[RandyS]

Just found this site and chat room and I'm glad they're here. I've been wrestling with what has been diagnosed as "major depression" since the end of April. I'm taking Effexor, but so far can't feel any improvement. I've got some outpt. counseling sessions scheduled, but first is not for a couple of weeks. I'm on medical leave from work, but still worried about my job. If we catch a flu, we know pretty much what to expect. Not so with this, and its really got me scared. I feel like I'm sinking deeper and deeper into a downward spiral. I also feel that I should be doing something, but don't know what to do. All I want to do is stay in bed (or at least in the house) and avoid other people. From what I've read, I know that these are not uncommon behaviors; neither are they healthy. Until my first therapy app't. (or even after it), are there any things I can do to lessen the disabling ache inside that seems to be at the center of this? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

[Rhapsody]

Time to relax and to rid your mind of all the problems that seems to be swimming around in there would be a good place to start....... talking about every thing and any thing always helps me to HEAL.

LoVe,
Rhapsody -

[RandyS]

Rhapsody,
Thanks for sending a reply. I was amazed at how it helped to take away some of the feeling of isolation that those of us with depression know so well. I've been feeling guilty about doing nothing between appt's. I hadn't thought about using the time as you suggested, and will try to do that and not feel guilty about it. Thanks again, Rhapsody. Take care.

[Rhapsody]

NEVER feel quilty about needing to take some time out for your self.... just don't make it a regular habit to hide away for ever. Getting out side every day (even for just 15 minutes) can realy help rid the black cloud that often hangs over ones head.... I love walking the local lake - I am out in public and around people without having to interact unless I choose to do so.

LoVe,
Rhapsody -

[DaveyJones]

Hey, Randy...

Don't get discouraged yet. It's only been a couple of weeks since you started your meds, yes? You need to give them another month before you make a judgement about them. You're starting therapy, which is excellent! I would suggest you find a depression support group, also. Both NAMI (nami.org) and DBSA (DBSAlliance.org) hold groups nationwide, there's almost certainly one near you. It's very helpful to hear what others are going through...it's the best way to see that it's not only you and it's not your fault!

Stay strong and be healthy!

DJ

[RandyS]

Rhapsody,

Thanks so much. I'm beginning to realize that I should have titled my first post "Feeling Lost and Alone" because of how the simple fact that someone is responding makes me feel. I'm beginning to think that this chat room, with these people in it, will be a part of what I hope is a healing process for all of us. I appreciate your suggestions so much because they are things I know I can do, despite the paralyzing resistance. I know that I am not a "special case". Realizing that while reading messages posted here helps. I just want to get through this, and maybe help someone else to do the same when I am able to offer words that I have confidence in. Thanks, Rhapsody, not only for your thoughts, but for caring enough to reply. I wish you the very best in every way.

[RandyS]

Hi DJ,

Thanks very much for your reply. It means a lot. I'll be patient with the Effexor and hope that it will be effective for me. I appreciate your suggesting and providing some information re groups. Despite a strong desire right now to just pull away from people, I can see how being with others who understand what I'm going through could be helpful. That's what I've experienced this p.m. here, and I've been surprised at how much it means. Thanks again, DJ; take care.