Michael's Story:
I haven't had depression in a very long time but since xmas 2011 I am in a dark place and can't seem to shake it. A few triggers may have started it, my first xmas without my mum and not having a good relationship with the rest of my family. Since January 1, I haven't had a drop of alcohol which is a personal triumph but hasn't helped my darkness, I thought it would've had me jumping out of my skin, but no.
Today's a particularly dark day. I had to drag myself to the gym then do some shopping but the whole time I was craving the sanctuary of my couch, hopefully some lightness soon.
=================================================
Blogger's Note: When reading Michael's story, a number of things resonated with me. I always find Christmas difficult, despite having a good relationship with my family. It's just a hard time. I once felt the pull of alcohol as a means of medicating my depression. But for me it just makes it worse.
I want to congratulate Michael for going to the gym! I know I need to do that more often - I need to drag myself outside or to the gym and work out. Even if it doesn't make me feel better at the time, I know it is good for me and eventually it's benefits will be more evident.
Thanks for sharing your story, Michael!
by comming to grips and identifying the issues if a huge step in development of depression treatment. working out is another helpful way of improving yourself. You don't always have to go to the gym. You can workout at home. I know of a site that gives you plenty of exercies to perfrom in your own home. http://www.plank-exercise.net they have all sort of quick exercises you can do to improve your confidence and get you in shape at the same time.
ReplyDeleteChristmas for me is the hardest too. Next would be my birthday. It's just hard to resist to have a drink whenever I feel blue. I just might try working out next time.
ReplyDeleteI can relate to this. Lately, it seems everything is overwhelming and I can see no light. Up until two years ago, I felt I had "an out there". It is gone and it all seems just so sad and dark. Adult children overwhelm me with their problems and needs. Instead of welcoming phone calls and visits, I just wish some peace and stillness in my own home. My husband listens and hears me, but is at a loss how to do more to help. He is a good man and I would not wish to be trying this without him. But blue and dark is where it is at.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the courage.
ReplyDeleteMy first blog....tell me if I'm not doing this right. My depression and anxiety worsened after the 2nd night that I didn't take my sleep med Trazadone. I hate being on meds. I was able to get to sleep, but the depressing thoughts and suidical ideations were overwhelming. I've few friends, no spouse, no prospects, and no children, little family, and no one to talk to about this. What's worse is that I'm in the field to help make others feel better. I'm a hypocrite. Now my worse thought is that no one will come to my funeral. I'm only 47, but I realize now why the elderly are the largest population to commit suicide. Please help!
ReplyDeleteI hate being on meds too. And I must say, even when you have people in your life that you think you can talk to, it's not always effective - because if someone hasn't been through it, they can't really understand it. You know?
DeleteI don't know why, but I often think about who would come to my funeral. I figure it will be a pretty empty party. But when the time comes, it won't really matter to me, because I won't be there. And yet, it still a thought that seems common among those with depression.
Don't feel like a hypocrite. We all go through different phases in our life, and just because you aren't doing great right now, doesn't mean you're a hypocrite. Helping people is awesome and you're blessed to have that opportunity.
Please feel free to e-mail me anytime on my hotmail.com account (jamieleggatt@).
Well Done Michael - what an achievement to make it to the gym when feeling depressed, I need to follow suit, I hope it helped a little. Thanks for sharing this story x
ReplyDeleteI can relate to you Michael. Whenever i feel depressed, what i do is try to busy myself like shopping or exercising. This kinda helps me forget my problems. Good luck to you.
ReplyDelete