[SeekerOfLife]

I do not know when it started. I first became aware at age 10. I did not know it had a name. T and I talked today about long term treatment. I have tried most meds. I guess I am just posting to say I recognize it may be around for a long time, and I need to accept it Has anyone here come to accept your depression and try to live a "happy" life in spite of it? What lifestyle tips are working for you?

[sideblinded]

(((SeekerOfLife)))

Hey girl!

I am also depressed right now and I am seeing a T as well. I have grappled with the thought that I must accept depression but in a way I do not think I want to admit it.

Sometimes I have the strength to see a friend or just call a friend. Sometimes I just can't do anything accept wait it out. It does seem to get better on certain days. I think the holidays are my toughest days with depression.

I read, I listen to music, I pick up my quitar when I am not able to communicate or go outside. I'm sure others have some more tips that help them.

Take care my friend and I hope you feel better soon.

[Rohag]

My "life plate" is smaller than most. I can't fit as much stuff on my "plate" as most others can. If I try to overfill my "plate," something already on it will fall off. So, I have to pay more attention to what's on the "plate" and to what I might want or have to put on it.

[VB1313]

Bleh I wrote a pretty long response, but apparently my login got timed out before I finished.

Anyway, I've also had depression issues since childhood, though they weren't crippling until I was 19. Still, I do not expect to ever live without depression... but the depression itself is not constant, just recurring (roughly every 2-3 months).

One way to prolong the periods between depressions is to avoid negativity, that includes news, even more includes news comments, and well obviously belligerent and excessively critical people. This can prolong periods of non-depression... but well I'm assuming you're like me, and it's just a matter of time before it does come back.

So... when you feel it coming on, or you're down in it... avoid doing things that will compound your depression. While listening to sad or angry music may help express your feelings, or produce a good cry that will speed along your recovery... over doing that kind of thing just makes it worse. It's a fine line, but you can kinda feel it when it's no longer helping... make yourself stop.

Similarly, really avoid news comment sections and similar things. They're full of sick people whose only joy in life is causing pain. You don't need that. Really who does? Even non-depressives would probably do themselves a favor by not reading the comment sections under the news.

I don't know if these things will help you, but they help me. Another thing is just talk to someone you're close to. It doesn't have to be about your depression or your feelings, it just has to not be a negative topic. Just talk about anything, interests, hobbies, people like talking about the things they've been up to, ask about it. In the case of a spouse, a change of scenery is almost mandatory. Go for a walk, or out to eat at place that's cool with people hanging out and chatting.

The point is to actually engage in conversation. No TV, no laptops, no phones... actually talk with them. You'd be surprised how it can improve your mood, not immediately, but give it an hour or two, and that dark cloud over your head might just become a bad memory.

[Little Jay]

I firsted attempted suicide at 14, so must have been depressed a while before that. I'm nearly 20 and I've never gone longer than a couple of months of feeling OK before it's come back again. My doc has said to me I could need antidepressants for the rest of my life as I can't seem to cope without them, so I guess that was his way of trying to get me to accept that it may be sticking around. I just try and deal with it as best as possible, to do lists help me try and get stuff done, I am lucky to have a boyfriend whose been extremely supportive and kicks my butt into action when I need it. I think Iv'e just accepted that I'm living for those few moments of real happiness, and that I just have to accept that while faces are around me smiling that I just won't feel the same.

[Fuzzybear]

((((((((( SeekerOfLife )))))))))

[Lady Lindsey]

I deal with depression also. It is not my primary dx but is part of the dx

I believe you are on the right track with focusing on horseback riding and other positive things that bring a sense of peace. Even if it is a brief peace it is peace
.I find practicing mindfulness and meditation really help with my depression.

Depression can be overwhelming. Focus on the moment. You are an amazing person. Remember. Baby steps