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Does Mental Illness Run in Your Family?
Mental Health | Last Active: Jul 20, 2016 | Replies (11)Comment receiving replies
@liz223 Thanks for sharing your story. I'm truly sorry to hear what you have been through. I too have suffered with depression, as has my husband, and my family has a history of mental health issues so I understand where you are coming from. It always amazes me though that those who have been through some of the worst things in life, are often times the most positive people you'll ever meet. My mom is one of those. She's faced so many traumas and deaths but through it all has remained a strong, positive and faithful woman. I admire that about her and it sounds like you are the same way!
I'm tagging @johnwburns, @dawn_giacabazi, @daisydextermom, @wife1, @towanda, @catw1101, @ejean and @oplifetrials who all have experience with depression and may want to share some of their history.
You seem to have maintained such a positive spirit. Can I ask what helps you combat the depression?
Replies to "@liz223 Thanks for sharing your story. I'm truly sorry to hear what you have been through...."
The depressions I've had have all been stress induced. What can lower the threshold is lowering my thyroid dose (I've had a few doctors mess with it) or not getting enough sleep. What helps are staying busy, staying active mentally and physically and watching my dog innocently enjoy life.
I can understand stress bringing on your depression. It can do it, and you're right, getting our sleep is important, as well as eating well and exercising. All of us need a pet. They offer unconditional love, make us be responsible to something instead of brooding over ourselves and bring so much joy. I have a dog, a kitty and 2 parrots. Walking my dog first thing in the morning gets me off to a good start. We both enjoy so much.
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Thanks for your reply. To combat depression, I need challenges, something new to learn or do. I have taken on many hobbies and enjoyed them. I am 84 now, but still like to learn. I really like the computer and do the website for our church. I also do our email prayer requests and nothing makes me feel better than talking with God and praying for others. I love how God loves us and works in our lives. He is our friend, our healer, our wisdom and so much more. I love to attend bible studies and to read spiritual books written by strong men and women of God. Following God is exciting to me.