So tired of feeling like this

[catshatsandchats]

I've had depression for over 20 years. I've tried many antidepressants, nothing changes or not for long anyway. I've had cbt and talking therapy. I'm currently under my gp again, waiting for a referral to local MH team.

In the meantime, people with similar issues, is there anything that gets you out of that rotting in bed, unable to do anything phase?

I have zero motivation. I just lie in bed dozing or wrapped in a blanket in front of the tv, colouring on my tablet. If I have to do something I leave it to the very last minute, then get stressed.

Logically I know this has to change but I just can't.

Thanks for reading.

Depression drains you. Start with one tiny step, like sitting up or washing your face. Use the 5-minute rule and just begin for a few minutes. Small steps build momentum, and you’re already doing the right thing by getting help.

I don't want to come off the meds. I want to quit the opiates I'm taking. With my meds I was taking them every second night for a week there to try to reduce side effects of weight gain and my throat closing up when I'm eating making me choke.

It's changing all the direct debits that's the pain. If something goes out late .. or having to call the DWP regarding the bank account for benefits. I don't understand about having a second bank account. Surely you have to switch direct debits to qualify for the money?

Sometimes there is a rule about having two direct debits to transfer yes.

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/compare-best-bank-accounts/#natwestswitch

This article is quite good to see the current offers available.

For example my set up: Main current account with a bank (say Natwest) that my pay/pension goes into and direct debits come out of

Step 1: ask to open a second current account with the same bank (usually very quick as you are already a customer and will be the same online bank log in etc)

Step 2: Move two direct debits to the new account - you can either contact the person the direct debits is with or ask the bank to move them. Will take effect from the next due date (often the 1st). In my experience this is quick still.

Step 3: Make sure new account has enough money for the two direct debits and let them come out once.

Step 4: Apply for new account and offer up the second account you recently set up to be switched. Make sure you read rules and terms carefully so you aren't missing anything like transferring a certain amount etc.

Step 5: In a few months time once you've had your bonus you can now repeat the process and open another new account if there's any good offers available.

Remember when they ask you to top up a certain amount there's no reason you can't transfer in and back out again normally.

Its a bit of work if you don't want to close your main current account to get the set up but tbh it just means it takes a little bit longer.

If you haven't got a NatWest account there switch offer looks good as no direct debits.
I would go for a select account if you don't want to use it as your main account (rather than the reward one which has a monthly fee of £2pm)

You need to be able to pay in £1,250 within 60 days but no reason you can't take this straight back out again.

If you don't have any savings I think you would still qualify if you pay in a smaller amount, take it back out and pay it in again. However, I would try not to do this too much and vary the amounts in case it flags up something! If you are worried you could call NatWest first to check.

E.g £400 in, £400 out, £350 in, £350 out, £300 in, £300 out, £200 in, £200 out
£400 + £350 + £300 + £200 =£1,250.
Do it within 60 days to meet criteria.
It's the same money going back and forth so if you don't have £1,250 you can still meet criteria as it doesn't need to be one chunk.

Other than that you just need to set up and log into online banking. Worth it for £150

You don’t need motivation you need tiny steps.
Don’t aim big. Just sit up. Put your feet on the floor. Open a window. One small action at a time.
And keep pushing for proper support long-term depression often needs specialist care.

I agree with this and one thing that helps my mood is keeping the house really clean. I do it in short bursts. E.g, waiting for the kettle to boil I will throw in a load of laundry and clean the sink. I use the bathroom and just clean the toilet while I'm in there.

When it's all done and fresh I like to light a candle for a little ambience.

It gives me a focus and distraction, and makes me feel a bit better to be surrounded with cleanliness. I do know however this is subjective and that in some other people with low mood that would be the last thing they want to do

I really relate to this. Doing small tasks in short bursts actually makes a difference. It’s not about being perfect, just about doing something. Glad you found what works for you.