[Zebra821]

You fall into a depression and every moment is hard? Every breath is a struggle. People beat you down because you're already so vulnerable, and you just sit and take it. I feel so lost. I've been in the hospital, I've been in and out of IOP, I'm losing this battle. What happens when I can't handle my job? My life? What do you guys do to get out of this? Is there a happy ending? A silver lining? What saved you? Jogging? Meds? A pet? Therapy? I've tried almost everything under the sun. I just need a happy story. A success.

[Altered Moment]

I totally understand. 20 years of trying everything and I still get overwhelmed by it.

All of the above, and you keep fighting. When it beats you sometimes you have to adjust your life.

Medication - keep trying to find what works
Therapy - CBT, DBT, Interpersonal
Meditation
Mindfulness
Spirituality
Acceptance
Diet
Exercise
A sense of purpose and meaning
One day at a time, one moment at a time.

All proven to help but sometimes it just kicks your ***.

Since last April Fetzima has worked like a miracle but recently I have had to up the dose twice and eventually it will quit working. I will cross that bridge when i come to it.

[regretful]

Like Zinco, I understand...it's been several years for me...what worked for me was having a job in a position that I truly enjoyed...when I had that, I used exercise, daily prayer, good diet and exercise...lost the job - sprung back into depression...not doing all the things I was. Hoping for it to get better soon. As for the silver lining...I have heard that there is, and I believe it...this is what I heard: "nothing lasts forever, not even depression."

[ManOfConstantSorrow]

Originally Posted by Zebra821

You fall into a depression and every moment is hard? Every breath is a struggle. People beat you down because you're already so vulnerable, and you just sit and take it. I feel so lost. I've been in the hospital, I've been in and out of IOP, I'm losing this battle. What happens when I can't handle my job? My life? What do you guys do to get out of this? Is there a happy ending? A silver lining? What saved you? Jogging? Meds? A pet? Therapy? I've tried almost everything under the sun. I just need a happy story. A success.

Sounds like you have it really bad at the moment. My sympathy indeed, I too have had it pretty bad, though I suspect not as bad as you. In times of crisis meds have saved me twice, therapy once, but depression is not always easily conquered although I now have 40 years of skill and experience to fight it.

[waterknob1234]

Hugs to you zebra. Depression is cruel. I understand completely. I have been there. I think the right combination of medication might be helping me for the moment. Other things that seem to help me some are prayer, music, and finding a sense of purpose. Sometimes I think finding a sense of purpose is the key because it seems to give us a reason to go on. Of course you have probably already seen a psychiatrist and a therapist. My heart goes out to you. Depression won't last forever, it just really feels that way when you are in the deep pit of it.

I am so sorry if people are beating you down. People should try to help, not hurt you. However, we all know people who will hurt us, even when we are already suffering. Try to find loving, caring, helpful friends and family to be with. And post to us. We care. Kindhearted people here who listen and care have been lifesavers to me in my worst moments. Best wishes.