Over 80 and very depressed.

[Misery]

I have had anxiety and depression for many years. I spent some time in hospital and had shock treatment which helped a little. I got over that lot, but since, I have felt anxious on and off. I have been on the same medication since the hospital visit which was 14 years ago. Before Christmas last year I collapsed twice and was taken to hospital both times where I was eventually taken off my blood pressure medication. Since then I have suffered severely with depression and have been trying to seek professional help. Everything seems to be taking so long and I need the help right now. We had another great grandson yesterday and I can't even get motivated to go and see him let alone be happy about him being born. If only I could sleep all day and forget about everything. I don't feel like anyone understands how I feel. I'm not sure what to do, anyone?

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.

[Pixie15]

Hi Misery,

Sounds like you have been having a difficult time. I don't know if I have seen a post from someone over 80 on the BB here before. 

I am a little uncertain what sort of help you think you need and am wondering what support you have been getting. Have you or your doctor been in touch with ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team). This is a government service which can get you access to a lot of different services. Someone will visit you in your home to do the assessment. My mother had it done.

Hope you get to enjoy some time with your new great grandchild.

Grateful.

[geoff]

dear Misery, doesn't sound nice to call you that, because your a lovely lady who can use the computer, well that's a great achievement, ut first of all can I give you a warm welcome to the site.

Goodness me when I was a young kid and my grandma was in her 80's it seemed to be so old, but now I am approaching your age, and a lot of people I visit are your age so now it doesn't seem to be old.

Sorry slight digression, but I am concerned for you because your medication may need a review or at least increasing, plus I hope that you are back on a change of blood pressure tablets, because we know how serious this is if your not taking them.

The biggest problem that is seen from people who post is that 'their psych is booked out for another month or so', that's good for them, but not for those who need the help so desperately, so how you tried these support phone numbers,it means that you have to repeat what you say everytime or as Grafeful has mentioned the ACAT team.

Sorry I haven't been much help to you, but I will think about another solution to help you. L Geoff. x

[ciantar]

Hi Misery

I am so sad to hear you are so depressed. Have you told your doctor or anyone in the family, how bad you are feeling. If you have not think about it, is there anyone in the family you are particularly close to they might get things moving to help.

I have had depression for 30 years since my second daughter's birth.

I have learnt to cope with it, but some days are very hard.

If you ever feel like just chatting I would be more then happy to chat.

You will be in my  prayers

[Adea]

Hi , I have an 88 year old mum so understand how getting older plus life's past challenges can make you feel like. Not sure if you've managed to get help since January but one thing which may help us hooking into someone popping round regularly to provide support-I know in part it works for my mum.

It's important that you eat well and keep connected with people - would be happy to help talk to you online if that helps

keep strong and well- you're a success for getting to where you are now amidst his you feel- plus I'm impressed with your online skills- go sister!!!!

adea

[malvina]

I am over 80 too Misery, new to this forum and suffered depression all my life.

We should have some chats.  I will post to the moderator a tip for you

[Illythian]

Hi Misery

First, you need to start calling yourself Funster NOT Misery.  That means you actually must force yourself to have fun.

Start by smiling at everyone you see and asking them about THEIR day.

Second, find a perfume or flowers you love and place them where you can smell them all day.

Third, lie still and listen to your breathing while trying to relax your whole body.

Fourth, eat something you love and take quite a while to do this.  Savour every mouthful.

Fifth, start high-fiving everyone while smiling.

Sixth, be sure to sit outside in the garden and drink in the sights and sounds of nature.

 These activities are guaranteed to cancel out your gremlins and replace them with good fairies.

Cheers

Illythian

[geoff]

dear Misery, it's been awhile since you have posted and there are kind people who would like to see how you are going, and please remember that your age means nothing to when it comes to depression, because we care for anyone whois suffering from depression, sure circumstances maybe different, but some of us can relate to how you feel.

I truly hope that you can get back to us. L Geoff. x