Creating a support network - what has worked for you?

[gloria10]

I have realized lately that I have been dealing with depression and the reason is due to the fact that my support network has diminished.  My friend went overseas and that was hard since our friendship was improving.  Then there were issues with my parents and I felt that my mum has pulled away as my emotional support as I feel I disappointed her. Now if I say I have depression she thinks its best if I deal with it on my own, I can't do that.  I also can't live up to their expectations when I have limited support from them.

As a bit if a turn around for me I have started to look for a positive support network and I am looking at how others may have managed this. Is it through doctors, friends, family?  What has worked best?

I am trying different activities to mingle with a variety of people and that does help. I am seeing my GP tomorrow and a therapist, also reaching out to Beyond Blue 🙂 

Any advice would be appreciated 🙂

[BeBrave95]

I suffered from anxiety quite severely two years ago but managed to overcome it by visiting a psychologist weekly for a few months, learning the strategies I needed to combat it. However, in the past couple of weeks my best friend moved to Melbourne, work has been full on and I have felt disconnected from my family and friends. I don't discuss my anxiety with my parents as it always ends in an argument. I have started seeing my psychologist again for extra support, seeing more of my friends and exercising daily. I try to swim twice a week and walk my dog daily, it gets me out of the house and into the fresh air.  Remember that you aren't alone, seek professional help and stay healthy. You have taken the first step, you are strong, keep on going! 🙂

[White_Rose]

Hello Gloria

Support is, as we all know,essential to our well-being. I think it's important to acknowledge that we need support even if there is nothing wrong with us. Humans need other humans because we are social creatures. I say this, although it appears to be obvious, because when we have depression or whatever, there is often a tendency not to make friends or develop a network of support because we "ought" to manage on our own or with the support of psych or similar.

It's a very common attitude in depression as many people feel they are not good enough or don't deserve to have friends. So it's really great that you recognise the need for support and you are setting about developing your network.

I have several friends I can vent to. They don't say "there, there then" for which I am grateful. They just listen, pop in the occasional question and wait until I am all talked out. My doctor is a great support also. There are various support groups around. I have not been a member of one of these groups but I understand many people find them helpful.

Mary

[blondguy]

Good Morning Gloria, Paul here

Love your attitude healthy and inspirational! Therapist....GP! You are doing well...very pro-active!

Friends are a huge help...'venting' can be such a powerful and positive part of recovery.

My GP is a part of my support network...Two close friends...and the legend members of BB

I too have a diminished social circle Gloria. So now I consider myself very fortunate to have 3 people...I am content with that and it works too...Its not the quantity so much....its the quality..

Mary....several friends...you are indeed fortunate 🙂 I envy you

BEBRAVE: Excellent idea with the weekly visit to your psychologist helping you overcome the anxiety! Spread that around in here if you wish...It worked a gem for me too...and Welcome to BB too:-)

Sorry to butt in there Gloria...I think what you are doing is terrific

I hope your day is good to you

Paul