Today I took the first step in seeking help in overcoming depression

[fujiyama]

The other morning I posted a thread which was very difficult to do. It was regarding a sense of severe depression I've had in the last week, where constant suicidal thoughts crowded my mind. They weren't immediate and there were no attempts, but the feeling of hopelessness was very real. At the time, I was still uncomfortable discussing my problems, so I deleted my thread a few minutes later. However in the five to ten minutes the thread was up, I received several recommendations to seek help, something I had considered, but was avoiding.

Finally, yesterday I decided I would no longer keep it in and decided I couldn't keep going on the way I was. I decided to tell my parents a little, and finally made a call to my best friend (if there is one thing I am grateful for, it's my friend) and told him everything I felt. He reiterated what people here said - go get help and get it soon.

So, earlier today I decided to get an appointment with my family practicioner. I decided he could refer me to one dealing with mental health.

This has been a difficult process and I believe it will continue to be so. As some said, with depression things don't necessarily just get better soon. In fact, it was getting worse and worse. One of the most difficult things has been overcoming a stigma regarding mental health. Even for someone that views everything rationally I still kept thinking at the back of the mind, that "only crazy people go see shrinks".

In time I may repost my original thread, because I saved it on my HD. This community has been invaluable, because it encompasses the tolerance and understanding that few other places do. I hope to give updates every so often to show people that they too can overcome problems they may face.

Thank you for your time and understanding.

[ceile]

1. Good for you, Fujiyama

Good luck on your road to mental health.

[LSK]

2. Good for you!!

Depression is a MEDICAL condition that can be treated. Im glad you are seeing professionals for your condition.

[prolesunited]

3. First steps are always the hardest

I have anxiety issues and panic disorder. I didn't get diagnosed until after my mother died and it got totally out of control. Looking back, I realized that I had other episodes but didn't realize what it was at the time.

Facing that you have issues with your brain chemistry — and no, it's not weakness or personal failure — is the first step. As you experienced, just talking about it was a tremendous relief.

I went on meds for awhile to get me through the rough spot and was fine for a long time. I had a lot of changes and surgery last year, so I ended up taking meds for awhile again. And now I'm better and don't need them. And, I may need to do it some time again in the future.

The point is, there's no need to suffer, especially in silence. If more of us would be open about it, the stigma would start to go away. Issues like this affect MILLIONS. You are not alone.

The keys for me have been eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly. If I don't, I end up out of whack and start paying for it. It sounds simple, but it really is crucial.

The important thing is that you are taking action and control of your life. It takes time, but things will get better.

[kiraboo]

4. Let me just tell you something that it might be important to know.

If you decide to get treatment in the form of antidepressant medications, they usually take a while to kick in. So while seeking help is a HUGE step, you may find that there are still some dark days ahead of you until the effects of treatment are felt. Hang in there because you will soon feel better, and we are always here to help.

[jobycom]

5. fujiyama, you're smart for getting help, and a hero for posting about it

We sometimes forget how many tens of thousands of people read DU, even when not posting. Judging from all the depression posts I've seen lately, there are others here on DU suffering, too. Maybe some may use your story as their own inspiration. So I'm thrilled you've taken the first step to stop the suffering, and I'm glad you've chosen to share your solution with your family here at DU.

Keep us posted if you feel up to it. Don't pressure yourself. And lean on DU if you need support. And most of all, good luck and good health!!

[Writer]

6. Fujiyama, there are so many others who understand.

I have dealt with depression sense the age of 11 or 12. I am 31 now. I have battled it successfully, I think. Stress, however, induces depression in me. I managed, however, to earn a Master's without the assistance of medication. That was a great feat in my book.

I understand the stigma surrounding depression. I have to operate every day of my life with a stoic face because I can't talk about my disease with other people, and I become dismayed and hard on myself when I have insecure moments in front of those who aren't close. Yet when one reaches out, like you have, one discovers that there are many others out there who are suffering with you. And it can be a blessing.

You have done a very good thing for yourself. I wish you the best of luck and always know that there are others around.

Writer.

[hyphenate]

7. Yes, for some reason there does seem to be

a stigma against seeking help for mental health issues. However, I've been where you're coming from, and trust me--seeking help is the best thing for everyone.

I've had people tell me that they were depressed, but they weren't clinically depressed. They might have been sad or grieving, but full fledged depression hits you like a hurricane and all you can do is just sit there and be shocked. Waking up to the realization that you need help from someone out there is the first and major step to recovery.

I've been there more than once myself. This time around, it's still difficult to get a handle on the good side of life, but anti-depressants can give you enough of a mental turnaround that you know it's worth trying to live again.

I still am nowhere near "cured" or anything, but bright thoughts come more often than they used to for awhile, and I can smile again at some of the small pleasures and I look forward to a day when I can go out and experience the joy I used to have.

Good luck to you in your quest. Don't let anyone tell you that you are on the wrong track, because you are closer than most to finding some equilibrium in your life. Here's to a happy ending. :)

[Beware the Beast Man]

8. Excellent. You are on your way to recovery.

I hope the best for you. :toast:

[NewWaveChick1981]

9. Regardless of what anyone else thinks, you should be proud of yourself

for taking the first step in getting well. My husband has dealt with depression off and on for a long time, and I have family members who have as well. It's not easy, but you will feel so much better in the long run. I applaud you for taking that crucial first step! :hug:

[Proud_Feminist4Peace]

10. Sounds like you have a good freind there!!!

I know I am new and all but I used to have problems with depression, send me something in my inbox if you need or want support and you don't want to talk about it out in the open. :)

[ChickMagic]

11. I went through that when I was in my early 20's

I even had to be hospitalized for it. I know things look dark
and they will for a while, but you will come out on the other
side. With proper medical help, you should see improvement
within a couple of months.

However, I must tell you that 30 years later, it's still a
day to day battle. I'm not suicidal anymore, but I do get
into some pretty dark funks. You have to face each day with
gratitude and know that you will make it.

All my best to you. :hug: