I am experiencing a clinical or episodic depression and for a month I have been living in desperation. I saw my MD and was started on an SSRI but of course I won't notice a difference for at least 3 weeks and I am struggling to hold on. I know I am not alone as many people have felt my pain and survived. Many have welcomed the pain as they grew from the experience and are living a better life. I'm all for the "big picture" but the overwhelming waves of grief and despair are wearing me thin and I just want to escape. I force myself to go out and be social as much as I am able, I try to exercise and listen to the self help tapes and so forth. It feels like I am white knuckling my way through this and I don't know how long my strength will carry me. I can't find peace right now, not even in prayer or self reflection. I saw a psychologist last week who advised that this depression was distorting my thought process and I agree with her.
Can anyone share something, anything that may help me
2006-11-04 11:48:52 · 15 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Mental Health
Hey
You are definately not alone!
I struggled alone for 7 years before admitting to myself and to my friends that I needed help. My family has a large stigma against mental disorders, and telling them was never an option.
I have Major Depressive Disorder. I was put on SSRI's for one year- brand name of celexa. By the point that they put me on the meds, I was quickly spiraling out of control and felt so alone.
My suggestion for right now is not to look at the big picture. The big picture will come, but right now it's not as important as you may think it is. Look at the little things- be happy for little accomplishments.
I know how hard it can be to get out of bed in the morning and start the day. And some days I still can't face it- thankfully my boyfriend understands and lets me take things at my own pace. Look at the little things as accomplishments. Make a list for the day, but don't be angry if you don't complete it. Celebrate the things you did, make little goals for things you want to do.
I still suffer from Major Depressive Disorder, but am not currently on medication (I can't afford it), so I have developed other ways that work for me. I live day to day and celebrate the little things. I work at my pace and keep busy so that I don't have the time to think.
No matter how bad you feel right now- don't give up. It's worth the struggle. And if you can't be strong for yourself right now, let someone else help you- or lean on God. "If He leads you to it, He'll lead you through it".
My favorite two pieces of literature that I found that helped are the poems "Footprints" and "Desiderata". Find poetry or stories that make you feel calmer for reading. (I also highly recommend the Chicken Soup books!)
I hope this helped- I know that it may not seem worth it right now, but please keep it up- I promise it's worth it!
God Bless!
2006-11-04 12:29:39 · answer #1 · answered by kiwi 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Been there, done that. It really is tough to get through those 3 weeks. Talk to as many family members and friends that will let you whine. Talking about it with people who care about you helps. I have been very fortunate to have a strong support network. Prayer is good. Cry out to God for mercy. Understand that the pain you are feeling now is an experience you may need to help someone else later. I know that all these things sound like pretty words that are little consolation. However, you sound like you have a level head, but your going through a rough patch. Stay strong and try not to dwell on one problem very long. Take care, you will feel better soon.
2006-11-04 12:07:00 · answer #2 · answered by firefly 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Been there, done that.
Best advice I can give is to hang in there. Console yourself that this is only a temporary situation. It will get better and do as you said, treat it as a learning experience.
Force yourself to go out and hang out with positive people. Take your meds and go to counseling.
It won't change overnight but, it will get better eventually.
Most depressions are situational and when those things improve so will the symptoms.
Rollercoaster rides are both fun and terrifying but, if you don't experience the lows you don't appreciate the highs. You have nothing for comparison.
I know it all sounds cliche' but, truth be told, what you're getting in the way of help (meds and counsel) is as good as it gets.
I got over mine (primarily because it wasn't a chemical imbalance and I didn't want/need meds) but, because I just decided that "here" is NOT where I want to be. I pulled myself up, dusted myself off, went out and proactively sought to improve my situation and vowed that I'd never be there again and here I am. No worse for the wear and tear but, tons wiser.
I wish you all the best and I hope you can overcome.
2006-11-04 12:04:04 · answer #3 · answered by pjnickles 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I had that experience in my twenties. Even to this day I may have that feeling that it is had to hold on. But I did. Life got eaiser with a therapist and with the meds I needed. I know to hold on and life will get better. try not to isolate. If you can go out or complete some project each day it would be good. I hope you have a good therapist that is kind and can guide you to a place of comfort and support. Know that you are not alone. While we do not know you personally, know that you are loved.
2006-11-04 12:24:31 · answer #4 · answered by copestir 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have lived all my life with what is being called "melancholic depression" and have had a few periods of major depression. I have tried various therapies and medications with no real positive results. Of course medications have proven helpful to MANY people, so stick with it and give it time. Always remember that "this too shall pass".
What has kept me going is consciously making an effort to find things to be thankful for. Even if it's something as inane as a green light when I'm in a hurry, or a good parking space when my feet are tired. When I feel upset or insecure about being overweight, I remind myself that I am lucky to live a life of relative luxury, where food is in abundance and technology has reduced the need for physical labor.
I do hate when someone says that it could be worse, as it seems so condescending -- but the fact of the matter is, it could! you could be living in war-torn Iraq or Afghanistan, or a refugee from Dharfur. So it seems silly and simple, but literally counting my blessings has helped me change my perspective in life. Feel free to contact me (click my name/avatar, then Contact) if you need someone to chat with. I wish you many blessings...
2006-11-04 11:59:49 · answer #5 · answered by HearKat 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It may help to look at things in perspective. You are not alone. You have much to look forward to once these meds begin to show affect. You went out and sought help which means that you care enough about yourself and your life to seek happiness.
Depression is a clinically defined disease. None of your feelings are your fault. None of it is worth placing blame, b/c you can't help it.
Try to think about the possibilities when you start to feel better. Think about how great it will feel to crack up laughing, so not be burdened by sadness or disappointment. Life can be great, and you will be able to experience that!
Hang in there. I know it's hard, but it gets better.
2006-11-04 11:54:19 · answer #6 · answered by carmenPI 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I feel really bad for you and wish I could give you some answer's or advice because I was very suicidal & extremely depressed when my husband passed away a couple years ago so I know how bad depression can get - if you feel your going to do something to harm yourself - get help immediately - depression can be bad I know. I pray for you - God pray's for you. I hope you get better and get over your depression. Also, if you can - trying to find the root of why your so depressed might be a help. Good luck to you and again - I'll pray for you.
2006-11-04 12:00:04 · answer #7 · answered by You'llneverguess 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
sometimes life sucks. just get through it. i know from experience how bad life can be, and how you feel that you didnt do anything that could possibly warrant having things so bad. But you know what? Jesus didnt deserve what happened to him either. People just giving you pad on the back and wishing you luck can be inspirational, but it only lasts for 10 minutes, then your back to yourself again. Jesus' message has lasted for 2006 years now, and is still just as strong for those who listen to it. The answer lies in him, not in me or anybody else here. Prayer is the best solution.
2006-11-04 12:28:11 · answer #8 · answered by Adam 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My friend has depression.. yet i dont know what i can do to help except listen to her... i have tried to get her to talk to a counsellor but she wont, she says the only person who can stop it is herself.... spending more time with family and friends can help, as well as having a positive attitude towards life... i suggest you to go to a beach if you live near one, and just look out to the ocean while sitting on the sand and just think about your life, everything that has happened. I really dont know how else to help, just do things that can make u happy.... and dont put yourself down either. i hope this helps
2006-11-04 11:54:09 · answer #9 · answered by ♥ уσυ вєℓσηg ωιтн мє ♥ 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Try to develop a thankful attitude. Write down everything you are thankful for. If you are lacking sleep try to get a good night's sleep. When you go out put makeup on, do your hair, dress nicely and you'll feel better. Try to look into different types of volunteer work you'd be suited for. Make sure and get fresh air.
2006-11-04 11:55:07 · answer #10 · answered by ? 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋