I've been largely missing from Blogland for some time now, though I've continued to visit all my favourite blogs. But I think I'm back now. Fingers crossed. I've pondered long and hard as to whether I should write this blog but decided that too many people keep quiet about their mental problems and that is what allows prejudice to arise and stigma to attach to people with mental problems.
I recently realised that I've become increasingly depressed and anxious over the last year or so and finally decided that I had to do something about it. My doctor referred me to a clinic that specialises in these disorders and I'm about to start on some CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) classes that will hopefully help me to deal with my anxiety problems, which really have been getting me down. The doctor has also given me some anti-depressants, which are now beginning to work, so I'm sleeping much better and also beginning to feel much 'lighter' and more positive.
I've also taken some action myself and joined a yoga class in the village and the Amateur Dramatic group in Wells, where I'm going to be helping with the costumes for this year's pantomime. The amount of exercise I was able to do when we were in Cornwall has convinced me that I'm pretty well physically now, so I need to get out and do a lot more walking or swimming. So I'm going to look for a local walking group.
So, all being well, I'm back and on the road to recovery. Please forgive me if I haven't replied to any comment you have made on my blogs, but I just haven't felt like talking much.
15 comments:
Welcome back Amanda
sending you a big cyber HUG
Dear Amanda, I find it very brave of you to write this on your blog. I am very glad that you are feeling much better now! Walking will definitely be good for your. That is one of the reasons we have a dog. I go for a walk with her every morning for ca. an hour. If I don't do that, my day is usually unbalanced. Glad you're back!
I hope you start feeling better soon! I have battled with depression and anxiety for several years and it is very hard. People just don't understand unless they go throuh it themselves. Hang in there! And it is nice to have you back!
Kristie
Glad you're feeling better - mental illness is no respector of persons or property and draws no distinction between young and old, rich and poor, tall or short. The fact that people can't see it makes it no less real. I wish you well with your continued coping strategy and remember to be kind to yourself
I'm glad you're back. Good on you for feeling confident enough to share how you are feeling. It sounds like you are starting to turn the corner. Enjoy your walking.
Good to hear you are emerging.....I can identify.
Oh sweet lady, so glad to have you back...thanks for sharing the facts with us...sounds like you are getting everything in perspective and moving ahead....which is wonderful.
From purely selfish reasons I'm glad you didn't stop blogging. When I first began blogging you were my first commenter and I look forward to seeing what you are doing(sewing, traveling, your move). Nothing wrong with having these issues, that's why we have physicians and medicines and help. You should be proud of being proactive about your health, seeing the doctor, walking, all so positive. We are who we are and sometimes if we need a little help then so be it. I'm always so impressed with all that you create and I appreciate your blog - it's a bright spot in my busy day.
You are doing all the right things. I have enjoyed following your blog, so I do hope you will continue.
So glad you are back - and good for you to face this and take action! Too many people make excuses and never deal with issues. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
I'm glad to see you back and that you are getting help to feel better. Will keep good thoughts for you and your continued progress.I also enjoy your blog very much so I'm glad you are staying with us.
I am so happy to see you back, Amanda. I thought you just needed some time with family and your own busy schedule. Depression is such a difficult thing. I went through some of it in college and went to see a psychiatrist which helped enormously. I had a friend who suffered for years and then got just the right medication and balance which changed her life around.
I guess it's finding just that right combination of remedies. I've read that blogging is recommended because journaling does not get feedback and support but blogging gets people in touch with each other so we can support each other.
I've heard exercise is especially great, too. Much as I don't like to exercise I admit it makes me feel better.
I'm just glad you're here again, Amanda. Thank you for coming back to us.
As you know Amanda I suffer with depression aswell. My way of coping is to hide on the bad days and then live on the good days. One thing I don't do is apologise for my bad days. You wouldn't expect anyone to apologise for having a cold so I don't see why I should apologise for having a mental issue. Just take each day as it comes and keep attacking
Love and hugs Gina xxx
I am so glad to have you back in blogland. I always look forward to your posts and enjoy being a bloggy friend from the other side of the pond. I am so glad you are on the mend. Speaking from experience, it is really hard sometimes dealing with depression even on medication. I often retreat for awhile, get myself centered again, and get back to the world. I have just realized that it is cyclical and will pass. Sending hugs and strength :)
Hi Amanda. I'm very behind with blog reading and have only just read this post. I'm sorry to hear you have been unwell, I have a friend who had CBT and it helped her a lot.
Exercise is a great mood lifter. I've just come back from the gym and really enjoyed my brisk walk on the walking machine with some favourite music playing on my MP3 player.
Best wishes to you, Maria x
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