[artichack]

So to make a long story short......suffering from depression and anxiety for 50 years.....what to expect as I get older...retirement.....grandchildren....I am so lost for answers....support...new discoveries...I'm all ears for positive feedback...and negative.....thanks.....Artie.......up North in the cold......

[Rohag]

I am prematurely retired due to my collection of conditions.

What to expect?
Doctors' appointments
Time to think (could be good, could be bad)
Time to explore old and new interests (focus and energy permitting)
Time to interact with family (could be good, could be bad)

What resources for seniors exist up there in the North?

[artichack]

Originally Posted by Rohag

I am prematurely retired due to my collection of conditions.

What to expect?
Doctors' appointments
Time to think (could be good, could be bad)
Time to explore old and new interests (focus and energy permitting)
Time to interact with family (could be good, could be bad)

What resources for seniors exist up there in the North?

Not much for senior men...namie exists...but nothing really for support groups...have had numerous docs....like everything else here in Alaska...very expensive..even with good insurance...looking to move to warmer climate...more daylight....better medical facilities...my advice is to not get sick here...choices very limited.....i.e. emergency room...psych room..at hospital...I was hoping that maybe there was hope for severe depression sufferers in new meds....alternate treatments....ya know? maybe a break=thru other than electro shocks....padded rooms..cuffs...sorry ......venting....thanks for taking the time to ask...Arti

[Rohag]

Originally Posted by artichack

looking to move to warmer climate...more daylight...

That in itself may be most helpful.

Yes, moving to an area where teaching/research hospitals exist could offer the best chance of getting cutting-edge treatments. Moving, of course, is a challenge even for those not suffering from depression.

Low Field Magnetic Stimulation for depression got some press in 2014.

[vital]

Originally Posted by artichack

Not much for senior men...namie exists...but nothing really for support groups...have had numerous docs....like everything else here in Alaska...very expensive..even with good insurance...looking to move to warmer climate...more daylight....better medical facilities...my advice is to not get sick here...choices very limited.....i.e. emergency room...psych room..at hospital...I was hoping that maybe there was hope for severe depression sufferers in new meds....alternate treatments....ya know? maybe a break=thru other than electro shocks....padded rooms..cuffs...sorry ......venting....thanks for taking the time to ask...Arti

Hi artichack,

There are lots of things to try for depression which have quite good chances of helping or even giving you a breakthrough. The first thing that springs to mind for you is a light box and/or vitamin D. Have you tried that? Here's what I think is the best overall plan:

http://forums.psychcentral.com/4262681-post105.html

- vital

[artichack]

Originally Posted by vital

Hi artichack,

There are lots of things to try for depression which have quite good chances of helping or even giving you a breakthrough. The first thing that springs to mind for you is a light box and/or vitamin D. Have you tried that? Here's what I think is the best overall plan:

http://forums.psychcentral.com/4262681-post105.html

- vital

I do have the light box....and take a vitamin D supplement daily.....Just know that 9 months out of the year with cold and dark...not the best for me....born into it....do get out 2 to 3 times per winter on vacation...does make a difference....thank you for your advice...Artie

[artichack]

Originally Posted by Rohag

That in itself may be most helpful.

Yes, moving to an area where teaching/research hospitals exist could offer the best chance of getting cutting-edge treatments. Moving, of course, is a challenge even for those not suffering from depression.

Low Field Magnetic Stimulation for depression got some press in 2014.

As I get older..the chance for moving becomes more of an option...it's what Im working towards as a goal....Alaska is beautiful.....open....and good for those that like less ...meaning left alone...isolation....but really tough on those who suffer from depression.....dark, cold, isolated. I really do appreciate your kind words and advice...Artie