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BS: sliding into a depression
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Subject: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,rd Date: 12 Jan 02 - 05:28 AM I'm recognising the signs that I'm sliding back into depression, negative self thoughts, things that I used to enjoy are now a burden. 12 months after stopping anti-depressants I've accomplished more I would have dreamed possible then, new friends, performing in public, learning new instruments, but now it's starting to be too hard keeping it going. The only thing I want to do is sleep for 6 months. (& eat large amounts of chocolate). I know there are many people who have infinitely worse problems to deal with than me, one friend regularly self-harms to the point of risking death. I'm sure there are 'catters there who are fighting off the miasma - how do you do it ?? ??? Try to reduce some pressures, tell myself ?????? when I find I'm thinking "I'm useless" etc.
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: alanabit Date: 12 Jan 02 - 07:59 AM First good thing is that you are recognising the signs and are prepared to do something about it. When I am in the same position - feeling useless, helpless etc I get the feeling that I can't possibly cope with all the problems I have to deal with. This is tempting to give in to because it is based on a half truth. The reality is that I can't deal with everything at once. The trick I use is to start on the one thing I can do - however small and trivial it is. On days when I had no money to settle bills, no gigs and the weather ruled out even busking, I would do things like clean my flat, return the library books etc. The simple act of doing anything useful helped me to begin overcoming the feeling of helplessness. Above all, I made myself feel that I was using my time usefully. The other important trick is never to feel guilty about making mistakes. People forgive you for all sorts of mistakes. I think it's better to make a mistake and learn from it than to stay passive. Failures can jolt your confidence, but apathy will certainly sap it. If you are having financial problems - take the initiative and go to the bank, the electricity board or whatever first. It shows them that you are willing to do something about it - and more important - it tells you that you are not simply abandoning yourself to fate. I found that this helped my confidence. Very few officials really like picking on a real live human face in front of them. It is much easier for them to behave ruthlessly to someone they do not see in the flesh. (I am not bullshitting here - at one time I was a tax official). A conscious decision to be active in the face of my problems has always done more to stave off depression than any quick fix remedy I have encountered. This is what always worked for me. You have the guts to seek help and the self knowledge to recognise the signs of trouble.It's a good sign that you are learning to cope. Good luck. I think you are on your way. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: kendall Date: 12 Jan 02 - 08:02 AM If you find something that works, let me know. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: CarolC Date: 12 Jan 02 - 08:06 AM Was there any particular reason you stopped the anti-depressants? Would you consider going back on them again? |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: RichM Date: 12 Jan 02 - 09:21 AM The recognition that your depression is returning is a good sign. Don't try to resolve this by yourself. See your doctor. You may need to return to medication or get some psychiatric counselling. I've tried stopping medication a couple of times. Each time I gradually slid back into depression---without realizing it! Rich McCarthy
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,Gern Date: 12 Jan 02 - 09:42 AM I agree with the other concerned correspondents: By reaching out and confronting your 'slide,' you are already helping yourself. Depression is something that grows in the dark, for me, at least. When I ignore or avoid it, it spreads itself insidiously. When I force it out in the open, in my own conscience mind or especially when I expose it to the scrutiny of others, it tends to recede. Don't cut yourself off from others, including those trained to help you cope. Don't demand satisfaction from those activities (music?) which have satisfied you in the past---just keep doing them, and the pleasure will return. Find some faith in the resiliency of your own mind, which can spring back from depression if allowed to do so. If the good things in your life currently are not feeling so rewarding, continue to pursue them patiently for their own sake---the rewards will return. Meanwhile, rest assured that others (including several of us at Mudcat, no doubt) know the emptiness you're feeling and care enough to want to help. "We all need someone we can lean on..." |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Allan C. Date: 12 Jan 02 - 09:43 AM I completely agree with all the above but would like to submit one other thing to try in addition but not instead. Try something new. I mean that you might think about some interests that you have not explored completely and begin to put some efforts in those directions. If you had always meant to try to do some painting, then get yourself a small set of paints and a canvas or watercolor paper and begin. If you have had a secret desire to learn rock climbing skills, then get out and do it. Staying kinetic in some fashion will help to prevent the dust of depression from settling on you. Many times the stimulation of new experiences and accomplishments can be helpful in allowing the rest of your brain to work on sorting some of the other issues that are causing difficulty. It is the "sorting" part that is the most important. Depression generally stems from a feeling of not being able to solve some issues. Eventually, those issues must be faced in order to move on. The new pursuit you may investigate is simply something to do while you are working on the real issues.
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Mr Red Date: 12 Jan 02 - 09:44 AM from the the symptoms you describe I would say look into the possibility of SAD, cabin fever. In any event check your sleep patterns. If you feel night time sleep is unrewarding or then it won't be helping any. It is sometimes easier to readjust sleep patterns by delaying the cycle (get a full 8 hours) gradually until you come round to the achievable and regular sleep time. Not that working people can fit that in but remember we humans have a natural diurnal cucle of 27 hours so that even if it is messed -up a bit the earth day will reset it. That is the other clue - get some really strong light for a few hours (daylight is deceptive the eye is logarithmic and daylight is very strong). Doctors will tell you about seratonin levels and there are pills but some foods have it. It might be worth investigating such foods - start with carrots. Oh - and there is always Mudcat . |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,Gern Date: 12 Jan 02 - 09:49 AM It's worth noting, by the way, that this appeal for help has attracted three responses in the last three minutes! While we here at Mudcat find no shortage of things to gripe about and abuse each other with, there is a powerful sense of caring for our community. Guest, you came to the right place! |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: marty D Date: 12 Jan 02 - 11:42 AM Feeling depressed and ALONE is the absolute worst situation a human being can be in. Knowing that others understand what you're feeling is the first step to fighting back. The next is to get back on the meds. That's what they're for. marty |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Knitpick Date: 12 Jan 02 - 11:47 AM Two things: 1. Stay active. Exercise, whether it's work or play, helps a lot. 2. DON'T listen to any Richard Thompson songs! Songbob Clayton |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST Date: 12 Jan 02 - 12:06 PM Alanabit is right in everything he says (as are others....) - its imprortant to achieve a little something every day...something that you can take a little 'pride' in having got done. Depression is just too big a black mass of troubles to tackle all at once, but it helps chipping little bits off that big black mass...its slow work, but after a while, hopefully you can see it getting appreciably smaller Best Wishes, ANON. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Steve in Idaho Date: 12 Jan 02 - 12:26 PM I've battled depression for close to 40 years. This is what works for me most of the time. 1) Exercise - EVERY day (minimum of 20 minutes) 2) Stay on my meds - even if it seems they are not working or I don't really need them anymore (this has been a buggar as I don't like feeling dependent on something to make me feel better) 3) Get up at about the same time each day and go to bed about the same time each day. We really only need 6-8 hours of sleep a day. 4) Talk to someone who will accept you and not pass judgement (just a great listener - "Tell me more" type responses) 5) See your doctor - preferably a Psychiatrist as they specialize in medications and how they interface with the brain and work to rectify affective disorders. 6) Avoid other bummed out/negative people like the plaugue. They may be your best friends but you need someone who is neutral at a minimum right now. Anytime I don't do the above I slip - I slip anyway but the above really minimizes the impact. Steve |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 12 Jan 02 - 12:31 PM Having committed myself to a Psychiatric Ward many years ago, I know what you are feelings, as many other Mudcatters do. One thing that amazed me when I came out after 17 days, was how many people I know have gone through depressions, and how many others realized that they had and regretted not getting any help. I think all the advice given here is good, and helpful. We each have our own stories to tell, but one thing that I'd encourage you doing is seek out those who can sincerely encourage you. I was in a situation where the closest person I could turn to was just trying to bring on my depression. One of the hardest things to do in life is to love yourself. There is this misunderstanding about loving yourself and being selfish. I think that the only way that you can become a loving, generous, outward-looking person is to love yourself, forgive yourself, and don't let ANYONE rub your nose in the past. It's beautiful to see the concern and love from Mudcatters. Most of us are cyber-friends... can't be there in person to throw an arm around your shoulder or sit up with you all night. I'e seen friends go into depressioon when it seemed to be the only mentally healthy thing to do. Sometimes, life IS depressing. But, you've ridden through a depression before, and you will do it again. You don't mention a belief in God... if you have that, it gives a different dimension to the whole experience. That doesn't mean that you can't find your way back on your own, or through friends and counsellors. And, you've got a lot of friends here at Mudcat. Count me in. Jerry |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Bobert Date: 12 Jan 02 - 01:41 PM First and formost, IT WILL PASS. Second: Both Songbob Clayton and Norton1 are right in telling you to "EXCERSIZE". It is important to excercize at least four times per week rigerously. Not only does this give your mind a little time out, but it also releases endorphins which will in tern give you a feeling of well being. Lastly, meds, counseling, prayer, meditation and one day at a time. You will be in my prayers, rd. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: alanabit Date: 12 Jan 02 - 01:50 PM Should mention that I agree with the coments about exercise too. It's a good tool for fighting that dangerous inertia of not caring about yourself. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: kendall Date: 12 Jan 02 - 03:06 PM It doesn't always pass. I've been without a voice for almost two months, and it is really getting me down. Of all things for a singer/speaker to lose! My voice defines who I am without it, what am I? Who am I? |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Mudlark Date: 12 Jan 02 - 03:31 PM To Guest: I agree that exercise, dragging yourself out of the chair and doing something, anything, is good medicine. Dogs are a great help in this...if you don't have one maybe you could borrow a friend's who need exercising... Also, resist the urge to isolate. Sometimes just talking to someone on the phone can be refreshing. Reach out, as you have done here, in all directions.
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: wysiwyg Date: 12 Jan 02 - 04:12 PM There is good information with links to more, that I think you will find applicable, here: And another thread on depression here: You do need to be a member there (and Mudcat member) to post there, and then you also can get private messgaes in both areas from people who may not be comfortable posting in the threads. Also I highly recommend the resources described here: ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Bonnie Shaljean Date: 12 Jan 02 - 04:31 PM Try if you can to get ahold of a copy of "The Noonday Demon" by Andrew Solomon. It's wise, compassionate, pragmatic - and very readable. He doesn't offer easy solutions because of course there aren't any. But it may serve as a sort of map, from one who's been there. And he supports the advice of many of the Mudcatters here, who sound pretty wise and compassionate themselves. In particular (I can't speak from personal experience on this one, but I hear it time and time again): However much you dislike being on medication, don't abandon it! Finally, remember what E.L. Doctorrow said: "It's like driving at night - you can only see as far as the beam of the headlights. But that will get you there." |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: M.Ted Date: 12 Jan 02 - 04:59 PM Try to keep the things you do as simple as possible, so you don't get bogged down --and try to eat real, hot meals instead of snacks and chocolates--excersise is a big help--no need for a gym membership, just a regular walk or bike ride-- |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,rd Date: 12 Jan 02 - 06:00 PM You guys are brilliant, much thanks to each of you. You're right about keeping on keeping on, not trying to do EVERYTHING - but set small acheivable tasks to keep up the momentum -chipping away. The Salami technique - the whole thing is impossible but one slice at a time is a breeze. Definitely no Richard Thompson ! Having been off anti-depressants a year I'm hoping I'll get through this patch, but it's useful to know there's a fall back position ! I wanted to (gradually) came off them as I don't like taking any meds, they had some side-effects but also I was wary of the attitude of employers, post-Allitt, though personally I see them like vitamins - if you're low on iron/Vitamin C etc - you need a booster. I don't know if it was the experience of others of who took them - but I was getting "you're looking better" comments from people who didn't know about the meds both when I started and when I finished. Sadly, good advice about friends who are down. A friend (didn't mentioned above) is also very down - but I know he has other supports. At the moment I don't believe I could cope with him - risking hurting both of us. I'm new to this area, so mostly new friends, who have been great at talking about individual issues ( including almost the end of a relationship), but I'm wary of burdening them with the whole shebang'. I shall definitely try out the links soon ! Thank heavens (& Max the others) there's a back door into the cat. I shall keep this to hand for 'down times', which are inevitable, but not definitely the beginning of the end. I like the idea of trying something new - no expectations of trying to be 'good/better at ....'. Perhaps go to concerts/gigs more than sessions give myself a short rest from performing, although it's great to do a song - it's still pressure & trying to meet the expectations of others. 'Nuff wittering, Thanks again to everybody, & especially good luck to those of you who have experienced depression. Bon chance rd |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: 53 Date: 12 Jan 02 - 10:33 PM a lot of people are suffering from problems such as this, myself included, and i feel for you cause i just can't seem to get mine under control, but depression is not my main problem, but being manic is. i can go from here to here in a matter of seconds, and you never know when its going to start. BOB |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: wysiwyg Date: 13 Jan 02 - 12:12 AM Check that cortisol level Bob. It's bound to be involved. I think your pore lil adrenals may be shot to hell. I gave Glenda the information about it. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,rd Date: 13 Jan 02 - 03:55 AM Hi Bob, Sometimes I think the feeling you're not in control of you're own emotions is one of the worse aspects. How do you try to tackle mania ??? Use the energy ???? |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Hrothgar Date: 13 Jan 02 - 05:21 AM Even if everything you are doing seems to be too much, keep doing at least some of it. As lots of people have said, exercise - if nothing else, it will make you tired enough to sleep properly. Probably you should go back on the medication, no matter how little you like it (chocolate might count as medication, but a balanced diet around it is necessary, too)! Last but not least - you've learned to play more instruments. I've never learned to play any, so you are doing better tham some! |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Liz the Squeak Date: 13 Jan 02 - 06:12 AM You have energy? Wanna come clean my house? I need help decorating the bedroom, and I've got all the energy of a cataleptic sloth! You get manic phases? I get the opposite. I want to hibernate, and yes, I have been getting plenty of light. It's a result of working every day except bank holidays and weekends over Christmas.... I got to a point where I felt physcially sick at work! I started to do other tasks and it's been getting better, but I still want to just soak in a hot tub and stay there till May. I notice my PMT/S is worse when I'm depressed, which really helps NOT! Evening Primrose oil didn't even touch it this time! Anyone any tips?? - oh, and there's this stiff neck I've had for a week now.... Seriously, rather than take up a new hobby, look back over something you might have started ages ago and done nothing with for a while... it's as good as starting an new one, and chances are, you won't have to spend out on much! If you have a manic phase, try something physical, like a long bike ride, polish the car, vacuum the stairs, dust the pictures, dig the garden, or make pasta or bread. Beating the crap out of a lump of dough and then getting to eat it afterwards (if it's in a fit state)makes it sort of worthwhile. LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: wysiwyg Date: 13 Jan 02 - 09:20 AM LTS-- see the link I gave above to an Annexe thread. Cortisol, cortisol, cortisol... needs B5 and a few other items. ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Wyrd Sister Date: 13 Jan 02 - 10:13 AM I can't really add more, but agree with what others have said. You've recognised it's depression. Good, you can stop the negative voices that tell you it's just you being useless. Try to keep regular hours. Treat yourself to a well-balanced meal-that can link in with make yourself do something, anything, and remember just moving is exercise if you can't manage anything more energetic yet. If medication is what it takes, so be it. I understand people not wanting to be reliant on pills to feel "normal", but few of those same people would recommend e.g. diabetics should learn to be normal without insulin. And remember there are a lot more of us than we think! Good luck. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,TNDARLN Date: 13 Jan 02 - 01:03 PM Amen to the insulin comparison! Every time I've thought "I can do fine w/o the meds" I've been shown how dumb an idea [for me] that is! I'm thankful for the meds- life is too precious to sleep away or numb away. And if you, like I used to, have friends who say "depression is not real" or "if you wanted to, you could get off those meds" or [here's the biggy] "if you'd just trust God more", etc., GET NEW FRIENDS!!! There's so much ignorance out there! [I trust God to give me wisdom to take the meds!] And turn off the TV! If you weren't already depressed, watching it would make you so. T |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,TNDARLN Date: 13 Jan 02 - 01:06 PM And I meant to add, I hope you overcome this episode soon, RD. And could someone tell me why I'm showing up as a guest all of a sudden? And also, what happened to the thread trace feature? Did I sleep through something? T |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Noreen Date: 13 Jan 02 - 01:30 PM Reset your cookie, TNDARLN- see under 'Quick Links' at the top of this page. And rd- hope you find somethibg that works. Noreen |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Stilly River Sage Date: 13 Jan 02 - 01:57 PM RD--you've tapped into a great supportive group here. Such good advice from people who have exerienced what you're going through. I had a problem with losing weight during serious depression (prior to filing for divorce). I was skin and bones when I finally "saw" myself in the mirror and realized I had to do something. Exercise did help increase my appetite, and I made sure I ate several small meals during the day. I was probably getting too much sleep, and it all felt like it was fetal position. I found that making a list of things I needed to do each day, and crossing them off as they were finished was a help. But this only works if your list is realistic and if you include the daily maintenance stuff. Dishes, cooking, laundry, tidying your bedroom, cleaning the cat box. Because just getting through the day is demonstrated when you see on paper all that you really do. Add some task you've wanted to accomplish--paying bills is a good one, or perhaps (and I find very soothing) writing a letter to a friend. A pen and paper kind of letter, with a stamp on it. My cat has always been good company, and I would hazard a guess that over the years the simple act of taking care of something else that is dependent on me has made a difference. Now that I have children, when I feel depression coming on, I make a point of doing things with them, and being sure that we follow our regular comfort rituals (foods we particularly like at meals, reading a good book at bedtime). I resisted medications for my depression, because I knew the source of my feelings (divorce) and felt that my brain was trying to tell me to sort it out. As I went through that natural period of adjustment I didn't want to "defer" the process. I was able to get by without medcations, but not everyone can. Take advantage of the resources available. Work out a plan for the future--this helped me most of all--knowing what I wanted to do with myself in the future (I went back to school for my master's, to start with). And it is true--having a good friend to talk to is as good as going into therapy. Maggie
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: smallpiper Date: 13 Jan 02 - 03:48 PM Wow what a supportive lot! Lots of sound advice and I'm sad to say a lot of people who are or have suffered from this terrible condition. Anyone can PM me if they need to talk - I am a counsellor and am happy for people to contact me should they need an ear. No charge! Be well! John |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 13 Jan 02 - 06:22 PM Just a couple of thoughts... for folks of the Christian persuasion, there may be a church in your area that does Christian counseling. I found much of value in a brief stint with traditional psychotherapy but there were times when I wasn't on the same page because of a conflict with my faith. I went to a Christian Counselor... a trained Psychologist who did counselling as a volunteer. I ended up getting some help there that I don't think I could have found through another psychiatrist. I imagine that the Jewish community probably has similar faith-based counseling. There was also a time when I find group therapy very helpful. People in the group were very supportive, but also wouldn't listen to any crap and would tend to come at you when you were b.s.ing, as we're all adept at doing. Sometimes, that was very helpful. Sometimes you need to have someone call you on something that is a rationalization or evasion of the true reason for your action. But hey, EVERY case is different. In the long run, you have to find out through some trial and error, what works. Jerry |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,Desdemona Date: 13 Jan 02 - 06:35 PM Guest, I've suffered from depression as well (the past 3 years have been hideous on a number of levels), and I must say that the advice above re:getting SOMETHING done every day, be it ever so seemingly minor or ordinary, is absolutely key. I like the salami analogy; I always think of it as a huge pie...if you look at the whole thing in its entirety you become overwhelmed, but if you just small, manageable slices, it starts to get smaller, bit by bit. This is a rough time of year; the holidays leave us exhausted, financially strapped, and looking down the barrel of several more months of winter. The advice about starting something new that engages you is excellent: get your mind & energy focussed on something that doesn't have any past associations or baggage. Also make sure to take good physical care of yourself---eat nourishing food at the appropriate times, take that walk even if you don't think you feel like it, turn off the negative "tapes" when they start playing themselves, push yourself out the door to do an errand, CALL A FRIEND (so often I felt I was boring, or a nuisance, when in fact my friends wanted to be there for me if I'd only give them the chance)! You should certainly ring your doctor; maybe you need to resume your meds for awhile, maybe not, but I'm sure there are ways for you to pull out of the slump you feel approaching. Look after yourself, don't spend too much time on your own & DO let us know how you're feeling! D. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: 53 Date: 13 Jan 02 - 09:01 PM rd, I am Glenda, The other part of '53'. Bob is my husband and we both know how to sympathize with anyone suffering depression or bipolar problems. I have been on meds for over 10 years, balanced now for about 5. I have been thru divorce as has Bob and we are both happy to now have someone who is understanding. Although I havew been coming to the 'Cat for a while and have found a good community here, I am amazed at the support I see here from Mudcatters for you, for a Guest suffering. I don't mean that I didn't expect it was possible, but it IS touching to see the many who share their stories openly. We are available also through PMs if you decide to be a Member and want to 'talk'. Hang in there. The advice here is GREAT. Thanks to all on behalf of rd, Bob and me. - Glenda |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Bo Vandenberg Date: 13 Jan 02 - 09:21 PM This can be a rotten time of year for everyone especially in northern hemisphere. I have to say value, and find encouraging, all the above advice. I don't believe enough people have mentioned wide spectrum light, either get out to be in the sun when its out or find yourself a SAD light. Its non invasive and they make a great work light. Also realize that you have an important task that others don't think about or don't need to do. YOU have to take fight depression. This is not something like finding a parking spot or cleaning up the kitchen (although on a given day those achievements might be a source of joy) this is about lasting through the dark time with too little sun. It takes time and it is a war with many battles. Promise very little and over achieve if possible rather than commit and dissapoint. Dissapointing people you love is really deadly when you are already depressed. What Alanabit said about meeting your problems, and the people who steward them is very true. I know how tempting it is to hide from something you cant face but sometimes seeking the other people related to a fear isnt so much about the feared thing as the allies you can gain. I find I feel much more capable at this time of year when I'm taking care of someone else. Try and find gracious thankful people to share tasks with. Their thankfulness will really help your sense of self. The more they care about your wellbeing the better. Lastly let me appeal to your logic (this is what I try and remember for myself). If your problem is motivation you have to try NEW things and REVISIT things that WORKED before. You have to do at least 2 things each day: 1. Help Yourself No matter if you didnt help yourself yesterday or before. You have a personal value that deserves investment. If you saw a $1000 lying in a hole would you pick it up? YOU personally are worth far more than a $1000. Pick yourself up everyday! 2. Succeed at something. Do something to recognise your own value. Sigurd |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: M.Ted Date: 13 Jan 02 - 11:00 PM Bread and TV both have been mentioned--Making bread, for some reason, makes you feel really good(even if you don't use it as a punching bag) and commercial television can make you feel really bad-- Uncut movies, theatre, and concerts on public television or cable can actually be therapeutic, but the commercial stuff (especially CNN and that sort of thing) is like a binge on Little Debbie cakes, Barbeque Pringles, Pop Tarts, and circus peanuts-- |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Stilly River Sage Date: 13 Jan 02 - 11:28 PM There is a cable channel that plays romantic movies in a series called "Cinematherapy." (I don't generally care for them, but the idea is what's important here). My tolerance for sad songs and sad movies is non-existent during times of depression, but this said, there are some films that work very well for me. And programs. I don't often watch commercial television (and I agree, avoid CNN like the plague!), but I find if I look for reruns of Frasier or The Golden Girls I'll be in stitches and it feels so good! Perhaps you have something that works in a similar way for you. The amount of light in the room is something I pay attention to, I just forgot to mention. There is a small worklight that can be found in the US, I don't know about elsewhere, called the "Ott-Lite" that is excellent to fend of SAD and other depression. I'll set it above my desk or table where I'm working and tip the top of it up high enough that I'm getting the bright daylight-colored light across my forehead and onto the surface where I'm working. It's inexpensive compared to some of the fancy systems, but seems to work. About $30 to $40 here. Maggie |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: M.Ted Date: 14 Jan 02 - 12:56 AM Turner Movie Classics is often good for a musical comedy in the morning, and generally on Sunday afternoon as well--If you're not home, video tape is cheap. Also, The Simpsons are generally better than a therapy session--I have some six hour tapes, good for even the most serious personal crises-- |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: paddymac Date: 14 Jan 02 - 01:32 AM I think it's the rare person that never encounters some form of depression. There's even an entire genre of music dedicated to the problem - the blues. The lucky ones are those who are sentient enough to recognize the creeping onset. Causation, intensity, and curative/restorative mechanisms cover a wide spectrum. If you're lucky enough to know what's happening, but don't think you're making enough progress on your own, by all means look for a professional of some sort, and keep looking until you find one that actually brings you some benefit. My favorite cure for the blues is to (1) be sure that I force myself to get out and socialize, even if it only means going to my local for a pint and some chat; and 2) start to learn a new song or tune. The focus and concentration required to learn a new tune is just a way to get the mind off feeling sorry for yourself. Plus, there are lots of little "accomplishments" in the process, like mastering something as small as a phrase or pattern in the tune. And then there's always the lyrics. As everybody already knows from this thread, "everybody gets the blues" sometime. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Bagpuss Date: 14 Jan 02 - 09:30 AM First of all remember that just because you are getting the early symptoms of depression, it doesn't mean a slide into full depression. I'm still on medication, and just before christmas I started getting symptoms again and I was absolutely convinced that I would go all the way back down again. But I didn't - I managed to fight it off this time. I agree that you should look into the possibility of SAD, since a tendency to want to sleep and overeat (especially carbohydrates) are a couple of things that can differentiate it from other types of depression - as well as occurring in the winter months. Did previous depressive periods begin in autumn/winter and tend to resolve in the springtime? It took me until my 4th episode of winter depression to realise that I had SAD. I now use a light box and St John's Wort in the winter, but I still have to go back on anti depressants sometimes. The lightbox in a godsend to me - and you can buy them with a full refund if you send it back within 21 days because it doesn't work for you. So you won't be taking such a risk with your money. Lightboxes also work more quickly than antidepressants. I usually respond within 5 days. Other tips: keep talking (to us if you don't feel comfortable talking to others). Try to get out in the fresh air and exercise even when you feel too lethargic and unmotivated. But DON'T beat yourself up over not doing things you think you are supposed to be doing. Bagpuss |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: 53 Date: 14 Jan 02 - 09:42 AM it's hit me this morning, not depression but a attack of rage and feeling violent, like i want to run my car into something or hurt myself really bad. i know what brought it on but it would be to long to talk about it, but this thread is a good place to put what i have had happen this morning. maybe i'll get thru it maybe not. |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 14 Jan 02 - 12:12 PM 53: Make sure you talk about it with someone... don't let it slide or think that it will go away... Jerry |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: GUEST,rd Date: 14 Jan 02 - 04:07 PM Hi 53 Bob ??? How are you doing ??? Fingers crossed for you. Much thanks to everyone for your time/thoughts & advice, it is appreciated (& listened to). rd |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Hilary Date: 14 Jan 02 - 04:40 PM Hello Kendall, In the past I've defined myself by my job, & now feel that was a mistake. I'm aiming for a better balance nowadays. I expect you know far more about this than I do, but is there any chance your lost voice is down to winter colds & throat infections ??? IF it is, steamy baths, time & the advice of your local pharmacist may just help. . The first time I lost my voice I was 8 and due to play the Angel Gabriel that afternoon in the school Nativity play. Good luck . H |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Liz the Squeak Date: 14 Jan 02 - 05:41 PM Hey Bob, were you in my office, because that's just how I felt, when I found someone had messed up the carefully stacked piles I had left on Friday....? An excercise bike seems to be helping, at least it's mindless enough that I can check out other stuff at the same time.... (can't post though, the keyboard cable isn't long enough, but I'll find a way......) LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: SharonA Date: 14 Jan 02 - 05:53 PM rd: There's lots of wonderful advice here! Let me add this thought: You may want to consider talking to your medical doctor not only for the reasons stated above, but also to make sure that your symptoms don't have a physical cause that you're not presently aware of. The sort of extreme lethargy you describe might be caused by any number of serious physical problems, including hypothyroidism, multiple schlerosis, lupus, heart disease, dare I say cancer... and more. I have a couple of autoimmune diseases (lupus and sarcoidosis), and lethargy and depression are part of my everyday life. I once had a therapist who talked me into trying Paxil as a treatment, but it made me so tired and irritable that I couldn't function (driving a car was scary!!) so I finally dropped the Paxil and the therapist. For me, the pain-control meds and inhalers, plus Buspar, have done the trick. But I can tell you from over twenty years of experience that, with any problem that requires long-term medication, it is of the utmost importance that your condition be monitored and your medications adjusted and/or changed as necessary. This means working closely with your medical professionals, getting tested on a regular basis (blood work, X-rays, MRI's or whatever) and discussing alternatives to any pharmaceuticals that are not working for you. If you don't want to be on an anti-depressant, ask your doctor for treatment alternatives. If you feel that he or she isn't willing to explore those alternatives with you, look for another doctor who is. A word of caution about the suggestion made above to seek religious counseling: be very sure, before you go into that counseling, that the counselor's belief system doesn't include the sort of dogma that will be more harmful than helpful to you. For instance, I stay far, far away from anyone from a church that preaches that God punishes sinners by striking them down with physical diseases! As the song says, "We all need somebody to lean on" so don't hesitate to lean on the professionals whose job it is to keep you well and on an even keel, as well as on your friends in the 3D world and your supporters at Mudcat! We're pullin' for ya! Sharon |
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Subject: RE: BS: sliding into a depression From: Steve in Idaho Date: 14 Jan 02 - 06:13 PM Kendall --- You can define yourself as my friend. And to others I am sure. Miz Liz - Have you never thought of an extension cord and duct tape?? Man it's the answer to everything!! Longer cord for the keyboard and duct tape the dang thing in place!!! Steve |