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New here......struggling to function

Sadsmile
Community Member

Hi ive suffered on and off with depression for years but its back with a vengeance right now. Im weepy constantly, struggling to cope with mundane daily tasks and been told by my employer that if i dont work full time i will lose my job (they dont know about the depression yet, ive got other physical issues ive told them about)

im a mess in front of my children and im isolating myself in a panic and cant face work tomorrow. Help me 

3 Replies 3

white knight
Community Champion
Community Champion

Hi Sadsmile welcome to Beyond Blue forums

You have some apprehension anxiety too worrying about tomorrow.

In my opinion there are several basic living issues that one should re-evaluate to help with depression.

Environment- if living in the city consider a move to the country. For some this means mess traffic, less fines, less worry and simple pleasures like having your own chooks.

Finances- set goals to rid yourself of high debt (for some moving out to the country or downsizing.

Work- a goal should be set to work part time. People with depression often underestimate its seriousness and when feeling better they forget how bad it is when it returns.

Toxic people- get rid of them if they place a load on you. No matter who they are.

Care- make sure you regularly visit your doctor- keep them up to date

Medication- dont stop it at will. work as a team with your doctor.

Time out- recognise that your mind needs rest.

Cycles- we now know that when you are in a depressive cycle its best to allow it to run its term and not fight it. Sure attend work and take thing slowly. You will soon feel better as the cycle begins to fade. Then take on some goals. Until then dont expect too much of yourself.

Your children are growing up with a depressed mum. That's not ideal. Ask your doctor to review your medication etc.

Tony WK

White_Rose
Champion Alumni
Champion Alumni

Dear Sadsmile

Good to hear from you and welcome.

I would like to clarify a couple of things with you if I can. Are you currently working full time? Do you want to change to part time permanently or just until you become well again? I suggest you discuss this with your GP before doing anything else.

In the past when the depression has returned, how did you manage? Did you see a counsellor or psychologist? What strategies did you have in place. Sorry about the third degree. I am wondering how you can help yourself again using lessons from the past.

Do you have any support from other people? You do not mention a partner so I presume there is no one. What about family and friends? It is so hard when you are on your own and even more so when children are involved.

Tony WK has made a number of suggestions and observations which would be great to take on board. Some of these are long term but can be thought about now. Meanwhile start the immediate steps. A visit to your GP and perhaps a referral to a psychologist. Ask your family, if possible to help with the child care. Perhaps someone can take them out at times if they are young, and let you get some rest.

The first step is always the hardest but once taken has started you on the road again. I will not write much at the moment. Post in again and tell us more about yourself.

Mary

 

Chris_B
Blue Voices Member
Blue Voices Member

Hi Sadsmile, welcome to the forums. Please remember our support service is available 24 hours if you are struggling and need to talk with a professional straightaway - the number is 1300 22 4636.

Regarding your work situation, we have some resources below which will assist you in talking to your employer:

Talking about a mental health condition at work

Working with a mental health condition

Staying mentally healthy at work