Depressed and terrified to leave my house

[Cailin]

I’m 60 and have suffered from depression and anxiety most of my life but usually with support I overcome 

This time I haven’t left my house for 10 days, not showered and just eat, sleep or watch tv

i live alone with my beautiful little dog and I feel so bad that I haven’t walked her 

im just locked inside my house and I have to go to the shops by Friday but it feels insurmountable 

I can’t get a gp appointment for 6 weeks and feel so alone and worthless 

[Sadie23]

Hi Cailin.  I'm 62 and have also had depression and anxiety for a very long time.  I also have a beautiful little dog who doesn't get to as many walks as I would like and I feel very guilty about that.  But I am sure that your dog loves you as they are very forgiving.   Can you just do one thing tomorrow. Maybe a shower.  Can the shops do delivery.  Is there someone who can take your dog for a walk.  You are not alone and you are not worthless.  I have felt less alone by reading and responding to your message so Thank you for posting. 

 Regards Helen

[yggdrasil]

Hi Cailin,

Thanks so much for posting on here - I'm sorry to hear you're struggling so much at the moment. I very much agree with Sadie23. It can be very helpful when you get really stuck to focus on the smallest possible step you might take.

Have you tried calling the Beyond Blue support number (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14)? I have called both at different times and found them both helpful. 

Another thing you might investigate is whether there are any anxiety/depression peer support groups in your area. These typically meet regularly (weekly) and can be a great way to get some support between GP/psychologist visits. I attended a support group for years, and they really helped me to feel less alone and weird/broken for going through bad depression. 

Another strategy you might consider is gradually weaning yourself off the TV. I have found when I get very depressed, TV becomes quite addictive. There are so many shows, and the episodic structure can be very addictive. Do you have any other hobbies, like art, or a non-fiction topic? Are you on holiday at the moment? If so, do you think returning to work will help? All the best,

yggdrasil

[Cailin]

Thank you so much Helen 

I have a gp appointment in 3 days and although I’m reluctant I know I need medication as this is no life for me or my dog 

I’m just so exhausted all the time and very isolated but your reply helped 

Thank you 

[Cailin]

Thank you 🙏