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As liz223 said, I now know that my anxiety began as an early teen due to a poor self image. I don't think anyone who knew me would have ever guessed that was the case either then or as I got older. I put on a mask of superiority and arrogance which made me a less than wonderful person to be around - I think I made a lot of effort to make others feel what I felt inside - what a jackass. Getting chronically ill gave me lots of time for introspection and then my anxiety became depression because of the hurt that I was certain I had left in my wake. My family stuck with me and have been great support and I have made some pretty amazing strides in my head - no arrogance about that, just very grateful that I have learned that being vulnerable, compassionate, and empathetic is a far better way to go through life. I am impressed by everyone who opens up about their depression because it is not viewed in the same light as other diseases, but we all can help people understand that and we will have done just a bit to make it easier for the next folks who fall prey to this nasty condition!
Thanks for all your ideas and suggestions, Gary
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I have an 18 year old teenage boy who has been suffering from depression and severe anxiety and panic attacks for 4 years now. He cant function and lead a normal life. Hes been checked out by his medical doctor. Had blood work done etc..nothing is wrong physically. I have been taking him to a psychologist for 2 years. Hes tried 3 different depression medications. The last one was zoloft 25mg. which made him shake uncontrollably, his heart pound (i could feel how hard when I put my hand on his chest) and within the first half hour after taking it he laughed for 5 minutes 3x for no reason. Weird laughing, weird behavior. 2 years ago the psychologist wanted to out him on diazapam (valium) for his anxiety. I believe those kinds of drugs lead to severe addiction and death. About 6 months ago he started trying cbd oil which works amazing for the anxiety. But it only lasts short term. I dont know what to do. All the physcioligists do is prescribe pills. They cant seem to find the right medication. Meanwhile he suffers. Hes frightened of trying new medications because he sensitive to medication which makes things even worse. Hes going to counseling once a week which really isnt helping. As a mom I feel so helpless. Does anyone have any suggestions of coping methods that worked for you? We cant figure out where this depression and anxiety is coming from. No major changes in life. ( hes been drug tested so we know its not from illegal drug use, plus he is home all the time because the depression, anxiety and panic attacks stop him from leading a normal life and hes always been a really good boy). Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.
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@gman007 I love your honesty about who you were back in the day; even though you did not cast yourself in a positive light. We are lucky when we can grow, even from negative experiences. I know there is still some stigmatism about mental illness, but there are groups out there like NAMI who are working hard to lift them. I have a daughter with bi-polar disorder. Everyone who knows me, knows she has it because I speak openly about it. I am not ashamed of her. She was born with it. It is a rough thing to live with. It is hard on her and everyone around her.