Hi I'm new on here.

Hi Karen!

I've just joined this forum. I am also fighting with depression, but I've learned to manage it. Everything is under control. In time I've learned by myself to treat "depression" as one of my friends... with love and patience... and at the same time, I've learned that the only way to escape from this trap is to re-educate our brain, to have healthy habits and to love ourselves. We are the most important person in our life... if we are ok, in balance... we are also able to help others. 
In time I've learned that there's no perfect life. Everybody have struggles and everybody fights for a better life...we need to get rid of judgements...

I used to go to acupuncture sessions. I had luck to meet an amazing therapist. It was healing! I strongly recommend any kind of alternative/complementary/holistic therapy. 

I am happy that your little friend was there for you! You are not alone!

Hugs,

Andreea

HI .ME TOOX

Andreea is right; by joining this group you are never alone in what you are going through. We all have our own stories to tell and so understand what a dark, lonely ,frightening place commonly known as "depression" can be.

Just over 3 years ago ,I couldn't see any light or hope in my life. My now ex of 30 years who was my "soulmate' committed adultery and I spent the following years coming to terms with what it involved plus more besides. I went through what no one should have to go through . All of a sudden my life was upside down . I was also facing other personal issues.

I can remember someone telling me that in 5 years time, I would be happy and in a good place in my life.

I didn't believe her.

The turning point for me was when I thought how easy it would be to walk out in front of traffic;that was when I acknowledged that I wasn't coping despite all the support from family/friends.

With the help from my GP  [medication ] and a LOT of self help I am in a wonderful place in my life; somewhere were I never thought that I would be. 

It hasn't been easy but it was a path  that I had to take with no short cuts. Yes, I still have low times but who doesn't?

I know that I will never ever be in that ill again. I will/can cope with whatever is thrown at me. 

Learn to be proud of yourself. When I felt stronger I went outside my comfort zone and applied for a job that I had never considered before ; a job that I love, working with adults with learning disabilities and also being a club leader within the organization.

My self esteem was at an all time low. Typically, although I was the innocent party I felt such a failure but in time I realized that I wasn't; he was the failure and blamed me to justify his actions. 

After over 20 years, I have started driving again. The added bonus is that I am in a loving relationship with a wonderful man.

There really is light at the end of the darkest tunnel; but you have to travel through it. 

My tips are ;

Acknowledge, accept and embrace any help 100%

Be gentle on yourself, we are our own worst enemies.

Accept that you will have low days. Tomorrow is another day.

Don't try to look too far ahead, deal with the here and now , the rest will follow.

Take time out for "you", Do things for you, no matter how small.

Push yourself to go out for walks, take time out to notice the flowers instead of the weeds.

For every negative ,look for a positive. There is always a positive to be found.

Eat well.

Talk, talk and talk some more.This is the ideal site to be on as you will never be judged,only supported.

No one knows you on here, plus the support given is from those who have first hand experience .

Always here to chat to anyone; either on the group page or privately.

Little by little , day by day.

Big hugs to anyone struggling.

Julie.