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Do I Have Any Chance?

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Depression
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Posted 3/26/2012 3:48 AM (GMT 0)
I am a 46 year old man who lives in Los Angeles.
I have depression and anxiety problems.
I am currently unemployed I receive a small amount from the VA for disability for my depression (and a thyroid problem).

I have started ECT sessions because meds and therapy are not working for me.

I have never had a relationship with a woman that lasted more then a month and I am very uncomfortable getting out and meeting people. My self-esteem is zero and I feel that I have nothing to offer a potential partner as I have too many things against me. I am so far behind in experiencing life.

I am very lonely and really am not sure if I have a future at all - even if ECT works and helps me feel better. My goal is to get back to work and have a relationship, improving myself along the way.

My depression is pretty bad right now. The ECT has helped some but I need some more sessions scheduled to get this further along.

Do I have a chance of actually finding an opportunity to find stable work and a person to share life with? Does the fact that I am so inexperienced hold me back?
Posted 3/26/2012 10:51 AM (GMT 0)
There is always a chance. The big "secret" is to maximize those chances by taking positive steps towards meeting your goals.

It sounds like you are attempting to combat your depression which is great, but do not limit yourself to any single type of treatment. It is very common for people suffering from chronic depression to need multiple types of therapies. The really hard part is finding the right ones for you.

In addition to your depression therapies you could also look into attending classes and/or seminars designed to improve your self esteem.

Whatever you do though keep your eye on the prize. As long as you keep working towards your goals and do not give up you can meet them.
Posted 3/26/2012 1:26 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Pdk88,

Welcome to the forum. I agree with Jim, there are combinations that you can do to help you feel better. And yes, get yourself out there and meet people. More people feel like you than you know. Many have problems getting out there and doing things. We all understand what you are going through. I hope that you feel better soon. Depression is no fun. But don't ever give up. Keep trying. I have seen many people get better here. It isn't uncommon. It just takes time. Be patient with yourself and your situation. Don't give up...

Hugs, Karen
Posted 3/26/2012 1:46 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you for the supportive words.

I am going to therapy and taking meds as well. I was going to go to school but had to cancel due to the E.C.T.
I will keep trying though!
Posted 3/26/2012 5:50 PM (GMT 0)
I am sorry that you had to quit school due to ect. Are you planning on going back? I hope so. Take it one day at a time. Keep posting. It does help.

Hugs, Karen
Posted 3/27/2012 2:43 AM (GMT 0)
I hope to get working again. If that is with education or not I am not sure. I am able to get school financing from the VA but at my age, I don't know what to learn.

Thanks again for the kind words
Posted 3/27/2012 12:22 PM (GMT 0)
pkd88,

I hope you do get working again. It might be fun just to take a class for fun or something that you are interested in. Don't worry about your age. We are never too old to learn. I hope you do take a class or two. That would give you new people to meet and a learning experience. Which we can all benifit from.

Have a great day.

Hugs, Karen
Posted 3/27/2012 1:23 PM (GMT 0)
Figure out what it is you enjoy doing and and are interested in and then find out what you need to do in order to make a living at it. This will help you, along with the school advisers, what courses you need to take.
Posted 3/27/2012 4:04 PM (GMT 0)
You've been given good advise, I would suggest that you look to schedule classes
around your ECT sessions...and stick with them...hope things work out for you...
keep us posted and many well wishes...
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