Depression. It's a silent killer.

[Justadude64]

I would like to chat about a big problem that not too many people discuss. Sorry to be a downer. But there are too many people out there who are dying because they are depressed. I suffer from depression (not sure why) but I wouldn't think of killing myself. I've always been told that is a perminant solution to a temporary problem. I think it would do a good service to discuss what has worked for you to overcome your depression or what has helped someone you know.

 

[Ars119]

I just tell myself the depression will pass it's just feelings. Not saying it's easy, but that is the way it is. Depression is a constant battle.

 

[Mhg1999]

This is so true. I'm a introvert at best. I dont like big groups of people. I always feel like the out cast. But with my bestfriend I'm not cause hes always bringing me in and telling people hey this is my brother. Qhich makes me feel good. I know hes more out going and better looking. But he always treats me the same. So having positive people in your life helps alot.

 

[Justadude64]

I'm a transplant from California now living in NC. been here about 10 years. Married a local girl. Happily married. But I find making friends here to be very difficult. I don't feel like I fit in. Pretty much an outcast wherever I go. Never had that problem before

 

[TheOnlyOneLeft4You]

Depression is a war with the dark demons that linger inside. Everything adds up on a daily basis and need something to numb the pain constantly to make it through the day. Unfortunately that does not happen and always give the appearance that everything is like a peach.

 

[Pocketshaver]

people make to much from depression. Always make it some kind of mental thing that's incurable.

Quite often it comes from very basic things. Cant remember what psychologist said we all have basic needs that need to be meant so we can be happy.


Its obvious that certain basic needs aren't being met for you.

 

[UgliestSon]

people make to much from depression. Always make it some kind of mental thing that's incurable.

Quite often it comes from very basic things. Cant remember what psychologist said we all have basic needs that need to be meant so we can be happy.


Its obvious that certain basic needs aren't being met for you.

You have no idea what the fuck you are talking about.

 

[PNWKitten]

Depression is a very real and serious disease. It's also one of the hardest to accept and admit you need help from a professional.
After my husband died I was certain that I could handle it on my own. That I'd be ok. I wasnt. I'm not. If you know anyone or suffer yourself please go get the medication you need. Please also know it doesn't work overnight and sometimes you have to try different medications or combinations. Dont take it lightly and don't shrug it off. Try to live your best possible life. You are not alone.

 

[afriendg]

I don’t know about unmet needs being the cause, maybe that’s part of it. I’ve had mild depression with a few notable flare ups since I was a kid. I’ve learned to manage it fairly well. I’m not suicidal, and I’m grateful for all the good things I have.
Despite this, sometimes I just go down that dark well, until I can find my way back up. True friendships are a big help

 

[CherryBosom]

people make to much from depression. Always make it some kind of mental thing that's incurable.

Quite often it comes from very basic things. Cant remember what psychologist said we all have basic needs that need to be meant so we can be happy.


Its obvious that certain basic needs aren't being met for you.

I think that it's this kind of thinking that's caused depression and other mental health issues a taboo subject for too long already.

I suggest you go and read about the ACE's Study (Adverse Childhood Experiences), which proves that whatever happened in your childhood directly affects you as an adult. What you may think didn't really affect you, or you can't even remember, does impact in later life through depression, obesity, addictions and more.

You should be grateful to have never felt the darkness envelope you. But I know that it's common to not be able to comprehend depression until you experience it. And maybe you don't know that it's also common for people to get extremely angry at themselves for 'not being strong enough'. Guilt and self-loathing is an awful addition to what is already a troubling situation.

I found my light again after losing myself for a year, but I know I'm one of the lucky ones too. I also now know my warning signs and know when to reach out for help instead of trying to pretend that I am invincible.


(((hugs))) to those who need it.

 

[Uneklensane]

I don’t know about unmet needs being the cause, maybe that’s part of it. I’ve had mild depression with a few notable flare ups since I was a kid. I’ve learned to manage it fairly well. I’m not suicidal, and I’m grateful for all the good things I have.
Despite this, sometimes I just go down that dark well, until I can find my way back up. True friendships are a big help

I totally agree. Support from people around a depression sufferer is vital to their mental health.

 

[LoveBeginsAgain]

In the past, finding a hobby has helped, getting an exercise routine in, talking to someone I can trust...that one special person who understands and makes you smile again.

Finding the root cause of the depression and doing something about it is a big help.

Those are things that have helped me in the past.

 

[Chris_Michael]

people make to much from depression. Always make it some kind of mental thing that's incurable.

Quite often it comes from very basic things. Cant remember what psychologist said we all have basic needs that need to be meant so we can be happy.


Its obvious that certain basic needs aren't being met for you.

It's not just a 'mental thing.' It's a psychological disorder that can stem from many different abnormalities in the brain. An example is a lack of serotonin receptors...

Simple to treat? Not so fast. Modern medicine hasn't even began to scratch the surface of understanding how to treat mental illness. Trial and error of many different antidepressants is the best we have for now.

But with attitudes like yours, we'll never see the day mental health is taken seriously. It's all "pick yourself up, you lazy POS" by idiots who think they know better because they grew up with no mental health issues, making them arrogant yet ignorant.

 

[bonerbrew]

In the past, finding a hobby has helped, getting an exercise routine in, talking to someone I can trust...that one special person who understands and makes you smile again.

Finding the root cause of the depression and doing something about it is a big help.

Those are things that have helped me in the past.

Getting to the root cause is a must and does not come easy. In cases of chronic depression, like I battle and have for most of my life, ongoing negative thoughts is a sign of deeper rooted issues and not the sole cause of the depression itself. Just telling yourself to be happy is not enough.

In my case my brain does not produce enough of the right chemicals to feel happy naturally. So I have to take two medications in combination with each other to help produce the right chemical balance to hold my depression at bay. In my case I'll never be cured so I'll be on these for life. This combined with cognitive therapy works best in my case.

I get tired of hearing from some that depression is not a biological issue. The brain is an organ just like the heart, liver, kidneys etc... and those don't always function right naturally and have to be treated with medications and such. With no treatment those organs will fail. So why not the brain? Untreated depression or self medicated depression will only get worse and from personal experience fleeting thoughts of suicide will eventually occur to the best of us.

 

[Dribble]

Need to understand that pocketshaver is a member of the right wing circle jerk club on the general board. One of their latest beliefs is that the 2 Parkland survivors and the Sandy Hook father that committed suicide this past week...were "weak".

These Republicans are scum of the lowest level.

 

[Midwest50Guy]

You need to go talk to a doctor if you have not already. Depression can be treated. You may never overcome it but you can manage it. Also, make yourself a priority. Exercise daily, eat healthier, sleep on a regular schedule etc. Do stuff that makes you feel great.

Good luck to you.

 

[LoveBeginsAgain]

Talking is so important, acknowledging it and accepting how we feel is so important. Depression is real, and pushing or wishing it away isnt the answer. Getting help is.

 

[quietlylooking]

I went through a major depressive episode about 10 years ago. I didn't understand that that was what was really going on; I was sad and upset a lot about one particular disappointment in my life, but mostly I just stopped interacting with a lot of people and turned inward and apathetic about things I normally cared deeply about. My husband, thankfully, recognized what was going on and basically forced me to see a therapist. I'm very grateful for that, and also very fortunate for good health insurance that covered regular visits for a few years. For me, medications were not that effective but talking with someone I respected but had some distance from me was very helpful. She gave me tools that I still use to recognize and act when I start going down a dark path (and others to help prevent me from going there initially).

 

[RustyIron]

Untreated depression or self medicated depression will only get worse and from personal experience fleeting thoughts of suicide will eventually occur to the best of us.

..... but mostly I just stopped interacting with a lot of people and turned inward and apathetic about things I normally cared deeply about....

Both of the above statements are so true. I have been suffering from depression, and on medication for years.
I have tried many options over the years, and I have tried without success, to beat it.
I talk to someone on here who is a great help to me. But I struggle daily and it's hard to keep on top of it.
I stopped interacting with most people, lost all of my friends, and turned inwards as well.
The SO does not understand depression or give a fuck anyway.
I wouldn't wish this on anyone and i really feel for those people that do suffer with it.
I wish I could say, I can help, but the reality is I can't, I wish I knew why, the reality is I don't, I wish there was a way to cure it, the reality is, I don't know that there is.

Sorry for the rant, I hate being like this.
I feel so very sorry for anyone feeling the same....my goes out to all of you.

 

[coacheric]

I’ve battled depression since a teen. Tried to kill myself at least 3 times legit along with a few cry’s for help. Now I just really don’t interact with people and turn the music up louder. The voices are quieter that way

 

[Polranny]

From across the water, my depression caused by burn out. I cope but sometimes it's hard. CBT has never really helped, i put up too many barriers. Regardless of cause, treatment plans, and outcomes the one thing we need is support and, wow, have my Lit friends given me that by the bucket full.

 

[LoveBeginsAgain]

Living with depression can be so difficult. Day to day. So for me, getting through today, even if it means re-inventing myself and my outlook on life has been really helpful.

I did yoga today with some really pretty music, that was very helpful. Its one day at a time. I feel like I want to stop trying, but then I realize that I have to keep going, keep trying and know it won't always be like this.

 

[fullservice65]

Can't say I've ever been depressed, as in clinically so, but there have been really down times. Those often have been far away from "events" or "triggers," but as I look back I can see ties.
Two things for me:
Activity -- not working, but getting out, volunteering, interacting with people. Doesn't work for everyone, but it's nudged me off center, out of the rut, away from the gloom -- whatever your expression.
Second, realizing I don't have to look for happiness; happiness will find me naturally.
Just my gig. Everyone gathers hints from everyone else as we dance between each other.
Cheers.

 

[Starscream_UK]

I was diagnosed with PDD with disthymia some 14 months ago following therapy and it's shocking to realise I've been dealing with this for 24 years now.

Having the diagnosis is a major help - along with the ongoing therapy - as for awhile I thought I'd completely lost my mind.

Depression is a bastard - don't let anyone tell you otherwise. I know therapy (CBT and IPT) aren't the way for some folks but it worked for me.

 

[PWilton]

I think that it's this kind of thinking that's caused depression and other mental health issues a taboo subject for too long already.
I suggest you go and read about the ACE's Study (Adverse Childhood Experiences),which proves that whatever happened in your childhood directly affects you as an adult. What you may think didn't really affect you, or you can't even remember, does impact in later life through depression, obesity, addictions and more.
You should be grateful to have never felt the darkness envelope you. But I know that it's common to not be able to comprehend depression until you experience it. And maybe you don't know that it's also common for people to get extremely angry at themselves for 'not being strong enough'. Guilt and self-loathing is an awful addition to what is already a troubling situation.
I found my light again after losing myself for a year, but I know I'm one of the lucky ones too. I also now know my warning signs and know when to reach out for help instead of trying to pretend that I am invincible.
(((hugs))) to those who need it.

Thanks Cherry. I have battled depression and anxiety for over 30 years. Although stable now for some years, there have been some extremely low points. Including hospitalization, shock treatments, the works. Thankful for a savvy and long time psych who has me on a good treatment of medications.

I agree completely about those childhood experiences. Took me a long time to understand that I am an Adult Child of an Alcoholic and that was laying beneath my emotions for many years.

This is a real and terrible experience to go through and I hope the best for everyone here who has/is experiencing it.