficult period. After a year she felt she was back to her 'old self' and was able to cease her medication. She would like to see her counsellor again for some 'maintenance therapy'.

Despite hot flushes and eighteen months of erratic periods, Maureen feels she sailed through the menopause. She describes it as a liberating experience bringing relief from the pain and inconvenience of periods, as well as increased self-confidence.