Hi everyone, it's Suz

I've sort of disappeared from the forum, and I wanted to let you all know the reason.  My depression, anxiety and agoraphia became overwhelming (as I'm sure you know from my previous posts).  I've taken medication for years, but never did therapy.  I made an appointment and went (yes, I got out of the apartment) to the hospital for a psych assessment.  They have a very good mental health program there.

When I went I didn't know if I would have to be an inpatient or do their day program.  Luckily they  assessed me and I am now doing their day program.  I go every day from 8:30 a to 3:30 p, and the therapists and everyone there is really kind and wonderful.  We do group therapy, individual therapy; they have a recreational therapist to help structure and schedule you daily life; a dose of spiritualtiy, and also starting you on an exercise program, eating regularly and healthy, etc. 

The amazing thing is I have gotten up, fixed my self all up, and have been able to go there 3 days in a row.  I can't remember when I was out of the house two days in a row, much less 3 days! 

It's a short term program; but I already have an appointment scheduled to start with a therapist, and I know it will be tough going through all the gunk I have kept inside for so many years.  I have always just taken medications without therapy.  I feel very positive I have taken the steps to get the help I really need.  I still haven't decided about Christmas, but I think by the end of the week, I will know what to do.

Wish me luck!

Suz

 

Two days in a row I left my apartment! That's an all-time record for me! In all the years I've had depression and anxiety, I have never gone to therapy. I guess I expected medication would perform miracles. I finally got it through my thick head, it wasn't working.

We don't have the day program on weekends, and I was very tempted to go to my safe place on the sofa and withdraw, but I've managed to talk on the phone and stay on the computer today.

I know it's going to be long and tough; I have 30 some years of gunk I've pushed down inside me. But at least I have HOPE, which I haven't had for many years.

Thanks for your encouraging words! If we encourage and support each other, I think we can do amazing things.

Suz

Thanks! This forum was really got me to thinking about all my problems, and the ability to do something. I hope it helps you as much as me!

Suz

Thanks. I don't have the high that I did, so I'm struggling, but I knew it would be tough. It's so easy to withdraw into my shell.

Susan