[Creative1onder]

Hi, I am currently finding it difficult to cope with depressive illness which is affecting me severely in many ways.
I am not currently working, not fit for work, on ESA. I've been trying to focus on managing health, getting help on NHS, etc. but its not been easy..quite a struggle to get my circumstances and needs met.but at the same time I feel really restricted financially so its difficult doing things I want or important/beneficial.. im not really well to drive but abandoning the car means becoming more isolated and feeling trapped.. Im really low on mony -in overdraft which is stressful.
I dont know whether to find work or not even if Im ill.

[Creative1onder]

I wonder if anyone can relate to this? Not being well to work (but wishing to gain exp/skills/increase contact with others) but at the same time being in a really difficult financial position which makes you trapped/restricted in what you can do. The Allowance I am on at the moment is not sufficient and It is challenging getting help I need on NHS.

[IceCreamKid]

I wanted to reply to your post to offer emotional support. I can relate in part to what you have written. I have a job, but it contributes very much to my depression; I get up in the morning and then sometimes it takes quite awhile before I can force myself to get ready for work. Yet I can't give it up because I have to have the money to live. It's the extreme fear of being unemployed that keeps me going. But it keeps me sick. It's a vicious circle. Since money is an issue, one of your missions should be to look for free ways to make yourself feel better. From getting more exercise to getting enough sunshine, to taking advantage of any counseling or group meetings you can find; do all that you can to help yourself. If it seems overwhelming, do one thing at a time. Courage!

[tigerlily84]

Hi Creative1onder, I also wanted to offer you some emotional support. Like IceCreamKid, I have a job that contributes to my depression. I was wondering if there was any way that you could go to a clinic that offers counseling sessions based on a sliding scale? You can also try seeing a masters student that is overseen by a licensed T (therapist) as well for a severely reduced price. That is what I do, and I pay $25/session, based on my income. I wish you the best of luck that you can get out of that horrible cycle.

[Creative1onder]

Thanks for trying to offer some support.
I feel like i'm in a really difficult situation where I can't do very much for myself or with others and I don't like being stuck in bank overdraft. I have been trying to focus on managing health issues, through getting professional help and support but its a real struggle to get ppl to believe/ take me seriously, be assessed thoroughly and get clear accurate diagnosis and get one to one psycological therapy on nhs.
I am considering whether to go private, see private therapist and psychiatrist but it would mean i need to improve my financial circumstances, find a job, but I am not currently well.