others share their depression experiences and what they've learned

Claire

After a lot of what I believe were wasted year's being treated for depression, I was finally diagnosed with having manic depression late last year. Because of all this, I missed out on much of my 3 children growing up as I was unable to cope most of the time. I also ended up with 2 failed marriage's and being sent to jail. I very nearly lost the support of my children and my first grandchild.

I, by now, was so bad that something had to be done. To this day, I don't know how I did it but I dragged myself to our local community mental health center where they got the duty social worker to see me, who then in turn got the psychiatrist to see me. He promptly put me on lithium along with my seroxat.

I still have regular blood test's and the lithium has been increased a few time's. I see a c.p.n regularly now and my children now understand all about my illness.

One thing I have learnt is that I have to have proper rest and to try not to take everybody else's problems on board. I have also learnt how to say no and not to feel too bad about it. I also try to eat on a regular basis and eat a well balanced meal. (how to overcome depression)

Whilst I don't always feel to good and quite often can't get through the day, I know that this time it won't last forever. I can even enjoy reading a book again, something I couldn't do for about 3 years. I also enjoy life again and even managed to go abroad this year with some friends.

I just wish people would think twice before they say say "oh snap out of it" or "pull your self together" as this is not the answer.

next: Depression Over? Why It Can Strike Again...and Again