D E P R E S S I O N . . .[ S E R I E S ]
Depression from:
altered-states.net
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http://altered-states.net/barry/newsletter155/index.htm
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SEE ALSO . . .
[From Psych Central]
Learn more about depression...
Come back and post your comments!
Blessings ~
René ~ "Always Collaborating and Creating!"
- Take our free, quick Depression Quiz
- Learn more about the General Symptoms of Depression
or the Specific Symptoms of a Depressive Episode - Discover the Treatment Options available
- Find out about other depression Online Resources
- Join our very own depression Support Group
- Read the latest News & Research on Depression
- Edit or contribute to the Psych Central Wiki entry on Depression
- Back to the Depression Introduction
Come back and post your comments!
Blessings ~
René ~ "Always Collaborating and Creating!"
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Comments: 156
Thanks so much for the information Rene. There's always something new to learn!
I think I'll take the TEST too Nina and see what my score is. This should be interesting.
I'll also add info in here about the "vegas stimulator" . . . if you'd like to say more about it Nina, please do. I can understand not wanting any more surgeries Nina. I agree with you. Alternative Methods work better in my opinion.
Thanks Everyone for viewing the LINKS. I thought they were very helpful and interesting.
Blessings ~
Rene
I'm bringing this one back to the Front Page of Artistic Therapy . . . Everyone will find it in the FEATURED ARTICLES section of our Gather Group.
I hope those who check the LINKS will comment on what they think of them.
Thanks for adding your input Jen!
Let us know what you think of the LINKS. I'm going to go take a look at them again too!
HUGS ~
Rene
Jen ~ I'm going to pay particular attention to the Questions you mentioned . . . "sleep question, fatigue and the weight question".
I'll report back after I take it again!
You have answered this self-report questionnaire in such a way as to suggest that you do not likely currently suffer from a depressive disorder. You should not take this as a diagnosis or recommendation for treatment in any way, though. You experience the normal ups and downs of life.
Hugs and blessings - S.
The only depression I ever felt was postpartum and that was pretty devastating but also very short term. I scored a one on the quiz. I do get fatigued but blame that on some meds I need to take.
Interesting article and links. Thanks.
So, I don't really take much stock in it.
The concentrating on reading question I answered I think sometimes, which is true because it's sometimes hard to quiet the mind when there's a billion things running through it... from housework that has to be done to novel ideas. LOL
The wording and the bracket is the same as the 17 one, though.
"You appear to be experiencing some depressive symptoms which are often common amongst the general population. It is unclear as to whether you suffer these problems severely enough to need to seek further diagnosis and treatment of them. You should not take your responses to this self-report questionnaire as a diagnosis or recommendation for treatment of any sort. Consult with a trained mental health professional if you are experiencing depressive feelings and/or difficulties in your daily functioning that you are worried about."
10 - 17 Possible mild depression
Now I'm curious as to what I'll get this time!
Thanks for taking the TEST Svetlana and sharing the RESULTS.
"I know many people who are depressed and I cannot even imagine what that is like. I call that is a blessing. I have no idea if its the way I'm wired or if its the way my mind works.
The only depression I ever felt was postpartum and that was pretty devastating but also very short term. I scored a one on the quiz. I do get fatigued but blame that on some meds I need to take.
Interesting article and links. Thanks." ~ Digital Diva S.
You received a pretty good score DD. We are discussing DEPRESSION in our Artistic Therapy Gather Group, and postpartum depression is one of the types of depression that is being discussed.
You may be right about "being wired differently" -- the way we "think" oftentimes effects our moods dramatically. Maybe you have more "happy thoughts" and "positive thoughts" more consistently than others do. Your outlook on life could be very positive, and that is the reason why you do not suffer from depression. Being surrounded by and experiencing a lot of LOVE also keeps depressive moods and thoughts at bay.
Thank you so much for responding to this Discussion. I hope you will come back and give us some tips on how to steer clear of depression.
Then, again, the symptoms we call depression can result from a variety, often a confluence, of causes.
"It's sometimes hard to quiet the mind when there's a billion things running through it..." ~ Jennifer N.
So true Jen, so true.
I really have got to take the TEST, I've been so busy responding to our other DEPRESSION DISCUSSION going on in Artistic Therapy . . .
A "17" now? You may need to take it again in a few days and SEE what the score is. Maybe you've just been under pressure ~ ya know. Mild Depression is fleeting. It does happen though. We may not even realize it. It is easy to become mildly depressed when we get behind on things, have a zillion things to do each day and never seem to catch up, and spend most of our sleep time trying to do just that -- if not with eyes wide open, with eyes wide shut ~ ahahah . . . I'm so SERIOUS you know.
Will be back with my results after I finally get over there to take the TEST again!
HUGS Jen ~ This too will pass ~ {smiles}.
"Like most of these quicky pop psych tests, on this one the questions can be ambiguous, too broad, or too ill-defined. For many of the "symptoms" there are quite a few obvious alternative diagnoses/causes.
Then, again, the symptoms we call depression can result from a variety, often a confluence, of causes." ~ Libramoon
Libramoon ~ Did you take the TEST? If so, what was your SCORE?
What you've said at the end of your comments is definitely TRUE. Depression is not always easily defined. Many times, a person does not have an immediate clue as to why they are even depressed ~ or know that they are even depressed. Some people perpetually live in a state of depression, and believe it is NORMAL.
Operating from day to day in a lethargic and/or mellon~collie mood is not what one would call joyous and/or full~of~LIFE living.
But back to you and the TEST Libramoon . . . just indulge us, and let us know what you get on it.
Your Friend,
Rene
I was told in 1980 that I would always need the medicine, there was an imbalance in the chemicals in my brain. It was explained it was like a diabetic needing insulin. I didn't want to believe it, but I tried other things other than prescriptive medicine and it just didn't work.
It is still a struggle even with the medicine sometimes, but all I can do is my best.
My heart goes out to everyone who struggles with depression. It is not an easy thing to live with and even harder when people don't understand it.
I took the test again the other day and got an 11. Same range as the 17. Some of them are not terribly fair, though IMO. Like the "I do things slowly"
Well, yes I do. I can't clean an entire house in a day, so I take a few days on one room and do it slowly. LOL
can't you just be happy?
can't you just be happy?"
It's not about just or being or happy or even depression. It is kind of about obsession with diagnoses and medications and therapies and turning what could have been a life into a disease.
"But Rene, I've already been diagnosed and have been working all these years to reframe. However, if it helps, I got a 66." ~ Libramoon
Yes ~ It does help -- mainly because I'm trying to get a feel for the Scores, and what everyone thinks about the TEST (QUIZ). Thanks for responding -- "66"? -- ... Let me get over there! I didn't know that there was such a range . . .
I'm going to respond to the other comments, get over there to the TEST (QUIZ), and get back here tomorrow with some more feedback.
Your reframing has definitely helped many people I am sure, because your thought processes definitely make me think on what you are delivering in your messages in a GOOD WAY. I'm going back to the discussion you have on your musings on depression. I want to continue reading it. I found your Article VERY INTERESTING.
Going UP! . . .
"I take trazadone and celexa. I am better off on medication than off. I used to hate how my medicine made me feel years ago and would go on and off of it, only to wind up deep down a well.
I was told in 1980 that I would always need the medicine, there was an imbalance in the chemicals in my brain. It was explained it was like a diabetic needing insulin. I didn't want to believe it, but I tried other things other than prescriptive medicine and it just didn't work.
It is still a struggle even with the medicine sometimes, but all I can do is my best.
My heart goes out to everyone who struggles with depression. It is not an easy thing to live with and even harder when people don't understand it." ~ Heather C.
Heather ~ The part of your comment that I put in [bold] is something of great significance. The question I have for you is ~ Did you get a second, third, and fourth opinion? Also, have you tried alternative methods ~ holistic ~ other forms of therapy?
And, what you said about UNDERSTANDING is vital....
One thing I would like to add in here, and I do expect comments on these thoughts from everyone who would be so kind as to give their thoughts and feedback. . .
I believe that what you BELIEVE becomes REAL for YOU.
I believe that SPIRITUAL WELL~BEING eliminates many struggles -- including depression
I believe that if you BELIEVE what someone says about you that is contrary to what you believe about yourself, then you are destined to to walk in shoes that are not of your own making.
I believe that what you FOCUS on magnetizes itself to you
Heather, I hope you come back to response further, and WE thank you for your honest heartfelt thoughts on this topic of discussion.
I agree with you about the cleaning -- and I have to say, that I like you, can relate to doing things slowly seems to be one of my traits -- not by choice -- and not necessarily by design either . . . it is the nature of being overwhelmed with "Things To Do" consistently and without slowing down on the intake. Not really a design I would fashion, but it is what it is--for the time that it is.
Great to hear your feedback -- especially about your characters and the inspiration they provide. I hope you share a scene with us . . .
please ~ smiles . . .
"what is your obsession with depression?
can't you just be happy?" ~ Sparrow Boy
Now those two lines will cause anyone to do a brain shift. I believe that people can be bi-depressed ~ meaning alternating between HAPPY and DEPRESSED...
Then the question becomes ~ which side are you on?
BALANCE ~ Where does that place a person? When you have BALANCE -- What kind of BALANCE is it? BALANCE between what?
Thanks for giving us FOOD for THOUGHT Sparrow Boy.
"what is your obsession with depression?
can't you just be happy?" ~ Sparrow Boy
"It's not about just or being or happy or even depression. It is kind of about obsession with diagnoses and medications and therapies and turning what could have been a life into a disease." ~ Libramoon
Libramoon ~ The KEY word in your statement being "disease" or "DIS~EASE".
WE can look at LIFE as a CHALLENGE to overcome ALL CHALLENGES -- including DEPRESSION. . . . or . . .
WE can look at any OBSTACLES that we may face and become UNCOMFORTABLE or ILL at EASE or DIS~EASED.
OR
DEPRESSED ~ Pressed down from the PRESSURES of LIFE.
Thanks for adding further thought~provoking input Libramoon. This I do agree with . . .
"It is kind of about obsession with diagnoses and medications and therapies and turning what could have been a life into a disease." ~ Libramoon
If anyone is determined and decides to be sick or dis~eased in any way, I do not think that they will find anyone who will stop them. Truly.
As you know (I think you know? LOL) Joy In Unexpected Places deals with a character that is friends with depression. Not by choice, or perhaps it is by choice, since depression is a constant friend that doesn't betray her. It's a litfic novel, so there's some gut wrenching scenes planned.
Right now not much is written in novel format. It's written as though you were sitting on the porch and this woman was relaying her story to you. It later will be written in a more novel-friendly format.
I'll see if I can't rewrite a scene or pull one of these rough ones out of my notes here. :-)
Have you seen my banners for the novel? Banner one. Banner Two.
I have some exercises here on Gather. I think the only one of real merit out of them is Dear Caroline
I also have two more relating to the aftermath of the accident.
The Aftermath Of The Accident - Viewing Valerie After The Accident.
The Aftermath Of A Drunk Driver
Hi Jen ~ I sure would like to hear one of the scenes from "Joy In Unexpected Places" . . . What an INVITING TITLE. Everyone would like to find JOY in unexpected places!
Dr. Rene' Allen
you'd like my muse
she's a psy' too
(by the way i'm super tired and am having issues typing)
it seems like if you have to take a test to see if you're depressed
you're looking for something
everyone experiences depression from time to time
it's a normal part of life
god knows i've had my spells
drink a pot of coffee and then straight back to bed
my thoughts
to find happiness
you must look inward
you can not and will not find it another person
maybe temorarily
but that's alway always ALWAYS fraught with disappoitment
not that you won't disappoint yourself if you try and fail
trying doesn't guarentee success
but it's no reason to give up
you need to set reasonable goals for yourself
build up to greater things
baby steps
and also
try and avoid your trigger points too
that's key
if you know
for example
a glass or two of wine makes you feel all fuzzy
stop there
especially if you know that when you've finished the second bottle
you'll be a blubbering mess
just an example
sad music
movies
people that make you feel bad and don't support you
but would rather fuck with you
you can't avoid all of it
but you can reduce it
you have control
use it
exercise it
and don't feel bad about it
you're all that matters
you can talk to me
if i've left you more confused
though you may want to wait til i'm rested
It's the people, the horrible, cruel, can't even see me dying here cause they're too busy having a joke on that dying useless crone. Oh, you know what I mean. So I do use it, turn it into an artistic rendering. I move myself into a different frame in which I only see them peripherally while front and center I see my beautiful, even sad, visions. That denial of "reality" is not insanity. It is finding a way to be sane.
According the test, I'm severely depressed. Which depresses me even more.
But, of course, I won't let a test bother me.
Only a professional could truly diagnose and treat me properly.
The whole idea of the story being about ~ "a character that is friends with depression--Not by choice, or perhaps it is by choice, since depression is a constant friend that doesn't betray her." ~ Jennifer N. . . .
This should definitely be a good NOVEL Jen! Maybe you can provide us with some EXCERPTS in your Group HOW WE WRITE. I know everyone will love that.
Going to the next box . . .
Well, I'd like to think it's different, but I know there's other novels (both fiction and non fiction) that grapple with these same or similar issues. Of course Valerie is different, as every one of us is different in some way.
With some luck it WILL be good. I'm still not sure if I'm going to do the fantasy in November for NaNo or this one. We'll see how developed the fantasy is by then.
I still need to work on excepts - either to dig one up or to write one in response to some excercise.
And, I'm going back to the EXERCISES that you did -- "dear Caroline" -- is the one I liked!
I'll check out the other two LINKS to see if I missed seeing them.
Thanks for what you've added here in this depression discussion. You can probably get a lot of feed~back on EXCERPTS from your NOVEL over in Artistic Therapy since WE are discussing DEPRESSION.
HUGS ~
Your Friend,
Rene
You've said some very interesting things, and you've brought up some good points. Take the following (for example) . . .
"it seems like if you have to take a test to see if you're depressed
you're looking for something
everyone experiences depression from time to time
it's a normal part of life
god knows i've had my spells
drink a pot of coffee and then straight back to bed"
~ Sparrow Boy
Sparrow Boy ~ I agree with you about "looking for something" if you take a TEST about depression -- I'm looking to SEE what I score ~ L O L. I want to know just what state I'm in. Even though I think I already know, I just think it will be interesting to SEE what I score on this TEST. So I'm revisiting it to take it again -- since I can't remember yesterday's event, let alone what I scored on the TEST the first time I took it ~ ahahah! Thinking back -- nope -- still can't remember .... smiles ....
Going to the next comment box to finish responding to your Sparrow Boy. . .
You're also right about these words that you've shared with us Sparrow Boy . . .
"...everyone experiences depression from time to time...it's a normal part of life"
So true. It is.
You've given us such GOOD ADVICE about "looking inward" to find "happiness", and advising us to be AWARE of the fact that WE will not find happiness in another person, because to put all of our hopes and dreams in another person is somewhat destined for disappointment {I'm re~phrasing your words a bit Sparrow Boy, but what you've said is true.}
You've also given us GOOD ADVICE about "trying" and "setting reasonable goals for ourselves".
Going to the next comment box Sparrow Boy to discuss TRIGGER POINTS that you've mentioned...
You've given us WISDOM, and I wholeheartedly agree with what you've shared with us . . .
"try and avoid your trigger points too
that's key
if you know
for example
a glass or two of wine makes you feel all fuzzy
stop there
especially if you know that when you've finished the second bottle
you'll be a blubbering mess
just an example
sad music
movies
people that make you feel bad and don't support you
but would rather ____ with you
you can't avoid all of it
but you can reduce it
you have control
use it
exercise it
and don't feel bad about it
you're all that matters"
~ Sparrow Boy
YES, YES, and YES to all of what you have said. There is nothing worse than knowing your LIMITS, but not taking heed to what those LIMITS are -- alcohol and drug use are two examples. ANGER MANAGEMENT is another.
The other trigger point that I'd like to bring up is ~ "feeling sorry for yourself . . . I'd like to ask all of the readers of this thread if they've ever met anyone who always is in the mood of "feeling sorry for their ~ self"? Sooner or later if this mood or behavior is consistent, it turns into WHINING, COMPLAINING, and becomes very NEGATIVE SPACE ~ The vibrations become heavy, dull, and sickening. Being around a person like this will become taxing, toxic, and eventually, (if you are wise), you will turn away, and turn your attention to something more progressive.
I'd like to also add that EVERYBODY does not necessarily want to be helped out of depression. Some people like being in the state they are in because it is familiar. The person has to want to be BETTER, feel BETTER, act BETTER, and BE BETTER....
Until the person wants to "change" their circumstances within, the "change" will not occur.
Once the depressed person decides to make a "CHANGE", then they will seek help, welcome help, and continue PROGRESS in the right direction accordingly.
As we've been discussing on the other DEPRESSION DISCUSSION in Artistic Therapy, there are many ways in which a person can receive HELP for a depression condition, and we have not exhausted all of those ways in our DISCUSSION.
Thank you so much for adding more here Sparrow Boy ~ As always, I welcome ALL of your INPUT -- it is very helpful.
HUGS ~
Rene
I'm bringing your thoughts down here . . .
"I love sad music, sad movies I can cry through and feel a real release in a fantasy.
It's the people, the horrible, cruel, can't even see me dying here cause they're too busy having a joke on that dying useless crone. Oh, you know what I mean. So I do use it, turn it into an artistic rendering. I move myself into a different frame in which I only see them peripherally while front and center I see my beautiful, even sad, visions. That denial of "reality" is not insanity. It is finding a way to be sane." ~ Libramoon
I've put EMPHASIS on your thoughts, because your words truly spoke to me Libramoon... especially the part about, "turning the polar opposite of JOY and all that it represents into an artistic rendering". When this is done, as you've suggested, then WE walk away with a sense of accomplishment ~ at least internally.
And, it is as you've said not denial of reality -- but a way to be SANE.
The FRONT and CENTER VISIONS are BEAUTIFUL and all their various aspects are what make them BEAUTIFUL.
OU ~ How I thank you for what you add to our discussions!
Your Friend,
Rene
You are such an INSPIRATION around Gather, and I do hope that you KNOW that...
HUGS ~
Your Friend,
Rene
P.S. ~ HURRY BACK! WE want to help you out.
there's actually a freudian term for it
"repitition compulsion"
the best example would be
ending up in abusive relationships time and time again
different people
same situation though
sure
it's painful
but it's familiar
and
you said
you turn away from those who try and drag you down with them
yes
misery does love company
and honestly
it's why i try to avoid this discussion
all it does is leave me feeling worse
(if i let it)
which i'm not
i may be speculating
but just wanted to say
just because you may feel lonely
doesn't mean you're alone
and
you don't need a professional
to tell you what you already know
you do though
need one to prescribe you meds
(if that's a direction you're thinking of taking)
and there's truely nothing wrong with it
those are there to help you
and it's ok to ask for help
you're only human
and just because we're perfect doesn't mean we don't need help from time to time
and asking for it doesn't make any less of one
if anything
it'll make you stronger
we are not invincible
and
it's our flaws which perfect us
but not asking for help isn't a flaw
it's a narcissistic state of mind
you're not above anything
(not that you're a narcissist-that would be me)
sort of
mostly i'm just being funny with my narcissism
anywho
uhhhh
anyway
i suggest at least exploring the option of meds
it'll take a while too
for them to take effect
be patient
and open your mind
Any time I feel very depressed, I usually play a song, something that makes me feel better.
Or I just look at one of my kids and they always bring a smile to my face.
Or I have many hobbies such reading, or even writing that keeps me sane..
I also have the internet, thankfully, it's like therapy to me.
It's because of some very great people here on Gather that I've made it through the tough times.
Any time I hear someone say they love one of my stories, It really cheers me up.
Even if they don't it doesn't bother me too much.
Every one is entitled to their opinion.
1. That I don't believe I can remember to take them every day.
(I had antibiotics when I had an infection in my tooth over a month ago. I remembered to take them for about a week and half before I kept forgetting. Luckily the infection did go away)
2. I just don't like taking any pills period. Just the thought of taking them worries me. Any time in the past when a pill had the side effects, such as drowsiness, I always got drowsiness every time.
3. First and foremost in order to get pills, I would have to go to a psychiatrist. Which isn't the problem here. The problem is (Will the insurance pay for it?)
We are flat broke and if the insurance don't pay...
Well, say bye bye to any pills that may or may not help me. Because then, I just couldn't afford them.
4. My hubby has been in and out the hospital, which in turn has triggered my depression lately. Because of worrying about his health plus bills, plus whatever else that may come.
5. And, of course there is my kids..
The possible side effects of some anti-depressants are (thoughts of suicide.) Now, that's scary to me. Because I think that I don't wish to get worse than I am now.
Oddly enough, I'm coping rather well without any pills. I've dealt with depression since high school and I'm so lucky to still be here today.
If it were not for my hubby and kids and great friends today, I honestly don't know if I would have made it through my life.
They are here and my hubby is a really great guy.
I thank the Lord every day he's in my life.
I think that number one, he keeps me happy and grateful.
And, I think that I'll be okay.
One interesting thing that you've interjected . . .
"honestly
it's why i try to avoid this discussion
all it does is leave me feeling worse
(if i let it)
which i'm not"
~Sparrow Boy
Sparrow Boy ~ I can understand what you are saying, but at the same time, the people participating in this DISCUSSION are not MUD DWELLERS. The people here are relaying their experiences ~ like yourself. If you read the comments, you will find HELPFUL and POSITIVE ADVICE, as well as INSIGHT into different frames of mind.
I'm glad that you won't let this conversation, or any other conversation that is not to your liking bring you down. It shouldn't. And, you are right . . . it only can if you let it ~ which I am sure that you won't.
The EXAMPLE that you have given us in relation to "repetition compulsion" . . .
"the best example would be
ending up in abusive relationships time and time again
different people
same situation though
sure
it's painful
but it's familiar"
~ Sparrow Boy
This EXAMPLE also brings to mind the issue of NOT LEARNING from past mistakes. And, not UNDERSTANDING that the root cause is what the person involved in these ABUSIVE SITUATIONS and RELATIONSHIPS thinks of their selves. [In essence ~ low self~esteem.]
If, for example, I am to experience ABUSE ~ REALIZING that it is not my fault, and KNOWING that I think more highly of myself that than, chances are, I would do something in response that the ABUSER would never forget. You know. I have NO PITY for ABUSERS -- they are what they are for whatever reason they are. There is no reason on God's green earth to let an ABUSIVE person step into your world and knock you down to the point where you don't get up and let them have it! ~ Just my thoughts (no one has to agree).
Going to the next comment box . . .
good points both of you! Having been in abusive relationships ... and making my way out and now having a GOOD genuine relationship with a GOOD man I totally agree with something you said in an earlier comment: WE MUST BELIEVE in ourselves! Self-esteem is crucial - if we don't value ourselves we will remain in a pattern of abuse...
I'm working on a memoir about my experiences with Asperger's and how hard it was to really understand life / socialization / communication and how to figure out that thing called LOVE and how to love myself. My working title is "DREAM, LAUGH, LIVE, LOVE"
"it's our flaws which perfect us" ~ Sparrow Boy
HOW TRUE. It is also our FLAWS that SHAPE US and MAKE US BETTER people. That is why I believe it is good to RECOGNIZE what those FLAWS are, and work on the BETTERMENT of BEING.
Always GOOD talking with you Sparrow Boy!
That is a great line sparrow boy ... when we learn from our mistakes & flaw we are made more perfect!
Angela ~ You are the second person participating in our DEPRESSION DISCUSSIONS that mentioned that the INTERNET was a good form of THERAPY. I agree. I love the conversation -- particularly here in Gatherland. There are some very INTERESTING people with much to say, teach, and show. If you're feeling down at any time, I guarantee that you can come on line, and find something to LAUGH ABOUT, SMILE ABOUT, and get INSPIRED ABOUT!
And, again, I must say, all of your writings are VERY UPBEAT and INSPIRATIONAL. Your ICON is even FULL of LIGHT. ~ L O L.
Your kids are so IMPORTANT to well~being. Kids are really such a JOY! You have to wonder at people who don't like kids. They are so interesting, funny, and they can teach you a lot when you LISTEN. Their messages always have a divine source.
Thanks for sharing the mention of HOBBIES too. HOBBIES are both THERAPEUTIC and INSPIRATIONAL.
Speaking of the INTERNET ~ BLOGGING is very THERAPEUTIC -- Has anyone here in the DISCUSSION tried it? Are you a BLOGGER Angela?
SUCH FUN!
I'm going to the next comment box . . .
I was depressed to the point of agoraphobia during a horrible work experience that eventually led to a discrimination lawsuit [part of the lessons learned in my memoir] and the internet was the only thing that kept me going... It can be so therapeutic!
That and my hobbies (painting, art, gardening, etc.) are what got me out of my major funk!! I actually spent almost three months in my bedroom and rarely came out...
blogging is good as is journaling
Great discussion Rene!
"3. First and foremost in order to get pills, I would have to go to a psychiatrist. Which isn't the problem here. The problem is (Will the insurance pay for it?). We are flat broke and if the insurance don't pay...
Well, say bye bye to any pills that may or may not help me. Because then, I just couldn't afford them." ~ Angela A.
This is another TOPIC of DISCUSSION -- INSURANCE . . . now I hope that Sparrow Boy won't slap me for bringing this up . . .
BUT... INSURANCE (or the lack thereof) is a reason WHY many people are depressed.
There are ways around the problem of a lack of insurance . . . Here would be a good place to list some of them:
1) WRITE TO OBAMA
2) FIND OUT WHO is in charge of this Country's HEALTH CARE SYSTEM.
3) Let's to an INTERNET SEARCH for INSURANCE ALTERNATIVES -- how about FREE INSURANCE!
4) Let's find other alternative ways for effective treatment that does not require INSURANCE.
5) Let's get busy going to some RETREATS that are offered for FREE because the RETREAT has been funded by a GRANT.
Let's just get our minds working on this issue!
Okay ~ Going to the next comment box . . .
I've been diagnosed with "Major Depressive Disorder - Chronic". On the other hand I only scored 30 on the test - what I'd like to know is the symptoms of sliding into a depression. Once I'm there, I have no inner resources to get me out, but if I can stop myself on the way down, that would be useful.
I recently quit taking antidepressants after 10 years. I'd like to know what is a normal response to quitting - and how to tell that from actually re-entering depression.
I agree with you Sarah - it is so important to have a good therapist. It is great to have family to talk to but when they are also trying to hold the family together it can be tough for them to bare so much burden!
I've been out of my bedroom (agoraphobia) now for six years now and successfully run and sold three businesses. I've written for healing, but it does bring up so much that it is important for me to still have my therapy! I only go once a month...
Do you really want to go to a psychiatrist?
versus
THERAPIST
Spiritual Counselor
Pastor
Church
FRIEND
GOD
Just wondering what your thoughts are on other CHOICE regarding help. Like ~ TALK THERAPY. JOURNAL WRITING, etc.
Going to the next comment box
MUSIC has the POWER to CHANGE an entire NATION. That is WHY it is VITAL that WE keep our young people away from LISTENING to dark, violent, and evil music. It seeps into the psyche and changes BEHAVIOR PATTERNS.
WE ALL KNOW the effect,/b> that LISTENING to ROMANTIC MUSIC has . . . as well as SORROWFUL MUSIC and INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC and GOSPEL MUSIC.
MUSIC is a POWERFUL MEDIUM and WE should ALL LEARN to use MUSIC for our WELL~BEING.
On to the next comment box . . .
4. My hubby has been in and out the hospital, which in turn has triggered my depression lately. Because of worrying about his health plus bills, plus whatever else that may come.
This response is understandable Angela ~ I will keep you in my prayers. Do you have a church home? Do you have others who are praying for you and your family and keeping you in a PRAYER CIRCLE? This is always BENEFICIAL.
5. And, of course there is my kids..
The possible side effects of some anti-depressants are (thoughts of suicide.) Now, that's scary to me. Because I think that I don't wish to get worse than I am now.
Angela ~ Just stay online (which makes you feel better), and also keep in touch with friends and family to avoid suicidal thoughts.
Oddly enough, I'm coping rather well without any pills. I've dealt with depression since high school and I'm so lucky to still be here today.
GOOD to hear that you are coping WELL without any pills Angela.
I'll wait for you to come back before I respond further.
HUGS ~
Rene
But, sadly I stopped writing there.
Zero people came to my blog and it just depressed me.
So, I basically went on to other things.
Then, after I found Gather, I began writing..
Not a blog or journal.
But, I actually started writing short stories again.
Just writing more period. Fiction, romance of course, my favorite genre.
As to free help, there is none. For every program that is free you have to fit into a basic standard of living. You have to make under a certain amount per year.
My hubby makes way too much for either of us to receive anything.
If it would stop raining I'd put my garden in and eat a lot better. It was gardening that pulled me out of my last clinical depression.
and just because we're perfect doesn't mean we don't need help from time to time
and asking for it doesn't make any less of one
if anything
it'll make you stronger
we are not invincible
and
it's our flaws which perfect us"
It is our flaws which perfect us and give us opportunities to share with flawed humans to find mutual support. Much better than any chemical agent are human (or even loving animal) agents who help us to understand that we are neither alone nor unlovable just because we have flaws. This is a lesson which strikes home because it has been so hard for me to unbend and be flawed in the presence of others. I have serious trust issues which seem to have become smoldering borders around my metaphoric heart. I keep being made aware of the professional and otherwise active healers who have come to understand that the best medicine for diseases of the psyche is love. I don't mean lust or the kind of "love" implying obligation or even the universal kind of caring we often see from the spiritually striving. I mean simple human to human kindness, understanding, openness to deep communication that allows each to feel part of more and more validated, thus more empowered.
"30 years of depression and still going. I hate it at times. Read the post I have written just recently on me and my wife and you will get a general idea of my problem. Have a great weekend." ~ Keith C.
Keith ~ WE want to read and hear more about your experience. Please bring us back the LINK over here.
Blessings ~
Rene
Andromeda Unbound
The problem is that finding the right medication for you - (assuming there is one - humans vary so widely in their response to psychotropic drugs) - is a long, ugly, frustrating struggle. The only help I can give is that it's like being in labor. You can wonder and wonder if your meds are helping, but if the are helping, there'll be no question.
I'm not suggesting everyone take meds, but if you aren't improving or your life really has become unmanageable, they're worth exploring. Assuming you have a good doctor, insurance, income etc. etc.
"I scored a 77 despite being on a boatload of drugs from the psychiatrist, and much improved from when I when I started seeing her. I hate to think of what my score would be without the drugs." ~ Ariel Storm
Ariel ~ I'm going to take the TEST, because I've been wondering what my score will be. The question I have for you is this . . . Do you think that it is the Psychiatrist that really helped you, or the prescribed medications or both?
You've mentioned that you are on a boatload of drugs, and if you don't mind sharing with us how many different medications you are own, we would find it helpful to know.
You've also mentioned that you are MUCH IMPROVED from the time you first started seeing your Psychiatrist. If you would Ariel, please share with us in what ways you have seen IMPROVEMENT. This would be helpful to know for those who are now seeing a Psychiatrist, or are thinking about going to a Psychiatrist.
Also ~ Do you JOURNAL?
The Score that you received is relative. If you answer the questions honestly, I think you will receive a score that is more in line with your personal truth. I'm curious to know what your Psychiatrist has to say about the TEST if you pass it on to her ~ do let us know her thoughts if she would allow her thoughts on the TEST to be shared.
Awaiting your return! Glad you're here with us...
"Interesting thread. I certainly find writing therapeutic. It saved my life more than once... You do have to be careful, though. Writing can bring up a lot of stuff and a person can be overwhelmed. If you take a "Writing as a Way of Healing" approach, (which I certainly recommend), you need to have a therapist or other professional working with you.
I've been diagnosed with "Major Depressive Disorder - Chronic". On the other hand I only scored 30 on the test - what I'd like to know is the symptoms of sliding into a depression. Once I'm there, I have no inner resources to get me out, but if I can stop myself on the way down, that would be useful.
I recently quit taking antidepressants after 10 years. I'd like to know what is a normal response to quitting - and how to tell that from actually re-entering depression." ~ Sarah A.
I'd like to commend you on sharing the fact that you find WRITING to be THERAPEUTIC. So do I, and many of the participants to this DISCUSSION.
I am, not however, to my knowledge, depressed. I have always found WRITING to be THERAPEUTIC. There are various levels of depression . . . from mild to SEVERE.
You've brought up something that is VERY BENEFICIAL Sarah ~ That is "Writing as a Way of Healing".
While you've mentioned that one has to be very careful in taking this approach, I take it that you are saying this as it relates to someone who is under the care of a professional -- and/or -- as it relates to you personally. Please elaborate for us.
I'm reading over the rest of what you have shared with us, and then I'll be back to comment further. . .
"I've been diagnosed with "Major Depressive Disorder - Chronic". On the other hand I only scored 30 on the test - what I'd like to know is the symptoms of sliding into a depression. Once I'm there, I have no inner resources to get me out, but if I can stop myself on the way down, that would be useful." ~ Sarah A.
Sarah ~ Are you currently seeing a THERAPIST, PSYCHIATRIST, or other PROFESSIONAL for your condition? Are you seeing the PROFESSIONAL who diagnosed you? . . .
And, also, were you provided with a listing of the Symptoms of DEPRESSION? Were you given any WARNING SIGNS to look out for?
I'm asking you the above, because you would like to know more about this area, and I am just wondering what insight you were provided with when you were diagnosed?
Please share more with us, we are glad you are here!
Going back up in the elevator here to read and get more comments to continue our DISCUSSION ~ SEE you around Keith.
I did suffer depression when my daughter was killed 15 years ago (understandable) and took Zoloft for about three months, but then stopped. Remembering how I felt then, I can sometimes see where my mood will darken and I'm on the verge, and I've found over the years that it's my cue to do something for myself, even if it's to crawl back in bed and watch silly tv and movies for a day. That's all it usually takes and I'm fine after that.
Yes, destress by being self-loving~
The first clear symptom that I had was inability to sleep. By the time that kicked in, I was already in such a fast downward spiral that I had no ability to pull out. It was only a few days later that I was a full-blown basket case. I believe there must be earlier, subtler signs that might signal a depression while there is still time to change its course. It may be that these early signs are far more idiosyncratic and don't lend themselves to general application - in that case one would have to be the observer of one's own behavior and more than that, record those observations so that if depression was pending you'd be able to go back to those notes later.
If it isn't so individualistic, maybe others here have some clues. I think the understanding of depression is still fairly general and there's a lot to be learned.
Effexor also interacts with opiates. I started having 'mini-seizures' fell down, broke feet, broke ribs... turns out Effexor is implicated. Be very, very careful about cross-reactions with this med...
keith's typo was funny in that freudian way
and Angela
two things
you don't need him to make you happy
it's a set up
and
Flouxetine is a generic form of prosac
it cost $4 for a months suppy
i know money's tight
though depression can tighten it further
it's side effect are insomnia and a tummy ache
which you can easily counter with a slice of bread and a whole glass of water
the only thing is
is you drink when you're on it
it will negate it pills effect
and another plus with prosac
you can actually take one every three days or so
so if you forget to take one
it won't cause a huge problem
and
i never suggested once that anyone was a MUD DWELLER
thank you
and
i don't have insurance
and i didn't write to obama either
there are free clinics you can go to
to see real MD's
and they can prescribe to you
they may ever give you free samples to see if it works for you
i hate taking pills
but what i hate more
is feeling like crap (feeling bad about myself is way more destructive than remembering to take a pill)
sweaty palms and tight muscles from being in public (anxiety)
all i was trying to do is offer suggestions
in the end
the choice is still yours
i get nightmares too
that's why i don't don't sleeping meds
i'm afraid i won't be able to wake myself out it
i often though
awake crying
it sucks really
to spend your life in fear
and fearing sleep even more
i often stay awake as long as i can
typically having an anxiety attack about that FFFF...
that same dream
(the man inside my eye)
xanax baby
helps me fall asleep
( i mean the little ones)
but i only sleep about 4-5 hours a night
and
omg keith
you're on three of those?
wow
i take on 10mg one and i get all gittery
i should really just start smoking pot again
aside from the allergic reaction to it
when i'm on it
i don't seem to care about anything
i really hate it when i leave really long comments that are riddled with typos
grrrrrr
if i didn't have a sense of humor
i never would have made it through it
i took the top quiz listed and scored a 63
lol
jesus
i guess it's a good thing i'm in therapy
(maybe you best not take any advice i give)
;)
And my sense of humor has always been what saved me, too.
one therapist told me humor is my coping mechanism ... :o)
it's a wonder you didn't die
staying awake that long does terrible things to the body
starting with
you need sleep for your body to rebuild itself
halucinations start within 48 hours
you must have been delerious
I'll have to do a separate discussion on the INSURANCE topic. I think it would be good to get further feedback from Gatherland Brains.
HUGS ~
Your Friend,
Rene
Angela - all the more reason to keep up with Health Care reform. I'm stuck in a different trap. I'm on Medicare, which means I am *broke*. If I earn so much as a dime, I lose it all - so I do without electricity, running water, garbage service - all of these from time to time. I eat almost exclusively oatmeal because I don't qualify for food stamps (OK - I get $16/mon and I try not to spend it all in the same place {;~')
If it would stop raining I'd put my garden in and eat a lot better. It was gardening that pulled me out of my last clinical depression. ~ Sarah A.
Sarah ~ I just posted a response to Angela above this one concerning INSURANCE. I'm going to start a DISCUSSION on this topic this week. It seems there is much to be said and learned in this area from the feedback in the DISCUSSION and others.
GARDENING is sooooooo THERAPEUTIC Sarah. I'm glad that doing so helped to pull you out of your last clinical depression ~ GOOD NEWS!
Thanks for coming back to share more input with us.