Can isolation trigger depression?

[Gameface]

Hi,

I'm new here and new to depression  I was diagnosed last October after the first gp I visited simply told me exercise was the best anti depressant as she handed me a tissue and showed me the door.

Once I was properly diagnosed I was put on meds and after two weeks I began feeling 'normal' again. 

Everything has been going great until this week. I returned to work after a wonderful holiday with my family. 

Working for a small company in an admin/sales role I found myself alone this week as all the other employees were away and my depression returned. 

I haven't skipped a dose of my meds but I felt how I did when it all began. Crying at my desk and watching the clock. 

I removed myself from social media and my social life as well. A few close friends have tried to reach out but I just want to be left alone?

My gp is on leave so I'm just reaching out here. Is it possible the isolation has triggered my relapse?

I have been looking for new employment but it's very hard when I'm struggling just to get out of bed each day.

Thanks for listening!

[PatT]

Hi gameface,

Yes, isolation can absolutely trigger depression and it's often one of the most common accompaniments of depression in a cyclical sense; isolation works as a symptom and precursor of depression. It sounds like you're just stuck in a rut at the moment with post-holiday blues, isolation at work and your GP being away but take some comfort in the fact that these circumstances are only temporary. Your colleagues will return, so will your GP. Resuming life again after a holiday always brings me down but I know that once I get back into a good rhythm then everything starts to even itself out again.

I would recommend trying to break the isolation you're experiencing by contacting those friends that you've avoided and get into other things that can help your mental state like exercise, yoga, meditation etc. Personally, isolation is a big trigger for me and I'm more or less going through a big bout of it at the moment (girlfriend overseas for 5 weeks) but I've been making more of an effort to see friends and keep myself occupied. What you're experiencing will pass.

All the best,

Pat.

[Gameface]

Thank you Pat. 

Before starting this job I quite enjoyed my own company and I feel very silly and selfish for having these feelings. 

I thought being on meds my depression was under control.

[geoff]

dear Gameface, welcome to BB and thanks for reaching out to us.

It's a double sided sword depression, because being isolated can definitely bring on this illness, but when you are depressed all you want to do is be alone.

Even though we take antidepressants (AD) so our depression is held at bay, it still won't stop us from having a relapse and how long this will last.

I believe I have overcome depression but I have had many relapses, but with me I know that it will only last a few days, however with other people this can be different.

Just realise that this may only last until other people come back from their holidays, but when they do return it could be a few days before you begin to feel better, however as you have said try and find a job where you feel comfortable.

Every time we fall back into depression, especially after we have been able to cope, we learn a lesson, one which will always be a reminder later on down the track. Geoff.

[MisterM]

Hi Gameface,

Absolutely yes.
My psychologist kept telling me I need to have a healthy social life to build up a buffer against depression. I always feel better after socialising.
I only have one friend, when I don't see him I feel very alone and afraid.

[pipsy]

Hi Gameface.  Depression causes isolation, causes depression.  It's a vicious cycle.  When you're depressed, quite often you don't want others around, at the same time you do, to help 'lift you up'.  You're on meds, but have that 'hollow, alone' feeling.  At the moment you feel more alone because everyone is away, including your G.P.  You feel as though you're on a desert island.  Once your colleagues rejoin you, you'll probably start to feel better about yourself.  I would suggest, however, as soon as your G.P returns go and see him/her for a review of your meds.  It could be they're not strong enough, or perhaps you need a supplement.   I would hold off looking for another job until you're feeling more positive.  Not saying don't look, just now might be the wrong time. 

Take care.  Try and see your G.P a.s.a.p.