In the Depression discussion, a ThirdAger reveals:
"My bout with depression was debilitating. I stopped doing my favorite things (knitting, crocheting, painting and gardening). I didn't want to see people and I didn't want them to see me. It's a wonder I made it through the workday. I spent my time in a darkened house with the blinds drawn and only enough light to keep from tripping over the furniture. I would burst into tears for unknown reasons. I missed so much of life that I can't get back. I wish I'd gone to the doctor sooner. Now I open the windows, taken up my knitting needles and am happy to be alive. With the support of family and friends, I hope never again to see the dark side of depression." -- Sandy55
Readers Respond: Solutions and Support
"I feel like you are talking about me. I am also going through depression. I'm 51 and thought at times it was just [part of] getting older ... other times I just don't know. Do you know what started your depression and did you recognize it right away? I'm taking a mild anti-depressant at bedtime and it seems to help at times. Was there anything other than medication that got you back on track?" -- quietime
"This may sound old-fashioned ... but sometimes a good, hard cry will take away some of my depression -- but not all of it. I also try exercising, biking if weather permits or going on my treadmill and swimming indoors. I have two dogs and they are a great comfort by just giving them a good, strong hug. I tried Prozac for about six months because I was crying all the time and suicidal. You are not alone." -- lau50
Find more support for dealing with depression in this ThirdAge discussion.
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