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BeyondBlue Hello! Read this if you're not sure how to get started
  • replies: 0

Welcome This section of the Beyond Blue Forums is for talking about our experiences with depression. There are lots of chats about how it makes us feel, what it’s like to live with depression and what has worked to help in these times. Thank you for ... View more

Welcome This section of the Beyond Blue Forums is for talking about our experiences with depression. There are lots of chats about how it makes us feel, what it’s like to live with depression and what has worked to help in these times. Thank you for coming this far, we know it can be really hard to take these steps if depression is in your life - we see you and think this is a great step. To get the most out of this space we have a few tips: Get involved. The Forums work best for you when you get active and post where you can. Now, we know that can be really hard, especially when you are experiencing depression. So, if you can post something supportive to someone else here, that would be an incredible start. Speak from the heart. This community wants to know how YOU feel and what has worked for YOU. We trust that you have something unique to say and we can’t wait to hear it. Check in. Lots of the discussions in this section of the Forums have been going for years and they are some of the richest conversations we have. Keep checking in to get new ideas and offer your support. We know it can be tough to start, but when you are ready we want to hear your thoughts. If you need some time to get to know the community, that's okay! Have a look around and see where you want to get involved. Thank you for being here! Beyond Blue

Jeriava How do I talk to my doctor?
  • replies: 9

I’ve been struggling with my life for the past 7-8 years but I finally made an appointment with a doctor. I feel really scared though because I don’t ever go to the doctor for anything, and I havent seen this doctor for so many years that I’m really ... View more

I’ve been struggling with my life for the past 7-8 years but I finally made an appointment with a doctor. I feel really scared though because I don’t ever go to the doctor for anything, and I havent seen this doctor for so many years that I’m really scared that they’ll judge me or won’t believe anything I say. I’m really anti social so I feel like I won’t be able to say what I wanna say or I’ll say the wrong thing causing them to just dismiss me and move me along without helping. I’m just tired of feeling alone, depressed and just worthless but I’m really scared to talk to them.

AGrace SELF HELP TIPS FOR MANAGING DEPRESSION
  • replies: 132

Hi Everyone, Here are some ideas you might like to try for managing symptoms of depression. Of course everyone's different, so let us know what works for you, and please feel free to add to the list... Mindfulness – through breathing or engaging the ... View more

Hi Everyone, Here are some ideas you might like to try for managing symptoms of depression. Of course everyone's different, so let us know what works for you, and please feel free to add to the list... Mindfulness – through breathing or engaging the 5 senses Distress Tolerance – Accepting Emotions and Self Soothing Distraction – Put the thoughts/feelings aside and come back to them when you are ready to deal with them Positive Affirmations – Have some affirmations written down repeat them to yourself daily Sleep/Exercise/Diet – All 3 aspects of our lifestyle can impact the way we think/feel Increasing Pleasurable Activities – Engage in at least one pleasurable activity per day

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Allenm How does everyone cope?
  • replies: 2

For the last few months I've been struggling to look even my own family in the eye. I am terrified of getting out of bed and cry myself to sleep almost every night at the sheer horror waiting for me the next day. I am unemployed and have been jobsear... View more

For the last few months I've been struggling to look even my own family in the eye. I am terrified of getting out of bed and cry myself to sleep almost every night at the sheer horror waiting for me the next day. I am unemployed and have been jobsearching for over a year when I found the reason I haven't gotten a job is because my father in law (first reference on my resume) has been telling the whole town not to hire me. I feel worthless, I want to make a difference in my life, I want to change. I have been trying to call about about getting a diploma done, but every time I start to dial a number into my phone I freeze up. I just want to know what to do, I'll do anything, I just want it all to be over whatever it takes

viper57 frightened while waiting for help
  • replies: 2

What do I do while waiting for help with my depression its so hard where we are went to the big hospital 2 hours away no help there I feel they dont care

What do I do while waiting for help with my depression its so hard where we are went to the big hospital 2 hours away no help there I feel they dont care

Gina_xo Depressed but no one believes me
  • replies: 3

I have known for sometime that I have swings of depression... it is not the constant kind... there are weeks I am fine and then like a car crash, it just hits me out of no where and I feel like I can't do anything to get out of it... When these swing... View more

I have known for sometime that I have swings of depression... it is not the constant kind... there are weeks I am fine and then like a car crash, it just hits me out of no where and I feel like I can't do anything to get out of it... When these swings happen, they can sometimes have a triggering event or like I said come out of nowhere. When I do have these episodes, I tend to have feelings of being trapped, anxiousness and sadness. I have this feeling like there is this heavy pain in my chest where the only way i can release it is bycutting it open.. I sometimes wish i could erase myself or sometimes even just die. The thing is I would never kill myself though but i do fantasise about getting seriously sick or just disappearing when I am at my worst. So yes, I know I have a problem, but when I go to my fiancé and tell him (which is not easy) he dismisses it and does not take me seriously which makes me feel even worse. My fiancé is the best person in the world, caring, loving the best I could ask for and we tell each other everything. Which is why I was ok in sharing this with him... but the few times i did i got this reaction.I feel horrible when this happens, like a stab in the heart. And then I get angry and take it out in some other way. I am not sure what to do? beyondblue’s clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636. Normal 0 false false false EN-AU X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi; mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}

vip Choosing who you real friends are
  • replies: 1

Hello people you know what I did I joined facebook for 11months I really really wanted to see what people think of the real me. So many people friended me even ones I didn't know . Wow how exciting mainly I found out they disliked me they knew about ... View more

Hello people you know what I did I joined facebook for 11months I really really wanted to see what people think of the real me. So many people friended me even ones I didn't know . Wow how exciting mainly I found out they disliked me they knew about what I did and their perception of me was not what I thought it was. Really I am shy, not very loud, funny at times, emotional , passionate, caring , love helping others. Their perception tarty., big mouth, know all, loves herself haha that's ok all my links were fake like top designer brands ect ect some of the sports , all those countries I have travelled too man ive only been to goldcoast ive never been to Europe with what money????? Myself and my husband have basically just worked took quick trips down south pay our bills pay our mortgage we have no expectations on our son . I put there that I see him playing for a top international league team as if ??? haha he can do what he wants im not a parent that puts any pressure on . Now people these people are coming too me with all my quotes all my sayings think they know my business they don't. I hate facebook I really hope this is all closed down one day it is absolutely ridiculous to post up family photos photos of children this is all asking for trouble really. Look I have 2 friends I can really trust and 1 brother who is bloody incredible in my heart that's it really I know hey I wrote I cant drink too. I can people I know how to stop im not an excessive drinker now all eyes were on my when I went out lastnight I drank 1 in front of my spys and then later had another 4 when they left Im one cool cat and one smart cookie . I need this research people for the book I will write titiled MY BATTLE WITH DEPRESSION This disease has taught me to enjoy 1 day at a time and to enjoy the small things like a simple hello from a stranger or just waking up in the morning seeing the sunshine or just seeing my son laugh honestly I live in the real world in not a dreamer im not a celebrity im just a realist who drives her husband absolutely crazy at times haha

viper57 stress help
  • replies: 9

I am struggling with stress, depression, panics attacks since moving to another state thought it would be great now the bubble has burst I dont want to be where I am now living everyday tasks are so hard I am now talking pills to try and help dont kn... View more

I am struggling with stress, depression, panics attacks since moving to another state thought it would be great now the bubble has burst I dont want to be where I am now living everyday tasks are so hard I am now talking pills to try and help dont know how to cope till house is sold again feel so alone

pulsar Hello beyondblue.
  • replies: 2

This is my story. Perhaps it will resonate with someone, helping them to realize that they are not alone. Perhaps someone will be able to shed some light on my situation, giving me a fresh perspective and hope.I am a 34 year old male who suffers from... View more

This is my story. Perhaps it will resonate with someone, helping them to realize that they are not alone. Perhaps someone will be able to shed some light on my situation, giving me a fresh perspective and hope.I am a 34 year old male who suffers from depression. I have been receiving treatment these last 4 years, although my depression goes back as far as I can remember. I suppose that the stigma of having a mental illness kept me from seeking treatment earlier in life. This "stigma" is still an issue for me, not because I judge other people; but because I judge myself. I was in a relationship with a woman whosuffered from extreme anxiety and depression, she later became my wife. Her anxiety attacks were frequent and debilitating. Almost every night she would have a panic attack and ask me to take her to the hospital. We both knew that it would generally recede before we ever reached the emergency unit, however going through this process seamed to help. Maybe it was simply the thought that someone cared and was going to take care of her that alleviated the anxiety, or perhaps it was simply a matter of enough time passing. I spent several years encouraging her to seek help and eventually she did. There was a marked improvement as far as the panic attacks were concerned although her depression never really left. Towards the end of our marriage, we have been separated for three years now, my own depression seemed to increase. There were a number of factors that contributed to this; the suicide of a close friend, the terminal illness of a family member, my feeling that my wife and I were both withdrawing and drifting apart. I believe that what had helped to keep me focused and able to work and function was the notion that I needed to be strong for her sake. I know now that one cannot make someone happy, happiness is a personal journey, and something that needs to come from within. My own people pleasing behavior was never going to result in my own happiness either. It became apparent to me then that if I did not get some help that I would eventually kill myself. What price misery? I am running out of characters so I had better come to some sort of point.The last few years have been a dizzying merry go round of medication and therapy, so far nothing seems to stick. I am currently undergoing a protracted period of extreme depression, over two months. In this period I have lost my apartment and my job, because I have not gone to work. Losing all hope.beyondblue's clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636.

Lucylou Feeling lonely, sad and isolated
  • replies: 46

I'm 62 and most of my life I have been caring for people. My 1st daughter was born with Cerebral Palsy and I cared for her at home for almost 30 years. I had 2 other daughters who are fine. I have been through a divorce which was my choice. My brothe... View more

I'm 62 and most of my life I have been caring for people. My 1st daughter was born with Cerebral Palsy and I cared for her at home for almost 30 years. I had 2 other daughters who are fine. I have been through a divorce which was my choice. My brother and only sibling passed away at 42 from a heart attack. I cared for my Dad who had lung cancer and was beside him in hospital when he passed. I then cared for my Mum who had Alzhiemers Disease until she passed. I also suffer from Fibromyalgia and in constant pain. In 2008 my daughter became very ill and was put on life support. After talking to doctors and specialists my ex and myself were advised us to turn off the life support....she calmly passed away going on 5 years next month.I live near my 2 daughters who are both married; one has 3 children who are 17, 13 and eleven but because of her circumstances I haven't had a lot to do with my grandchildren. I feel I am a stranger to them.My youngest daughter is my rock and has just found out she is pregnant which I am over the moon about. It may seem strange to some but I am closer to this daughter than the other. But I think sometimes she gets sick of me. I live by myself apart from my 2 dogs and 4 cats and have no friends; I say hello to the neighbours but I don't like socialising or going out. sometimes I can't even be bothered talking on the phone yet in saying this I feel so lonely and isolated. Does that make sense? Am I playing the victim? Am I feeling sorry for myself?I have been on several antidepressants over the years and currently have been on the only one that seems to work for 5-6 years now. I have seen a Psychiatrist after my daughter passed away and then a psychologist....that was about 4 years ago. Some days are good but mostly I feel I don't want to be here any more. I shouldn't feel this way especially with a new grand child on the way.I hope my story makes some sense because at the moment I'm feeling lost and sad. Beyondblue’s clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636.

Struggletown Long term battle
  • replies: 4

I have battled depression for as long as I can remember. I have tried many antidepressants that have had no effect.2years ago ,out of desperation my girlfriend had me admitted to hospital.i saw a few physiatrists and the only real answer I got was mo... View more

I have battled depression for as long as I can remember. I have tried many antidepressants that have had no effect.2years ago ,out of desperation my girlfriend had me admitted to hospital.i saw a few physiatrists and the only real answer I got was more antidepressants.Last year I became worse,overwhelming negative thoughts,never a day that I'm not angry or depressed so I had a mental health team visit me.they have diagnosed me with dysthymia and have told me that my only solution is cognitive therapy and there is no magic pill.Ihave finally taken myself off antidepressants which was the hardest thing I've ever had too do.I have had lots of sessions with a phycoligist but I don't really see any improvement in my condition. I am at a point now where I had to quit my job as I just can't face the day and have lost my relationship as I'm just unbearable to be around..Is there any solution to this misery I call life

in-it-for-the-long-haul When Can I Finally Be Free For Good?
  • replies: 5

Hello, My name is A,I was officially diagnosed with depression 8 months or so ago. After almost half of a year in University, and countless days where I wondering what was wrong with my head, I finally decided to do something about it. I saw a psychi... View more

Hello, My name is A,I was officially diagnosed with depression 8 months or so ago. After almost half of a year in University, and countless days where I wondering what was wrong with my head, I finally decided to do something about it. I saw a psychiatrist, and I told him how I would spend full days in bed, not leaving for even a shower. I could barley eat, and I felt like with every beat my heart took, black tar was coming through my veins. I had spent nights curled up on my closet floor in agony and anxiety. I had self harmed countless times. I had written over and over again the dark thoughts racing through my mind.Naturally, medication was subscribed, and I was battling the depression, the worry, the new news of what was wrong all on my own. Only a number of days after beginning my medication I had gotten so out of control that I felt I had no choice but toend my life because of the pain that seemed it would loom forever unless dealt with. I made an attempt one night, my roommate had come in without me even noticing. I spent that entire night in a hospital, completely alone, without sleeping a wink. After that things all went uphill. It was my lowest point. My parents were contacted by my roommate of my condition. They were finally able to support me. I was put on proper medication, and things took a while, but I began feeling like myself again. Days still came along however that I could feel the depression slowly creep up again and try to get a hold of me. I felt like I was swimming in pool, and I could stand up most of the time, but then some days the sun would hide, the clouds would come and it would pour. I'd start to drown. Sometimes this would last a number of days and I feel like I can't catch a breath. It's been 8 months that i've been properly medicated. 8 months that I've did everything I was supposed to. The thing is, Depression is still there, hidden under pharmaceuticals. It's dormant most days but I can't shake it. My question is when will the time come in my life that I can finally be free of this demon once and for all? When will I be able to breath, all day every day. When can I stop relying on pills to be happy. When can I be happy for real? On my own. Will I ever be able to get rid of this horrible part of myself? Will I ever be able to forget what happened that one night. beyondblue’s clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636.