Dysthymia

[Hopefullseeking]

Hi All, long time no posts.

I have seen a psychiatrist for 20 odd years, now only 3 monthly. Seen psychologist for about 5 years on mental health plan. Still see both.

l have had Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, etc,nearly all my life, am 60ish. Can’t beat it, omg have l tried, have done everything my psychs suggested and more.

Have osteoarthritis so have pain and physical limits.

It’s the dysthymia that won’t go away and l fight it everyday. I’m tired off it. Made huge steps towards recovery last year so expected 2020 to be a better year and disappointed as it’s not. The dysthymia seems to be getting the better of me.

Does it ever go away, I am medicated but still struggle.

???

[MissBenthos]

I can relate so much to how hard changing medication is. I stayed on one for years just for the benefit of it getting rid of insomnia, the idea of changing with the possibility of it being worse was terrifying. That adds another layer of sucking when you have to consider other conditions.

Is covering up the depression something you want to continue with? You do have the option to be open with some people you trust.

[Hopefullseeking]

Hi MissBenthos,

I will be seeing my psychologist tomorrow so l will discuss with her the change in medication. Taking this step is huge for me but think I need to.

I have always kept my private life to myself. I was sexually abused by my brother growing up and none knew it was going on. I was always the quiet shy one and it was only when I went into therapy as an adult did I tell my mother, my father had died a few years before.

Keeping my mental health issues to myself stops the stigma which I have felt many times. I tell people when I feel safe enough to do so. ‘Don’t want to burden’ people is huge with me. I don’t need anyone’s pity but at times I do need their help and have trouble asking for it.

Sigh!! Sometimes it is easier to say nothing.

[smidgen]

Hi Hopefullseeking, I was wondering if you are still active on this forum as I feel like I can relate to you and I'm wondering how you are feeling now since 2 years have passed.