Hi Faith,
Your descript
ion of your life at the moment reminds me of how I was feeling about
three months ago. I lost my sister just over a year ago and I think this triggered my depression. I also have a chronic illness (autoimmune hepatitis) and am reaching the retirement stage of my life which I find quite daunting. Like you, I would sit around doing nothing, crying at anything and everything.
Lexapro has been wonderful. I have been taking it for three months. No more tears. Nothing seems to worry or stress me. While others at work are complaining and stressing, I am now the one with the positive thoughts and comments.
I have also found the books "Beating the Blues" (Tanner & Ball) and "Taming the Black Dog" invaluable.
My doctor recommended an interactive internet program "MoodGym" which I have been working on and have also found this very beneficial.
I am very aware of thinking in a positive manner (I know that's easy while on the medication) and analysing my thoughts when I am down or upset. Working out why I am feeling this way and trying to change my thinking. Sometimes I find myself angry, analysing all the time, constantly thinking "Was that being positive? Was that a negative thought?etc" but I'm sure it's my way of beating this depression. I was always a calm, easy going person and friends and family are very surprised to learn of my depression.
I'm just hoping that when I am done with Lexapro I can cope as weel as I am coping now. My doctor wants me to continue taking it until June. (That will be six months) then gradually wean myself off).
Good luck and take care.
Marg
Post Edited (Marg57) : 3/9/2007 7:30:49 PM (GMT-7)