Hi all, first time user here

[Nat1905]

I was diagnosed with depression 2 years ago by my local GP due to stress & anxiety. I sought help after a few months & saw a psychologist but I didn’t return after the first session (just a tad expensive). My anxiety gets triggered off easily & I can be really good one day & then a mess for weeks on end. Today is a not so great day.

My partner has been telling me for a while now that I need to exercise. I know this will somewhat help me, especially to shed a few Kgs, but I just don’t have the drive & motivation anymore to do anything that I once loved & enjoyed doing. He told me (in the nicest way possible), that if I want to be with him for many years to come, if I don’t exercise now, I will end up getting cardiovascular disease or diabetes. The truth is, he correct.
Today I admitted to him that I have no motivation because I have depression. First time I have actually said it out loud. First time I have properly acknowledged that I am suffering with it. That’s a step in the right direction right?

There are many things that have contributed to my depression. Main one I don’t want to mention. Not til I’m ready.

I am reaching out to others for support & help. To know that I’m not alone & that there is light at the end of my tunnel

[Matchy69]

Hi Nat and welcome to the forumsThis is great place to get advice and have someone listen and non judgemental.

Can you get mental health care plan from your doctor as it wont cost anything for psychologist if you get a referral done this way i think.I have depression,anxiety and panic attacks.You are right the first step is to admit you have a problem and to share that with your partner is a huge step and i hope you both can work together to get you feeling better.You can share as little or much as you like on these forums,there are people here who care.

Take care,

Mark.

[Croix]

Dear Nat1905 (with a wave to Matchy69)

Welcome here. There are many who have had to live wiht depression and as Mark above says admitting it to yourself is the first step, as it is with any illness. I can very much understand htat lack of motivation, and not really caring about consequences.

I found I was unable to improve until I had competent medical help, and you have had an unfortunate experience. Psychologists can indeed be expensive, even with a Mental Health Plan as that only covers you for the standard fee for 6 or 10 sessions per year, and many psychologists charge a gap fee, which can be quite hefty.

Leaving aside the cost, the relationship between you and the therapist has to 'click'. Without that going though the motions probably won't help as much.

Can I suggest you go back to your GP and explain the cost factor and how you are at the moment? Maybe there is a bulk-billing psychologist you can relate to.

Your husband sounds understanding and is right about exercise, which has helped me when depression is bad, as well as being good for physical health. Is there any chance you can exercise together, even if only going for a walk and talking or listening to earbuds?

You are always welcome here, and there is no need for you to mention anything you don't wish, it's fine.

Croix