|
drugs are our only hope of survival and happiness. I hate the drug whores as much as the next person but some drugs save people's lives (like mine).
If you feel hopeless and/or helpless, you are probably in a depression. Don't fool around with it - go see a professional. Just getting another point of view can be extremely helpful.
Unfortunately, it's hard to know you're depressed when you're in the middle of it.
One of my favorite books that I keep handy is "Your Depression Map: Find the Source of Your Depression and Chart Your Own Recovery" by Randy Paterson, Ph.D. There is an extensive list of symptoms to determine your depression level. After years of dealing with this disease, I still sometimes have problems identifying what's happening with me. I just go to the list and it gives me a perspective on what's going on and what I can do about it.
Here's what Amazon says about the book: Mental health professionals have recently discovered the benefits of defining an individual’s particular depression — a process called depression mapping — and then building a program tailored to the patient’s personality and lifestyle. Based on the premise that depression is not an isolated disorder but a cluster of related disorders, this workbook asks readers to look at the multiple causes and symptoms of their depression and the myths that may hinder healing. Readers then devise their own individual depression map. Included are guidelines that include illustrations, charts, graphs, and exercises for strengthening motivation, setting reasonable goals, controlling thoughts and emotions, managing stress, assessing biochemical and physical approaches, and evaluating outside help.
Good luck to you - don't be afraid to ask for help. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to do it but it can save your life.
|