Depression Question

I'm sure there are some people with depression in here, and I was wondering...how do you cope with times that are down? Obviously you can't eat, so what do you do? I've been going through a really bad bout of depression lately and it seems like nothing is working for me. Not exercise, or being with family or friends. It's really worrying me. Thanks. -Alyssa

Alyssa, I have suffered on and off with depression my entire life. My family has a history of it on my mom's side. My grandma actually died from a heart attack induced by shock therapy while she was in an institution in 1960. I have not had it recently, but right after surgery I was very depressed to the point of old destructive, if you get my meaning, feelings creeping back in. It was hard to cope with without my best friend, food. I'm not sure how I really did it except to say that I just kept waking up every day and gradually, I woke up happy. So I don't know if I have any really constructive advice, I just wanted you to know you are not alone and that we are here for you! Are you coming Saturday? Fellowship always helps me!

Hi Alyssa. I think Support helps. Go to a support Group meeting. I have a therapist I can go see if I need to also. I think it is good to speak to other people who are going through what you are going through (or worse). Just so you know you are not the only one and so you can have other people to talk to. If you can make to our Saturday get together, then we can all be your support. We should havea great time. It might just be what you need. I hope you get over this "slump" soon. Let us know if there is anything you need. Misty

Alyssa, I get depressed from time to time and instead of turning to food as before I try to do things I enjoy such as taking a walk, reading, or just going outside or spending time with my daughters. Having this board and friends to talk to is also a big help. Take it a day at a time and know you have friends here that support you.

I am also suffer from depression, for a long time. I have been on anti depressiant for several years. I had lap band and I am off all meds except the Lexapro. I am almost afraid to wean myself off. I am scare of withdrawal. Now.. the depression (even with meds) was still a up and down thing for me. I saw a post here last year from Connie Jackson about a new therapy for depression and eating problems. Now called "Your Empowerment Source". I was a skeptic. But I put down my money and I am so happy now I did. It is amazing in the way it works. http://www.yesempowers.com/ No I am not a spokesperson. Just a very pleased customer. I don't mind telling everyone that I am. If you contact them tell them I said so. Linda Tidwell Mt. Juliet

You've had a lot on your plate lately. Any one of the recent situations you've had could worsen depression. Have you talked to your doctor to see if maybe your meds need to be adjusted? I agree that you really need to be at the get together Saturday! You need to come let us ooh and aah over you and give you some lovin' like only we can. You are doing the right thing in coming here and letting us know what is going on with you. We are here for you through the good times and the not so good.

I am going to be there on Saturday, Susan. I am trying to clean out my closet too for the clothing exchange. Right now, I've got two garbage bags full of clothes (mainly tops). Thanks for being so supportive, everyone. It really helps knowing that I have friends here. I get so much from this group. (((hugs))) to all of you! -Alyssa

Do you take medication for depression? I did take Wellbutrin AND Lexapro... I had to wean myself off of both... twice though I did it wrong and got myself into a mess... crying, angry, couldn't deal well with anything... but it was hard. Some people need medication. Its ok to use these. There is nothing wrong with a person who has to use depression medication... it can help you through a rough time... you may want to see your doctor about that. Or if you are on meds, it may not be working well and there may be something that works better. Please come Saturday. Perhaps it will help to be around people *****ally do understand so much of what you are going through. By the way, your avatar looks great! You are doing so good on your weight loss.

I do take medication. I'm on Lexapro liquid, and I think maybe the medication may be part of the issue. I do have a psych appointment on Monday morning and am going to address that with her. I was on Effexor prior to the surgery but post surgery, I've had so much problems with the medication making me sick, that Lexapro was the only thing I could get down. I also see a therapist, and my therapist is going to be getting an earful on Tuesday evening at my appointment. I'm still trying to do things to cope with my depression instead of eating (since that isn't an option) like exercise or spending time with family and friends, but I just haven't gotten the same satisfaction from things recently.