Depression?

[katcarasella]

Thanks Diana and Gina, your replies were very much appreciated.

[judy]

My cousin by marriage is bipolar, and on meds. She does do things that are not so reality based when she's in the manic phase, but we all love her so much.

My daughter's brother-in-law is also bipolar and not on meds. It's very sad. He's so bright and talented, yet can't hold down a job or keep a relationship going. He's also stunning - he looks like Christian Bale. I wish he would take his meds.

Pretty much all of us on my father's side of the family are on some kind of anti-depressant. It's clearly genetic, and I believe it's probably a genetic
chemical imbalance. None of us really care or get upset over it. We just take our various anti-depressants and do just fine.

[katcarasella]

It's to the point that I'd much rather be asleep than awake, I dreaded getting out of bed this morning, and I can't wait to go to sleep tonite. I guess I'm just having one of those days, but they seem to be more frequent lately. There, I got it out, maybe that'll help. Thanks for listening to me.

[Janet]

Maybe you just need to get out some. Go shopping, even if you don't feel like it. Sometimes the sunshine or just the daylight can help, also being around other people. If you have extra time...maybe volunteer some place. Nothing makes the heart feel better than helping someone else.

[judy]

You're still grieving Kathy, and it's a long, painful process. You also are faced with making a new life for yourself and that can be pretty scary! I know I'd rather sleep than have to do that at times.

I used to be with a Women's Center and we had support groups. They were wonderful, and so helpful. Maybe a bereavement group or a support group?

I don't believe in suffering, so I'm an advocate of antidepressants if you're depressed and counseling if you're not happy. I do believe that antidepressants should be prescribed by a psychiatrist, not your family doctor.

I hope you don't ponder that it's a crutch or that you can handle it yourself, or else you're weak. Leave that foolishness to Tom Cruise.

God meant us to be happy. He loves each and every one of us.

[DianaB]

Why don't you call a friend and take her out to lunch. It will give you something to look forward to and get you out of the house for a while. Or plan on going over and visiting the kids later.