Another hello

[Al]

Hi there, I'm Al, 35 yo M from the UK. Have joined up to a couple of boards today as i felt it was time to talk about a few things and hope to find others that understand.
Going through one of those phases in my life where nothing seems right, was treated for depression in the past but not bothered for years now as it never helped. I find it hard to talk to people about it as i seem quite happy and they don't get just how bad i am at times, i think because i have a sense of humour and am always joking people figure i'm always okay, but it's just how i deal with life.
The better i seem the worse i am in some ways you know? = !
So yeah, came here in the hopes of sharing a few things, learning a few things and maybe making a few friends.

[MsManic]

Hi I'm new here too. Hoping to meet like-minded folks. Are you on any meds or anything, talk therapy?

[Al]

Hey MsManic, r u related to MsPacman lol?
Nice to see someone said hello...
No am not on meds or therapy, did that for 10yrs from age 16ish and just didn't seem to help me so went it alone, have managed in one form or another until lately when things have just plummeted for some reason. Not that it was always candyfloss and sunshine of course, but managed to hold a job etc. Lately the whole bi-polar thing has switched from a generally manageable manic phase to an unmanageable depressive phase, not good!
Am considering going back to a dr as has been advised elsewhere but am unsure, the ad's changed me so much it was weird and therapy was next to useless for me. Wait and see i reckon.

[balcony]

Hi Al, and welcome to the forum. You are a wonderful reply person. I notice how often you have replied to others..that is very kind and nice to see. I think it does help to share how you are coping or have coped in the past with depression. I bet you find many people in here who share your views. Keep posting and thank you for being here and giving your time to others.

[Al]

Thanks balcony, this doesn't seem the busiest of boards for interaction though? I just checked out stuff that was unanswered in the last week, it means a lot to me when people at least let you know they bothered to read what you wrote and i figured maybe the same for others. It's the little things at times i reckon. Maybe people answer more when you know them already, it's often the way isn't it? I will see i spose, if not then i may start team-n00bie! Go newbies, we are the future!
I'm in a good mood today gotta enjoy those days eh?

[balcony]

Glad you are having a good day, Al. The think the interaction changes from time to time based on lots of uncontrollable factors. I hope you find the interaction helpful and supportive. Thanks for responding..I wish you many more good days, talk again, Hugs

[defeated]

Hello Al and welcome to the forum

I am sorry you are having a tough time right now. I completely understand what its like to have to smile everyday and joke around, yet feel very different on the inside. It can sometimes be very exhausting. I hope that you consider trying therapy and meds again. I know it can be a very tedious process but trust me, its worth finding something that will bring you some peace. I have been in therapy/meds for probably a little longer than 10 years and I have wanted to throw in the towel MANY times, its quite a difficult process but worth it if you finally find what helps with the management of depression/bipolar etc. It has taken me years to find something that helps a lot but I find it very important who your doctor is along with your therapist. I am not sure if you are in the position to choose but if they dont understand you then move on to the next. I wont lie, that also took me a long time, but now its worth it. If you put in hard work in therapy you are capable of changing many things in your life. Meds can only do so much, you know? I think the combination of both can be very effective if the right variables in place. Don't give up and keep on smiling when you can, I hope for many more great days for you

Good Luck