Depression

[Guest guest]

Jo and others,

Depression is real. I know, I've been there. No matter what

the " cause " , I hope you will understand that there are some very

helpful medications to get you through the rough times. That is what

they are for.

Depression for me was mostly brought on by situations I could not

change, and I was not able to accept the situation.

But then I have had " clinical depressions " where there was no

specific 'situation' to account for. At these times, not only did I

have a complete blood count done, but from that my Internist

discovered I was low in B vitamins and also my thyroid was out of

whack.

Secondly, you're at a 'stage' in life where menopause may be playing

a factor, hormonal changes also cause wicked mood swings. The year my

mother was so ill, I swear even I couldn't keep up with my own mood

swings. lol.

Some supplements may cause medications to be inneffective, so if you

do start an anti-depressant medication, you may want to have your

chemist/pharmacist cross-check what supplements you take along with

the depression medication. I learned that Valerian, Kava, and St.

's Wort cause depression medications to work less.

Either or mentioned being good to yourself. I

wholeheartedly support this. If it is still grey and rainy in London,

go out and find the brightest bunch of flowers you can afford and uy

them! Even if it is not raining, do it! Flowers are a real upper, at

least for me - even in a depression.

Also, while in a depression, try to focus only on what's right in

front of you to do. Do not plan your whole life out - it is too easy

to fall deeper into 'stinking thinking'.

Your 3 months in Brazil were good for you, seeing family, doctors,

speaking the language. Now, back in London, give yourself time to re-

orient yourself to your 'neighborhood'. Remember, you've lived there

25 years!

While I support your work at the gym, you may want to take it easier

with your workouts, just temporarily. Your body needs time to adjust

also. Maybe still go as often, just cut your workout in 1/2. You'll

still get good effects, and your body can know it can take it a bit

easier. If I can find my " Just for Today " inspiration, I'll post it.

Perhaps following this may help.

Finally, know that even though you cannot see the light at the end of

the tunnel now, it IS there!

~ Gretchen