A long, hard road

[Dibs]

Hi all. I'll try to make this short. I started having clinical depression about a decade ago. Since then there have been ups and downs, but it always comes back.

My latest episode has been going on for a few years now. I have been very socially isolated, partly from my own doing. The fact that I'm unemployed makes it very hard to meet people. Without money it is impossible to afford therapy. A few years ago I was able to attend a clinic that was government run for poor ppl like me, but they transitioned me out after a while to make room for new people.

Aside from getting a job (which I'm trying to do), does anyone else have any advice? I find that my family / friends for the most part try to be supportive, but don't really understand depression. I decided to try this site out to connect with people who really do understand.

[Emj]

Hello, it's a shame you're going through all this. I can relate. I started meds for anxiety 9 years ago, meds for depression 2 years ago, with outbreaks 1-2 times a month. Anyway, I my self am not working. I'm a sub teacher but haven't been called. I receive alimony which is just enough to pay personal bills. I live with someone who takes care of ALL the household finances, thank God! I spend many days/nights in front of the TV and the laptop. So......I end up pushing myself outdoors, cleaning while listening to upbeat music, stretching exercises with the music. Music soothes the soul, it can get you going and increases that serotonin. This probably sounds very mundane but it works. I can get deep into my depression for days, but the downside is gaining weight, headaches, overeating....things I absolutely hate! Please find one thing you like doing and you'll start to feel better about yourself, Blessings on your recovery.

[Dibs]

Thanks for understanding. Yeah music is good for the soul, you are so right. I try to use music to get me through things that I got to do. I think I need more people interaction in my life though. Right now the job thing just isn't working out, so I'm trying to find other ways to connect with people. I visit family members sometimes, but that doesn't last long. I really need some kind of support group.

[Emj]

Volunteering is helpful. I helped cook dinner on Sunday nights at my church, and looked into serving lunch at senior centers. We all need people interaction so if a job is not on the horizon volunteering may be a start.

[Emj]

We all need people interaction as it makes us feel worthy. Have you tried any volunteering? I cooked Sunday dinners at my church for the homeless and less fortunate, and looked into volunteering at senior centers. It feels great reaching out to help.

[Dibs]

Yeah volunteering seems like a good idea, I have started to look into it. But even that intimidates me a lot. So many interactions that I have with others end up making me feel worse.

[Emj]

Everyone is grateful for volunteers, and you'll feel so much better about yourself. Your face and attitude will show how happy that you are serving