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| Mon, 03-22-2004 - 7:48pm |
Hello everybody.
I'm new here and I really need help. I've been suffering from depression for the better part of the past three years. I never know when it will be triggered but when it happens, I fall into deep despair. I feel hopeless, useless, worthless, etc. I've tried to reach out for help, but have been brushed off because people (friends, family) tell me that they don't think I'm the type who gets depressed, or they tell me that I'm being "dramatic", or they tell me to "get over it". I don't know how to let myself open up and ask for help, either, as I feel that I will be a burden to others. Lately, this has begun to affect my relationship with my boyfriend because he wants to try to help me but I can't open up and let him in, I've built up a wall that's so high it's difficult for me to tell anybody anything. I also feel guilty because I don't want to drag my boyfriend "down" into this dark phase with me.
I don't know where to turn for help. I can't afford a therapist as I don't have the money or insurance. What can I do?
I'm sorry if I've rambled on, I'm just having a hard time putting my thoughts into a coherent message.
I'm new here and I really need help. I've been suffering from depression for the better part of the past three years. I never know when it will be triggered but when it happens, I fall into deep despair. I feel hopeless, useless, worthless, etc. I've tried to reach out for help, but have been brushed off because people (friends, family) tell me that they don't think I'm the type who gets depressed, or they tell me that I'm being "dramatic", or they tell me to "get over it". I don't know how to let myself open up and ask for help, either, as I feel that I will be a burden to others. Lately, this has begun to affect my relationship with my boyfriend because he wants to try to help me but I can't open up and let him in, I've built up a wall that's so high it's difficult for me to tell anybody anything. I also feel guilty because I don't want to drag my boyfriend "down" into this dark phase with me.
I don't know where to turn for help. I can't afford a therapist as I don't have the money or insurance. What can I do?
I'm sorry if I've rambled on, I'm just having a hard time putting my thoughts into a coherent message.

Where are you from, if you don't mind me asking. I am from Canada, so things work differently here. I am sure if you are from the US, some of the other ladies here can help.
I have found that people without depression just don't get it. If all it took was for us to get over it, well wouldn't that be nice?!
I have been dealing with depression for as long as I can remember, and I am 25. I remember crying over music when I was five or so. It is a hard thing to deal with.
Don't let people make you scared to talk about depression. It is a disease. If you had diabetes, would they tell you to quit taking your meds or to get over it? Don't put up with it!! You deserve to get all the help you can.
I hope some of the other ladies can help with the cost issues.
Take care sweetie.
Pamela
Welcome to the board.
I totally understand how you feel about ppl not believing you about depression. I also went through that with my family. The trick for me was to totally realize that I was SICK and whether or not anyone believed me, I had the right to feel what I was feeling. If they chose not to believe me, then I would find someone who did. Luckily for me, I have a very understanding hubby who made sure I got into counselling, etc. I think this board is a good place to start, because we all know how it feels. I also think maybe you should check into some sort of assistance in finding counselling. Maybe the state has no or low cost counselling services....check with your local county offices. Also, I know some churches offer counselling services to those who need it. Maybe you could ask around. As far as your difficulty opening up to your bf, if he wants to help, let him. Start out with the small stuff, kind of ease into it. If he remains supporting, then you can get into the tougher stuff.
I hope some of this advice works for you. and remember, you are not alone.
Honey, there has been some wonderful suggestions and support for you.
I know that in my area the county health department has a lot of services for depression, including meds., group therapy and individual therapy.
Also the YWCA in my area offers these services on a sliding scale.
I was seeing a therapist for about six months when my insurance changed and no longer covered therapy so the therapist lowered her fees. Often times if you inform a therapist or doctor that you don't have insurance they will lower their fees.
Good luck!