Long-term depression

I know what you mean about not taking as much pleasure in hobbies, and I think it's great you're still pursuing them. I begin therapy again in a month and I'm hoping that will help me to do the same. My depression and anxiety seem to keep me from doing much at all (plus physical ailments, and lack of money after being forced to retire). I will keep your message in mind and try and push myself to do more. Thank you for an encouraging post.
Alice

@hopeful33250

Our daughter gave us a chair exercise dvd a couple of years ago, but it's still in the package.

Jim

Jim @jimhd
Unwrap it and take a look - it might be something you can do for variety in your exercise program.
Teresa

@hopeful33250

Exercise routine. That's a great joke! I get a lot of exercise working in the yard, 8 months of the year. That's pretty much it. I don't walk much because of the burning pain in my feet from peripheral neuropathy. I have a bicycle, but have only ridden it a few times. I've rarely exercised for any extended period of time.

Jim

Jim, @jimhd

Working in the yard definitely counts as an exercise routine. Good for you!

Teresa

I can really relate and coincidently, I have recently been given a diagnosis of Atypical Depression. I'm 55 and unemployed. I hate not having a job; it's what kept me going for all of my life. I do lots of volunteer work and I find that extremely "therapeutic". Helping other people takes your mind off of the awful way you feel.

I also have the same experiences with people who say they care. Somehow, I keep trying to find someone who is in the same boat as I am and really wants a friend (a "true" friend).

I'm sorry things are so difficult for you now. I liked what you said at the end, though. You said that you'd had a great life. You had something I didn't... I know they say not to live in the past, however, when you're in some of your darkest moments, why not try thinking back to the way you felt when things were good? Also, I wonder if there are some positive things from that time that you could use to make things better now. For example, what kinds of things were you skilled at doing or did you have anything you did for enjoyment? I realize that when you're depressed, it feels like all of that is so out of reach --- I've been through that a lot. But every now and then, I'll see a little light in the tunnel and start listening to music from the past or get out my coloring book. It helps me get through at least part of the day.

I hope that maybe something I said might be helpful. Even if you know that there are people, like me, who understand what you're going through and do care. Take care of yourself. Sharon

Hi, @prescott. Just checking in to see how things are going. I remember you were having some treatment for your heart and also that you were feeling kind of depressed. How are things going for you now?

Hello @magspierce

I have been thinking about you and wondering how you are doing. I hope all is going well for you.

Could you drop us a note, we would love to hear from you again!

Teresa

Hi @paracat ..... when I read your post, I almost passed out.....I could have written it myself! I'm 72, divorced after 40 years, and have struggled with anxiety and depression since I was probably a young teen. I only got it treated when I was in my early 50's or late 40's when everytime I turned on the shower I would start to cry. And now, at 72, I have moved closer to where my kids live, which I now feel was a mistake, as I loved where I lived, had my own condo, friends, church, and had been there for 30 years. It's hard pulling up roots at this age and trying to replant. I've been here 2 years now and I'm getting used to it. I don't like it, but it's where I am. Like you, I'm a Christian, so it makes it extra hard .... I wrestle with guilt, even though it was an abusive relationship. This time of year all the memories flow back from short trips to the mountains.
Anyhow, I do encourage you to see a professional. I have been in therapy for many years with a PsyD, and on medication nearly as long. It really has helped, but I think this is just something that's genetic. Do see a professional ..... I hurt for you because I know exactly how you're feeling. Do you have a church where you are comfortable? Are there any women's groups where you would feel comfortable? Down here in VA there is no Western Orthodox, which I am, so I have gone to church with my daughter. It's not the same and I just don't feel like I fit.
Don't make any hasty decisions while you're feeling like this. My kids hounded me for 5 years to move closer to them, and now I wish I had not done that. And please, my friend, do see a professional. If you have a family doctor you trust who could give you a recommendation, that would be a good start.
Blessings,
abby

The only way to deal with depression (for me) is to befriend the beast. A depression is a hole with no end.