Quote:
Originally Posted by cantbreathe
I have had multiple sclerosis and unable to work for 6 years now. My son is 16 and I see my laziness/depression affecting him. What do people do to pass the super long days of nothingness? I've always had a job & its saddening.
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I totally get where you're at. I'm used to working 80-100 hr weeks, then I got sick and was in the hospital and a skilled rehab for almost 9 mos and off work completely for a whole year and even now I'm only cleared to work part time and I'm kind of going crazy.
Some things I've done. I don't know what your limits are physically, but I've tried really hard to stay physically fit. I think that's helped my depression a lot too. I've been running and really gotten into Nintendo Wii. I started scrap-booking all the photos from college, med school and my childhood. I started knitting. I went crazy organizing. Cleaned out all my closets. Got rid of a bunch of stuff I didn't need/want. I started cooking. Became totally addicted to Criminal Minds on tv. I do work part-time and I try to keep to some sort of schedule. Getting up by a certain time, dressed at a certain time, eating meals at reasonable hours etc. I also read a lot. A lot. The library has become like my best friend. Plus you can check out movies too. And I usually walk there so a) that takes up more time and b) I get in some exercise. I'm in the hospital right now and the days just drag on by, so I understand how you feel.
Also when I'm home I try to do one "self care" thing a day - paint my nails, do a face mask, take a bath etc. Something to help me feel better. I do have a lot of issues with chronic neck pain and headaches and this seems to help some as I've been off narcotics regularly for several mos and I'm trying to avoid them. I imagine you have some pain issues as well. Oh, I also have totally gotten into HGTV and I love painting things, refurbishing old furniture, decorating and re-decorating my house etc. Idk. That's what seems to help me. I've also gotten back in touch with family and friends over e-mail, social media and texting and try to stay in better contact. I don't know how much of that can apply to you, but I hope some of it helps. Sorry you're having such a hard time.