Depression

[pussyfoot]

I really don't know how to describe the way I feel right now.
I've been depressed for so long that I think it's become part of who I am, but right now it's just so unbearable and I'm losing grip rapidly. Up until now I've managed to keep things together to an extent, but I've just spent the last few weeks sinking deeper and deeper into a dark despair. Its not winter blues, I seriously feel so worthless I'm not sure I can carry on. I threw away a job I loved because I didn't want anyone to see I was falling apart inside. As I type, the tears are streaming down my face. I feel so guilty being this way when people far worse off can cope a million times better. I just don't see a future.

[Old_Geezer]

Talking about things can help. Also see your GP. No point if shying away from help when staying as you are hasn't worked.

[tenrec]

So sorry to hear that pussyfoot. Take Old_Geezers advice. Please.

[marval]

I agree you need to see your GP, and explain how you are feeling. You need help to talk it all through, then you are on the start to recovery. Please don't thnk you are alone and worthless, there is life beyond the depression.

[tenrec]

You can come on here anytime you want to have a rant. There's usually someone who will reply. Don't feel isolated.

[DTCwordfan]

pussy - pull up the thread on this with flip-the-switch and there are some really useful things there.

However, up front, you are on here and that is half the battle as you are prepared to talk about it.

We are here - well some of us at most hours of the day. Next, book a slot with your GP as they may be able to help you through some of this from counselling to helping you with things like sleep.......

[boxtops]

pussyfoot - you need to go and see your doc. They won't be surprised, far from it - many more people have depression than we can imagine. I know exactly how you feel, so please don 't feel that you're alone in this - it can be overcome, but it needs to happen in very steps. First thing tomorrow, grit your teeth and ring your doctor. Don't feel guilty, that's part of the problem - everybody has worth. Clinical depression is a sneaky thing, it creeps up you and bites you. It can be chased away, but you need clinical help.

We're here for you whenever you need us, but you need to talk to the medics. I've been where you are, I feel with you, and it can be got through. I did - you can - but you need to make that first step. You can't go on like this. ♥

[DTCwordfan]

here we are:

http://www.theanswerb.../Question1075264.html

[chrissa1]

Pussyfoot, I too have gone through depression and my GP was marvellous. Please DO go and see him/her, they Will be able to help you.

[tonywiltshire]

pussyfoot we need to hear from you again.
After you have seen you GP.

[pussyfoot]

Thank you all, I went to see my GP this morning and he's put me forward to see a therapist but this can take a few weeks. He's also prescribed me some anti-depression tablets (sertraline) which can also take a while to take effect. So at the moment, although I still feel pretty much the same, I probably feel a little better having made that first move.

If anyone has ever taken sertraline before I would be grateful if you could give me your verdict on the drug.

Thank you all once again for listening to me whinge x

[boxtops]

I've not taken that but I've taken other medication - it does work - well done you, for taking that good first step. Sounds like you have a great GP - stick with it!

[tenrec]

I'm so glad you were able to go to your GP. NEVER think you are wingeing on here. Just come back and tell us how you get on.

[maisiemoo1]

Hi Pussyfoot. I too am on sertraline as I spiralled out of control big time.

Glad you went and saw doc and are getting therapy. Long story short I was in a very very dark place and had tried to commit suicide on a couple of occasions, self harmed as well as relying heavily on alcohol.

I was on the smallest dose at 25mg which I felt was not helping and am now on 100mg, I too see a therapist and that has helped dramatically, all these things have not got rid of my depression but I no longer have suicidal thoughts or thoughts on harming myself and am awaiting a appointment to help me with my drinking problems.

I wish you the best of luck
x

[pussyfoot]

Hi Maise, I'm so glad things are picking up for you, this is such a horrible illness.

Did you have any side effects with sertraline and how long did it take before you noticed any benefit?
I know any drug will differ from one person to the other, but just your view.

Thanks again x

[maisiemoo1]

When I was on the 25mg I was on them for about 2 months and did not feel I was getting anywhere with them. When I switched to the 100mg I started to feel better within myself about 2-3 weeks into them, as you said it varies from person to person and I did suffer the shakes but my doc said it could have been from both the pills and alcohol.

It is a nasty terrible illness and unfortunately your not recognised (sp?) as being ill. The number of times when I was feeling down and people just made comments such as pick yourself up etc I felt like throttling them.

I was going through such a bad time and did not seek help for quite a while as I just could not see any way forward but after seeing my doc who was absolutely brilliant I feel I can get my life back on track. She was cautious with me at first and would not allow me more than 2 weeks worth of pill at a time but now I'm allowed a full months worth. Also the therapy was brilliant I saw such a lovely lady who at the end of every session makes me laugh and believe me I have not done that in a long time.

There is light at the end of the tunnel and you will get there, so fingers crossed for you.
x

[lcg]

google the side effects of the drug - but don't panic, no-one will get the majority of them...it's usually just some of the more common ones. what i will say is NOT to stop them suddenly (unless advised by your doc). the side effects of that are far worse. any mild side effects will wear off after a while and you may need increased doses of the meds over the next few weeks until they are at a right level for you. well done you for making the first step and keep people updated or ask for help if you need it x

[tonywiltshire]

Come on and whinge as often as you like, the more often the better.