What's the point?

I really don't know what is the point of going on. I'm 61 years old, my family I rarely see or talk to, no friends really. Not the type that are there when you need them, or just hang out with. I spend day in, day out alone. Work is no better, since I work alone. I lost interest in things, no plans for the future. I want to sleep as much as possible, and always hoping I don't wake up. Feeling this way what is the point? Thanks for listening.

Hello Jersey. I live here, too.

I'm wondering if you've talked with your doctor about how you feel? Perhaps a therapist?

Excersize (why can't I ever spell that word right?) is a good mood elevator. Walking is one of the easiest and best forms of excersize. I got a dog to 'make me' do just that, every day. It's been very helpful. Besides, having someone happy to see me has also done wonders for me! Having that extra heartbeat in the house, having someone depend on me...just makes such a difference.

If you can't get a pet, try a houseplant. Not anything fussy, like African violets, but a snake plant. That's a good one to start with. Trust me, they can deal with a lot of neglect! Still, having to think about where it has good light, when it needs water, etc. can really help me take my mind off of me!

Quite a few conversations can be struck up about pets or plants. You might find you have a knack for dog training or plant divisions.

There are support groups for just about everything these days, too. Many of them are free. Back when my children were small, I belonged to Parents Without Partners, D.A.S. S.H. (Divorced and Separated Self Help), and eventually A.A.. When I started seeing a Psychiatrist for depression, he also had me in group therapy. More recently, my daughter and I have found a support group for people with brain tumors, as my daughter has been diagnosed with Cushing's Disease.

My point is, at first, I went to these groups to learn things. Now, I go to these types of groups to share what I've learned and help the next person. I've made quite a few good friends from these, too. I'm sure there are things you've experienced in 61 years that would be of benefit to others.

Babies in the hospital need to be rocked by someone. Animals in shelters need to be petted by someone. Seniors in nursing homes need someone to read to them or just sit and chat with them. There are many opportunities out there. Beach clean up, clean water concerns, town committees, etc.

Be good to yourself. Go ahead and stop at that gourmet coffee shop. Buy the fancy water at the grocery store. Go ahead and take some lessons in golf. Buy yourself a little bouquet of flowers. Whatever tickles your fancy. You're worth it!

Call the doc and get out there and explore! Keep posting and let us know how things are going, either way.

There are plenty of volunteer organizations that would love your help. Animal shelters, ect...won't be long before your can retire and do you have plans?, maybe save monies and go on a cruise, or go on a train trip.

Also seek out help with counseling.

@BlueMoon, hi. I adopted a cat about a year ago. She showed up at my job and I took her home. She has helped, but I think I need professional help. Thanks for listening.

Dear Hurting,

When my husband died I was very down and could hardly go on. I found that medication helped. Also counseling and volunteer work.

I am 71 and have a host of medical conditions. I have no family and not a lot of friends. I do have an outlet though which is writing.

I no longer volunteer and do not need counseling. Growing older is not a fun thing. I can not have a pet because I am allergic and also have problems ambulating.

Still taking medication. Just push myself some days but there does seem to be plenty to do.

I hope you can treat yourself to flowers or some nice coffee out. Take good care of yourself.

@chartreux, I thank you for your reply. I find it hard to push myself to do anything. I pay my bills, food shop, work. Beyond that, nothing. I am just giving up.

@karen, it's more than being lonely, I seem to lose all interest in everything. Nothing excites me, just dead inside. Thank you for your reply.

@pitmom, I appreciate the advice, but house plants, pets won't help much. I do have a cat. More the most part I have trouble getting off my recliner. My apartment is a mess, and I don't care. I'm just going through the motions. Feel dead inside, and see no hope. Thank you.

@joan, thanks for sharing. I know I need to push myself, but I don't, and just give up.

Hurting,

Depression comes in many forms.

Since you have access to net from your recliner allow me to offer what I think is a wonderful website chock full of great anti depressive tib bits. All you have to do is start to read and search the site.

www.mindful.org

www.moodgym.anu.edu.au./welcome

Suicidal.com (includes Suicide Crisis Center and Depression and Suicide

Suicide Prevention Services Crisis Hotline 800-784-2433

No that you Hurting, are not alone, I also live in Jersey. Southern, across from Phila. Where are you?

Post here anytime, join the daily thread and get to know the daily members.

You have landed in a soft place to heal.

Peace and strength
Trina

You go, New Jersey.

I've forgotten in this discussion whether you are on an anti-depressant, or whether you've tried any before.

Thank you for your nice reply.

Living in North Jersey is a bonus for you.

A plethora of depression support and clinical help is available up there.

You just have to reach out.

Peace
Trina

@tim, I used to enjoy bowling, but haven't done that in years. Being without a car hurts. I am thinking of leaving my job, buying a car and travel the country.