OCD and Major Depression

Thanks for your continued prayers. I have a therapist calling me now once a week. I need a med change though. Is there a test I can take to see which ones are right for me? Maria.

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I suggest that you discuss your medications with your doctor. It seems to me that they need adjusted. Perhaps a sleeping pill would help. I am a Roman Catholic. I pray my Rosary at night and meditate on scenes from Jesus' life until I fall asleep. I find that calms my racing mind. About six weeks ago, I was diagnosed with a rare incurable disease, adhesive arachnoiditis. It is extremely painful and severely limits my quality of life. At first I was in shock. A couple of weeks later, the anxiety set in, and I felt myself standing on the precipice of that dark well of depression. I knew that if I fell in, I would have a very difficult time climbing out. I realized that my choice of thoughts was now critical. First, I reminded myself that I am God's child, and it is His job to take care of me, especially now that I almost cannot take care of myself. I have a terrific therapist, and she was able to help me considerably. It is a mistake to look to other people for love and support. Everyone has their own issues to deal with. We also have to remember that God loves us first and foremost. Instead of talking to other people, I bring all my hurts and fears to God who strengthens me. Our mental health issues are for Him to take care of. We can change our negative thoughts to positive ones. Other people will ALWAYS let us down. God won't. I have placed my life in God's hands, so He cares for me. My life still has purpose and meaning in His eyes, even though I was beginning to think I was worthless. WRONG! There are still things I can do, like pray for and support people in this group. Every life has value in God's eyes, and He loves us so much!!! I recall my mother asking, "What is wrong with you?" I could hear the shame in her voice. We need to remember that we suffer from a mental illness and that still carries a stigma in today's society, although it is much better than it was when I was a child in the 50's. Yes, it would be nice if our families were kind and understanding with us, but sometimes they are just incapable of it. Family often fear that they may succumb to the same condition, and some individuals actually think that mental illness is contagious!. The best advice I can give anyone suffering from depression is: 1. Faithfully take the medication your doctor has prescribed. Sometimes it takes a little while to find the right combo, so be patient; 2. Find a good therapist that you can trust and relate to; 3. Give your life to God as you know Him/Her. Pray a lot. Meditate on how much you are loved. Ask God to bring the right people into your life. Trust Him/Her; 4. Be grateful for even the little things; 5. Get your mind off yourself and find someone else to help. This worked for me, and I hope it helps all of you! Thanksgiving Blessings to all!!!

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Hi Maria, I'm so glad you are getting help. I would ask the therapist if she can recommend a test, or which doctor can help you. I have heard lately of "genetic testing" but I don't know anythiing else about it. Just don't make any med changes without a doctor.. Bless you and have a beautiful Christmas. sharon

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