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gravyyy said:


I don't think I do enough of this. Most days I don't even walk to the mailbox to get the mail. Depression is a real problem for me. In fact I've never been hypomanic or manic so depression is the only real thing I've known for the past 10 years. I should get out more, it would help.

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You could be experiancing mania and not even know it! That is what has been happening to me. I didn't realize how the symptoms of mania varied and was unable to identify with them until recently. I've been seeing a therapist once a week for three weeks now and it is helping me alot. The only way I am able to have insurance to see a therapist is through the state. Even if you have medical insurance I think it would be worth a shot to go to your local welfare office and see if there is anything that they can help you with when it comes to medical insurance. If anything they can give you insurance with a much cheaper co-pay and give you listings of the Psychiatrists in your area that take that insurance.

I had been hunting for a psychiatrist for many months and having severe bouts of depression didn't make it any easier, so you just have to keep fighting. Right now I am on a low dose of paxil that I was perscribed from my Physician to help my anxiety because it was getting a bit out of control. That little push helped me to get the ball rolling with seeing a therapist.

It is hard for me to keep myself occupied to keep my mood up because the swings I experiance can be quite severe. I think what you should do is go to a close friend or family member and educate them on your diagnosis so maybe, with their hopefully leveled head, they might be able to give you the extra support you need. Stick to the things you like to do. If you have lost interest in the things you like to do (I have over and over,) try to push yourself to keep your hands busy. I am very creative and love to paint and draw and sculpt, I'll read and chat online and try to write mini stories about different emotions I have.

I hope things work out for you, and I'm sorry if my reply is long winded. I am new to the forum as of today... Again, good luck!