Depression help without meds?

Three cheers for your wonderful attitude! I am trying; thank you for your encouragement!

@dorma Yes, many of us in certain generations were definitely raised with a skepticism about therapy. It's good to hear you're considering counseling, especially in light of what your pain management interventions, conversations and outcomes have been to date. I can understand wanting to try something new that can provide more relief, not add to your discomfort.

I'm wondering if once you start doing a deep dive into research on CBT you may be encouraged by what you find. For instance, did you know that studies have shown that individuals who receive CBT are less likely to experience a relapse of depression within a year compared to those on medication alone? And as far as pain, some studies have demonstrated improvements in pain intensity. This can achieved by providing techniques to reduce catastrophic thinking, improve coping mechanisms, and enhance overall quality of life. That alone may raise a skeptical eye, but in my previous line of work I did see how this helped individuals who experienced pain - and depression - caused by a variety of ailments.

To find a provider who specializes in treating depression and pain, you can look into Psychology Today or the American Psychological Association's Psychologist Locator. Also, many pain management providers work in conjunction with therapists who specialize in this field. Have you inquired with any of your doctors about this possibility?

I'm guessing perhaps their lack of "interest" might be partially my fault. I have not learned how to push for what I want/need, and tend to accept whatever they tell me. I don't think of the questions I need to ask until later.

Thank you for your responses. I do appreciate the "nudge" to seek more for answers and for help. Thank you for suggesting places for me to look. I will try!

@bewildered
Yes I live in a 55+ Del Webb community. I take most of my water aerobics there. The other days I do water aerobics is outside of Del Webb at another location explained below.

I live in a overall planned commuinty called Nocatee. Nocatee also have fitness facilities, and activities offered to anyone who lives in Nocatee not just an individual community. They offer wide arrange of activities including water aerobics. When I swim I do indoor at Del Webb or do outdoor at Nocatee lap pool.

Many of the individuals who I do water aerobics at Nocatee also belong to local YMCAs. The Y's offer water aerobics also most days of week.

Sometimes when I see someone one post on MCC that they do not have access to a pool I will mentioned check your YMCAs as almost all have pools, water classes, and activities.

@dorma You've taken a major step in recognizing a learning opportunity! Just as many of us struggled with accepting therapy as a medical modality, many of us learned to simply accept what medical "authorities" have told us without question. A big stride in taking ownership and autonomy is becoming our own health care advocate - it's certainly okay to question and one way to do so is exploring options, writing them down before your appointments and then prodding your provider by asking, "What about" or "Can we explore" -- or even in the case of when they may say, "You're too old" inquiring, "What exactly do you mean by that, what impact does my age have to do with the [treatment/medications/modalities] you could offer?" Or even saying, "Help me understand your reasoning here".

Sometimes people feel they're taking up too much of a doctor's time by asking questions but be assured that's your right. Try not to think so much of yourself as a patient - as that in itself puts you in position of being somewhat subservient, or less than -- but as a client obtaining paid services, which is exactly what you are doing. You're essentially employing a professional to provide you with services.

Do you think these suggestions help you feel more empowered?

Yes, it does help. I really need to find the courage to speak up more, and that is very hard for me to do. Very.

When I was forced to retire and go on permanent disability in 2015, my doctor told me that he was worried about my physical health, along with my mental health. I remember thinking that he was overreacting, my mental health wouldn't be an issue.
Turns out he knew what he was talking about. Less than a year later, I had the most vivid dream I've ever had in my life. It scared me like nothing ever has, because I did something horrific to my family, while feeling zero emotion about what I did. I waited a few days before I told my wife about it, and we immediately made an appointment to see my doctor. After hearing my story, he changed my depression meds and referred me for mental health counseling.
I've been through 2 bouts of really serious depression that included thoughts of suicide, but between my current meds, along with talking with my counselor once a week for a few years has made things better. My mental health counselor has helped me considerably. Part of that might be because we're the same age, and our political leanings are also the same, but she's helped me let go of a lot of pent up feelings.

When we are employed, we are distracted. Unresolved issues fester in the psyche and unconscious. When we retire, the lock to the vault comes off, and all the detritus comes flying out, like spirits on Halloween. This us ripe for Jungian analysis. It can take a long time to parse through years of supressed anger, anxiety, trauma.
It's taken me 8 years. Painful at times but worth it. 🙂

Agree about retirement.
My "cesspool" of unresolved trauma, etc. bubbles up at 5 am every morning. I have consulted with a Jungian dreamwork therapist, an "energy healer", two psychiatrists, and 4 years of conversation with a traditional therapist. But every morning still "stinks".

Outside "help" did not work for me. Usually made it worse because they were all practicing their craft, and I was just an object for them to practice their craft on.
I got real quiet (proper and hard but enjoyable Zen Med) and allowed the cesspool to drain (painful, but not-too-dramatic supportive spouse helped). I read Jung (didn't understand all of it right away). Went to Jung lectures. Read D.T. Suzuki, Abe Maslow, Ashley Montague, and Alan Watts.
Mostly "noticed" the outflow of sewage without swimming in it, until it drained, leaving the Original Face (nashama) to carry on.
I am happy to tell you more, if you like.🙂