depression

I just took an online test for depression.  It said I was severely depressed but I already knew that.  I have sufferred from depression all my life also panic and anxiety.  It has gotten worse lately, the past year.  I haven't been able to get a job.  I don't have any medication.  I can't sleep and have no appetite.  I have no friends.  My brother is in another state and just making it I don't want to trouble him.  My marraige is failing.  I have frequent headaches and stomach problems.  I drink to be able to sleep.  I feel hopeless.  I need help and I need it now but I don't know where to get it.

Post Edited (helpandhope) : 11/22/2011 6:24:04 PM (GMT-7)

Hi, You have compressed all your problems into one big emotion, to help analise your depression you need to understand it. So the best thing is to have piece of paper, draw one big circle this one is your depression. Next draw smaller circles around the large circle.....each represents each problem you are experiencing or is creating depression, anxiety or panic. Prioritise each cicle by priority from 1 ect. On a another piece of paper starting from circle one the one causing the most distress write.....in columns what is causing the problem the good points the bad points. Another column write what can and what you think you cannot do about it. In the last column write what you want the out come to be. Do this for each circle. All these circles add up to make the main circle. You need to look at what you have wrote and work on one circle at a time. Forget all the other circles untill you have managed to a point where you feel comfortable to move on and work with the next circle. This excersise breaks the desperation down and makes things not so overwhelming. You will also not feel so hopeless and start to feel achieviement as you are activly working to reslove the problems you have. Simplification not extension and out of control thoughts. It also puts things in to perspective. Headaches stomache problems are all part of the stress. There are different levels of depression and if you feel you cannot cope you need to see a doctor, you may need medication or counselling to help process. I have found this excersise very helpful as you can keep going back to it add take away as needed. I also have all three have for many years, it is sometimes so overwhelming you feel everything you have said. It is always easier on the otherside of the fence, but know you are not alone. Hope you feel better soon, one way or another it can only get better, always think that no matter how bad you feel.

freedom4life

Thank you all for your supportive messages. Today I feel alittle better. I'm trying to decide what to make for a Thanksgiving dinner tommorrow, potluck. The one thing that always gives me a smile is my quaker parrot, he talks all the time and laughs alot. I know I have alot to be thankful for.

Helpandhope...I am so glad you feel better today. I would like to wish you and all my american friends from hw a Happy Thanksgiving! I hope everyone has a great day.



Take care, Amy