I am also 55 and had ECT about 6 years ago to bring me out of a severe depression. Yes, it worked and I’m thankful for that but I didn’t know how much my memory would be affected. I was an executive at a large company but couldn’t do that job anymore. My memory is so poor I keep a little notebook to write down everything I need to remember. And I ask my family and friends to send me texts rather than verbally say things to me. It is a unique hell to go from an intelligent, vital quick-thinking person to one that can’t remember much before 2011. But, I have tried to reinvent myself and go back to the interests in life that made me happy and feel fulfilled. However, I am worried about the number of celebrity suicides this year due to bipolar disorder. I can sink anytime into the dark vortex.
This is my first visit to psych central and first post.
I feel so much better knowing others struggle with these issues. My friends and family just don’t get it. So thank you all for reading.