Not sure if I'm really depressed or just feeling down?

[Icantstopeatinglol]

What's the real difference?
I've been feeling low for a while now but putting off speaking to a gp cos I don't want to go on anti depressants as I'm already on meds for a health issue (which is part of the reason I'm so low).
I can't concentrate which is affecting me at work. I feel like I have a million things to deal with when actually I just need to be more organised (easier said than done). I also feel like a failure a lot of the time apart from where my dc are concerned as I love them so much and would do anything for them.
There are other things but I won't bore you with but another thing is I constantly feel like people don't like me and I'm always feeling like I'm putting people out when I ask for help so I don't much?
Anyway hope that makes sense!
Do I just need a kick up the arse??

Speak to a GP, speak to friends and family. No you don't need a kick up the arse, many people feel like this.

Take time for yourself.

Just spotted your post as I was going to bed so hopefully others will come along with sage advice.

Most of all, don't beat yourself up. Tis getting more normal with people, life's so hard.

xx

Thanks Monty, I'm just not sure if it's a phase or wether I need to do something about it. I think from anyone else looking in I seem fine but I do feel like I'm struggling. I'm happy to stay in the house the majority if the time but then feel like life is passing by without us doing anything with the dc and that makes me sad too.

I have asked myself the same question at some point, it's a tough one.

I ended up going to see my GP and it was really clear as soon as I spoke to her. She had this questionnaire that made it all much easier to understand and the diagnostic was quite obvious.
I am aware that not everyone has the same experience but in theory, this is the first place to go after MN of course to try and find your answer

Good luck

One of the best helps for me is to unburden myself to someone. Who can you talk to?
My GP isn't terribly good to talk to, too busy.

Thanks jingle, I know if I speak to the gp I'll cry which is why I think I'm avoiding it. I've done a few of the online 'depression' tests and they say moderate to severe depression but I feel weird thinking it's that bad when I can get through the day normally(ish) but it's definitely a struggle and I've lost all my confidence. Just wish I was back to normal.

I can talk to my dh and he does keep asking if I'm ok but I just say I'm fine when I know I'm not! I'm on medication and I don't know if that's having an affect on my moods.
Think I'll make an appointment to see my gp. I've got 2 gorgeous dc so need to get this sorted.

I've made an appointment to see my gp tonight so hopefully she can offer something. Don't want drugs but counselling may help? Thanks for your advise.

Hi there. I am the same when I have depression, I can function but inside I'm in a black hole of despair. I'm not saying you have depression but just wanted to point out people can function. For me antidepressants work and have revolutionised my life. However there are lots of other ways to improve low mood such as excersise, counselling, homeopathic things. But the first step is a medical opinion which you have started. I think taking control is the first step to feeling better.

Hi jinglebells, I just think people will think I'm making it all up and I don't want to break down on front of them just to prove it. I know I don't have to but I feel a fake but I am really struggling.

I think that's quite a common feeling - the we must stay strong and not admit we need help but the relief when we do is worth it. If your best friend said these things to you what would you say to them?

When you go to the docs, you may cry and that's ok. Also it may be worth taking a few notes to give to them incase you are a bit nervous. Or show them this thread.

Thanks jinglebells, feel nervous now for my appt tonight but I must go if I want things to get better. Thanks for your advice x

Just checking in to see how it went. No need to reply if you don't want to. Just thought I would let you know I was thinking about you!