[dillpickle1983]

I'm finally getting my life together. I got my first apartment last week, and I love it. However I feel that my symptoms are creeping up on me, mainly because I don't have the money to go anywhere (I don't have a car). I'm starting to feel depressed again and I'm also struggling if I should join a local church. I'm searching for the meaning in life. Any positive thoughts or prayers for me in general will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[roads]

If you've belonged to a church in the past, Chandler, I think it would be a great idea. You could go to the congregations close to you, if there's more than one, and see where you feel most comfortable.

Having your own apartment is a real step forward. It's also isolating though, so I can see where it's going to make it easier to feel depressed and less connected to others. You're going to have to make a real effort to get out and involved in your community.

If a job isn't in the prospects right away, you might look into volunteering somewhere--maybe even somewhere you could put those culinary skills to work!

I'll be thinking of you morning and night, Chandler ... hoping you are staying strong in your rehab program.
* hugs galore *

Roadie

[Thunder Bow]

The change you made can cause feelings of Depression, it is like letting go of an old friend (Old way of living or feeling). Thus what your feeling is quite normal.

Don't try to do to much at one time. Allow yourself some time to adjust. Start by moving into your new place by putting your favorite things on the walls and around the apartment. Make it YOUR place by having your favorite things visable around you.

Move in, and get settled in First, then start working on outside social contacts. Give yourself time, dont panic or hurry.

[Beholden]

Thoughts and prayer to you Chandler. It's great that you are in your own apartment.

Feeling isolated can bring on those depressed feeling. I think it is great that you want to connect with a church. Some of themhave meetings for members like you that are feeling lonely. One of the bigger churches in my area have support groups of allkinds, support for women with young children, or support for those with depression, or support for those looking for work. Check it out.

I think you would feel good about yourself to start doing somethink like that. Church isn't a place just for Spiritual growth, most of the more "liberal" churches are very socially awar of fitting the needs of the community.

What have you learned about living on your own from all your therapy? Are you still in touch with any one from your past hospitalization/program?

Good luck and I'll keep you in my prayers.

[arachnophobia.kid]

I went through the same thing earlier this year. I moved into an apartment on my own for the first time and fell into a depression that I'd say I'm still not entirely out of... I will definitely be sending prayers your way.

- A