I'm starting to scare myself

[Firebrand]

So a couple days ago i dipped into a pretty bad low (for context i am absolutely depressed and have been on meds for a while now.) and while usually i can push myself out pretty well i woke up one morning at 9:00-ish and found that i was so insanely apathetic it took me until very late afternoon to get up and do anything. i'd never really experienced anything of the sort before and now that i have i worry that's where im headed in the next few months or weeks even. just completely catatonic with apathy. any thoughts?

[startingnew]

Hi and welcome

Well done on reaching out for supports. Depression can be such a roller coaster cant it!

You said youve been on meds for a while now but do you still get reviews by your gp or a psychiatrist (someone who deals with mentla health meds)? Perhaps your medications need adjusting.

Do you have a psychologist to talk to? Meds dont just work on their own so having some supports would be a good idea too.

Do you have family or friends you could talk to as well?

are you still in school? Would speaking to a school counsellor or trusted teacher a good option for you?

please keep taking, we are here and listening.

[Firebrand]

hi and thanks for the reply.

i've been on medication for a while and i havent really noticed any kind of adverse effects one way or another.

im outta home and not in school so not alot of people for me to talk to and the few i do live in close proximity to i dont trust enough to talk about this stuff with.

i would like to get in touch with a psychologist or counsellor but my "motivational issues" are quite crippling.

[startingnew]

Hi and thanks for replying

Im sorry you feel like you dont have anyone. I dont really have anyone either except for here.

Do you have someone monitoring your medications?

Im hearing you on the lack of motivation. It can be sooo hard yeah.

What about making the first step and making an appointment with your gp? He/she can check your medications and give you a refferral to a psychologist all in the one session.

Do you mind if i ask your age? I might be able to reccomend some other services that could help you....

[Firebrand]

allright so for context i have utilised counselling services before. i find starting again so much harder than starting in the first place.

im 18 and very curious what recommendations you could possibly have for me that are age-restricted.

[startingnew]

Hi firebrand

My apologies and thanks for clearing that up.

Have you tried Headspace before? I havent used that service myself as yet but they have gps psychiatrist and psychologist all in one place and im pretty sure they hold group things too but not all focussed on mh. I read one here from a previous member they went to the movies.

Have you used that service before? You can find it through a google search. They can also help you find appropriate services .

And with starting again. You can request your notes from your previous psychologist and give them to your new one to read over and catch up.

Hope this helps

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Fireband,

I’m glad Startingnew has kindly offered some suggestions and support here. The apathy and lack of motivation must be rough, and in particular, that morning you mentioned.

If it helps slightly, I have also had mornings where it was a huge struggle to get out of bed. The kind where I woke up in the early morning but didn’t get out of bed till well into the afternoon. Thankfully I haven’t had too many of those recently but I have had them in the past so I can relate in a way...

I actually quite like Startingnew’s Headspace suggestion, mostly because they have a wide range of services, a good reputation (from what I have heard anyway) and it is free. I know there are other professionals and service providers but they often charge an out-of-pocket expense for counselling, etc.

Kind and caring thoughts,

Pepper

[demonblaster]

Hi Firebrand welcome and well done reaching out like you have ☺

I hear you about starting over with a new psych or counsellor. I'm going to be doing same soon though I'll do it as I know it's too hard to do alone.

Well done that in the past you've managed to lift up, if you can think back how you did that which can be difficult can't it when consumed with darkness it may help you again.

I think it's a good idea but of course your choice seeing another counsellor as there are several ways of coping with depression including meditation distraction mindfullness and the main advantage is having someone you can air it out with who understands and can help you along the way. They might be able to help you join a MH group where people understand and in same position.

I've found walking has been a great release for pain and enjoy being out amongst it, don't know if you excercise and do hear you about motivation though this can free a few demons and being in daylight has a good affect too.

Do you have any hobbies or some music you like listening too. Distraction doesn't fix our problems but gives our minds a temporary break from downs which is needed.

I've heard here of a couple of good meditation apps that might help.

• Smiling minds
• Insight timer

I hope today gives you some change for the better in how you're feeling. It won't always be like this hun, it's within us to find light again. I believe we all have strength.

All best Firebrand. Liking your name btw ☺

🕊