Depression

[Deshasafraisy]

How do you manage it, I need to start feeling better.

Do you know that there is a Mental Health topic? I may be wrong, but I'm wondering whether you'd get more replies on there.

I take anti-depressants, and have in the past had a lot of therapy. Have you spoken to your GP and been completely honest about how you're feeling? If you're already on ADs, bear in mind that there are a lot of different types - so it could be worth increasing your does or trying a different type. I tried loads before I found one that was right for me.

I changed my life. Sounds naff, but it's the old adage of doing the same thing over and over and expecting the results to change - I'd been depressed for 16 years (with meds on and off) and nothing made a real impact.

Then I was randomly assigned a therapist who helped me change my life. The key was self awareness, I always ruminated on failure and missed opportunities, but never on my successes.

It started with acknowledging and rewarding my successes (no matter how small) and then when I felt up to it, making bigger choices that would improve my health. I changed my job focus, joined a social club and took up new crafts. I reassessed some unbalanced relationships, and although I didn't break contact - I could look at them from a new perspective and manage expectations e.g. DM will never want to pop to a cafe for a cup of tea, but that's because she's antisocial and detached - not because I've failed her.

Anyway, basically, there's no quick fix. I'm now depression-free for a year (but fully aware it could creep back) because I made active changes. But that's just my story. Good luck :)

Thanks so much for the replies. I will have a look at the mental health boards.
I am not on any medication nor have a sought help from my gp. I struggle to find the strength to ask for help/admit I need it. I know I need to though.

The things that have always made a difference to me are anti-depressants, therapy and running. Depression is an illness that needs treated - you can overcome it with help. Talking to your GP would be a really good first step.

I hope you feel better soon x

May I strongly recommend that you read "Depressive Illness - the curse of the strong" by Dr Tim Cantopher. I was like you - I did;t want to ask for help. That book really helped me to accept that it was ok to ask for help.

chocolateworshipper - thank you, i have just ordered it from amazon. Hopefully it will help me make that appointment.

I really appreciate all the comments so far, thank you. The kindness of strangers. ❤️

Good luck OP, I sincerely wish you well. I would definitely have an appointment with your GP and also seek some assistance from MIND, who are really helpful. Be kind to yourself and know that it's really OK to ask for help, it's not a weakness in any shape or form. Thoughts going your way .

MissusGeneHunt
Thank you, that’s really kind