Posted by Terry on March 9, 1999, at 14:11:02
In reply to I need support...., posted by JennyAnn on March 8, 1999, at 20:27:16
JA -- I answered your previous message about antidepressants. Depression (and manic depression, which I have) are stigmatizing illnesses, as you say. I try to look at my disorder as a biological one that requires medication, just as a diabetic needs insulin. I try not to place a value judgement on it. IN a world where mental illness is equated with evil, weakness, and other unfair analogies, it's difficult to think that way. I've also found that I have to be my own instigator with my doctor to find the best medication for me. This isn't easy in managed care, when you have limited visits, 15-minute visits, etc. I finally found a good psychiatrist who isn't threatened by my asking questions and telling him when I think a change in medication is needed. If he disagrees with me, he explains why. It's made all the difference in the world to me. I don't feel so hopeless when I hit a rough spot (which I recently did) because I know I can see my doctor and try to get my medications straightened out. It's not an easy process because I have to change medications (or doses) several times a year to stay on somewhat of an even keel. Support groups help too. You might try contacting your local chapter of the National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association (NDMDA) for support groups in your area. I don't have their number, but you can find it on the Internet. It's anonymous and no one is going to judge you there. I was in bad shape when I was diagnosed and I am living a reasonably "normal" life at this point. Good luck, and don't lose hope!
> I just left one message, but am compelled to leave another... as a young woman who has suffered with depression for almost thirty years, I am realizing how isolated I am...there are still some parts of me that believe that I should be able to make myself better, decipher this complicated hopelessness, and understand it away.... (i work in the mental health field). I have a lot of shame about acknowledging my depression. I feel sad and alone...sounds cliche but it is so tangible....
> JA
poster:Terry
thread:3499
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990301/msgs/3521.html