Support circle for depression

BW · Post by BW » Wed Jul 30, 2008 8:41 am

I also find exercise is very important to help me keep on an even keel. I started the program mainly because of depression, although I do get very anxious about public speaking. I like to walk, too, but it's so hot here in SC that sometimes it's not a good option. I do my ab lounge and swimming. I had a lot of things pile on at once that got me into depression, and I would have a few good days and think I was coming out of it, and then something would happen that would send me right back into it. Throught the program (I'm on session4) I'm seeing how much of a negative thinker I am and how much that's contributing to my depression. I always knew my perfectionism was a problem, and trying to please everyone. Now I'm seeing that it isn't so much what happens in my life that makes me feel depressed, it's what happens in my head - thinking negative, pessimistic, gloomy thoughts. When I'm already feeling good, I can stop myself now that I'm aware of it, but when you're in the throes of it, it feels so awful, like you'll never feel better, and everything feels like a colossal effort. But making the effort to exercise or attack something you've been putting off can let a little sunlight into the dark place where you are.

damagedsoul · Post by **damagedsoul** » Wed Jul 30, 2008 8:52 am

thank you. I belong to a gym and used to do the cycling class three times a week. I haven't fel the 'umph' to get back into it, even though I'm in a contract and stil paying. I am walking though, and I agree that exercise is needed not only mentally, but definitely physically and for our future health.

Mariasue · Post by **Mariasue** » Wed Jul 30, 2008 8:11 pm

Damaged Soul......or let me put it another way....Repairable soul

Something I found helped me with my depression etc. My mother has a picture on her living wall of Mom,my older brother and myself were on the ship traveling from Italy to Canada in the 50's. In this picture I was this cute little munchkin of the age of 2 1/2 years of age standing on a chair. I had such a sad pouting look on my face. I feel such compassion for that little girl.

Whenever I feel down I bring up that little girl in my mind's eye and picture myself putting my arms around that her and telling her "If you love me a little.....I'll love you a little too." It is amazing the feeling I get inside..... and then the tears roll down my face and my soul feels less burdened and comforted.

Take a look at a picture of you as a child and love yourself and be good to yourself.

Keep up with the program. I have been depressed in one way or another throughout my life and now in my late 50's I have finally found a program I truly believe in because it hels us to help ourselves and also provides guidance when we need it.

Hang on ....believe in yourself.....believe that you are special and are loved.

Maria Sue

damagedsoul · Post by **damagedsoul** » Thu Jul 31, 2008 4:33 am

Hi there. Thanks...
It's funny you say that cause in my bathroom I have an area that is like an open closet where I have shelves and keep my towels. It's right across from the toilet. Sounds strange, but I put a big picture up there of my mom when she was around 35 that was charcoal painted and on the other wall there is a picture of us, her three daughters when we were younger. I also have a pic there of her and I at an occasion with my arms around her. I have a little talk with her everytime I'm in there.... so, we may be thinking the same way..
I am strong, I do realize that and I have prevailed. Not in such a good mood these days, but it's no one's fault, especially my own.
Thanks for caring.
Good luck with getting your life on track to becoming happy again too...
peace

Mariasue · Post by **Mariasue** » Thu Jul 31, 2008 12:58 pm

Hi,
We are actually all very strong .....look at how we survive each day. Thanks for the note.

Maria

joy jenkins · Post by **joy jenkins** » Fri Aug 01, 2008 5:56 pm

I would love to become a member of the Support circle for depression. I do suffer with anxiety as well and have been taking tranquilizers for many years so they seem to keep it in check to a degree. However, I have tried so many different anti-depressents and nothing has seemed to work for me so right now I am not on any meds for depression.I find the mornings the most difficult and have trouble getting out of bed, it takes a few hours before I start to feel a little better. Try to get out but it is such a huge effort just to get dressed and ready to go out. Once I do it, I am usually glad I pushed myself out of the door! I am an older lady, now retired and living alone in a small apt.so it gets very lonely. I worked all my life and that seemed to help a lot. Now it is so hard with so many hours to fill in each day. Is there anyone out there in a similar situation?

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Aug 01, 2008 6:15 pm

Hi Joy:
I am an older person. I live alone too.
I've lived alone for about 23 1/2 years.

I don't get too lonely anymore. Maybe a little.
But I visit this forum a lot.

I got the program in Jan. of 07. It has helped me in many ways.

I stay home a lot. But I'm okay with that now.
I can't tell you how it happens that you get comfortable with yourself. It just happens.

I've been thru' some dark and acute depression.
But Some of the stress I was under lifted somewhat. I had anxiety when I ordered the program. I was having trouble driving. I was having trouble shopping also. When I'd get to the store I felt like I would pass out.

But I don't seem to have that anymore now. I drive where I need to go. I don't drive far because my vision is not as good as I'd like it to be.

I hope you get to feeling better.
You will find the folk who participate here are very helpful and caring.
Best of luck.
Mary Jane
P.S. I am 79 1/2 years

pecos · Post by **pecos** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 2:59 am

Hi Joy, you are so much a part of the Support Circle for Depression just because you are here! I certainly understand loneliness. I've been divorced for years, and what's left of my current relationship is more lonely than if I were alone! This program has helped me start working myself out of the darkest saddest place. I am very happy to say I am no longer a dweller in that place of depression, just a temporary visitor. I've received some good support here, and have tried to offer the best support I can give, too. You are among friends here. Kindest regards, Pecos.

joy jenkins · Post by **joy jenkins** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 3:45 am

Hi Pecos, Thanks so much for your response to my message. It was lovely to receive it and feel you are really not alone. I am finding I am having horrible nightmares/dreams every night for the past while. I never seem to get a peaceful night's rest. I wonder if anyone else experiences this. I am wondering if this is stress, I am also getting terrible tummy aches and diarreah, is this also stress? I don't know, so I guess I not onlysuffer with major depression but also anxiety. I have now been out of bed for a couple of hours, have had a cup of tea and a tranquilizer and am just starting to feel a little better after a night of horrible dreams. Also, the depression has started to lift a little. Please keep in touch.
Joy

SCDon · Post by **SCDon** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 6:11 am

Welcome to the group Joy. You are definitely not alone. This is a great place for us to share and recieve encouragement and hope. I believe that your sleep and bowel problems most likely stem from stress. I have both lately. Bring unemployed is my big external stressor right now.
This program and this site are helping me fight the depression and anxiety better than ever.
I realize that I am in a new phase in my life and adjusting can be a big stressor also. i turned 50 last summer. Still "young", but starting to feel the aches and pains. I have it easy I know, but it still goes back to expectations, shoulds, hopes and dreams.
There are many good topics in these forums. Please ask any question and offer any insights. Hang in there and God bless you.