Importance of focusing on Positive with Depression & Anxiety.

@stsopoci Thanks for stopping by this forum, and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Just like you have said, finding what works for each person is key, as we are all so different. It helps to hear the different options. I tend to stress about the small things. While not "awful-izing", I do investigate with a magnifying glass, as surprises are not my cup of tea. Having had general depression several times in my life, being able to distract myself helps. Either reading, or creative crafting, or getting some physical exercise. Getting out of my own head by volunteer work, thinking about others, is good. Journaling my thoughts can be very therapeutic, also. Best of luck on your journey, and come back to visit, let us know how you are doing!
Ginger

Thanks for the thoughts, I’m interested in how others feel the warmth of positivity in different ways. I know my brother moved 280 miles up north to escape from everything. It didn’t work for him. I find myself feeling really good when I accomplish a task that is somewhat challenging or brand new. I also have gotten into birding both watching, identification and photography. It’s an easy way into nature appreciation here in Minnesota because we have a main migration path for the birds up and down the Mississippi. Take care.

@stsopoci

You have posted some extraordinary thoughts! Focusing on the positive is so important. As you did, I also grew up in a very negative environment that made it difficult to be a positive adult, but it is possible, it just takes some mind training and reaching out to others.

Were there any particular books, practices or ideas that helped you accomplish this change of mind from negative to positive? Also, had you tried any other meds, other than the Lexapro?

Inherited issues are the gift that keeps on giving. My late mother had depression issues which now are mine. She couldn’t help it, nor can I. The upside is that I can take some control with medication, and am able to function normally on a day to day basis. I have dysthymia, so it never goes away, and an occasional major episode. The downside is you never get “well”, just dampened symptoms of depression. My regret is a seemingly never-ending pharmacological experience. Grateful for what I can do.

Yoga, lots of friendly groups for guys my age, bird watching, nature trips, staying active physically, mentally and spiritually. I fall asleep reading books so I listen to books. Mystery’s keep me trying to solve who did it and I love puzzles. My Mom and Dad were WWII vets and I’m so proud of them and blessed to be their child.

Yes for me is excerise, praying and having that one friend you can always go to

Hi, @stsopoci - it sounds as as though you have learned a lot in your life through dealing with the addictions to drugs and alcohol, getting professional help and also self-reflection. Seems like you've also learned that self-care, the company you keep and attitude — positivity — makes a big difference.

I'd also like to bring some other members into this discussion who may have some further input on these subjects, like @grandmar @notaround @sandij @thankful @parus @johnhans.

You may have noted this discussion you've started also now has a relationship to the new Connect Addictions & Recovery group, so that members there can also contribute to this conversation. I also wanted to encourage you to post some of your story in this discussion in that group https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/addiction-recovery-meet-others-come-say-hi.

Also wondering which of the activities you talked about being helpful to you -— yoga; bird watching, identification and photography; and more — have helped you the most?

There is a new medication I want to try. I have been on MANY anti depressants over a 30 year span. The medication I have been looking into is Spravoto, a nasal spray derived from ketamine. It’s brand new, but studies have nothing but positive for those of us who have suffered way too long!

@nanners012910 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Anytime there is a new medication on the market there is a period of adjustment while people put it into practical use. What I have found over the years is that what works for one person may not work for the other person. If you're comfortable please tell us a little bit more about yourself and the types of medications that you have used, and other ways you have battled your depression? Here at Mayo Clinic Connect we're always interested to hear what has worked for different individuals. This way we are able to expand our knowledge base and also consider alternative things in our own personal lives. None of us are medical professionals; we are all patients.
Ginger

For me, relying on my own feelings on taking meds that worked or don’t work well enough was the wrong choice. I eventually found a GP that knows me very well and knows what med is working and which one is not. I hoping the best for you.