depression

[anonymous]

my last visit to the clinic my doc. thought i was a bit down and thought maybe i should talk to someone. Also gave me a prisciption for zolof. I don't know if taking another drug is the right thing at this point. I mean w/ all the other pills already taking i dont wanna add to the load you know. anyone think taking these pills has help them feel mor up when they have times of feeling down. Hav anyone done counseling also?. Is this worth persuing? help

22f w/ cf

 

[anonymous]

my last visit to the clinic my doc. thought i was a bit down and thought maybe i should talk to someone. Also gave me a prisciption for zolof. I don't know if taking another drug is the right thing at this point. I mean w/ all the other pills already taking i dont wanna add to the load you know. anyone think taking these pills has help them feel mor up when they have times of feeling down. Hav anyone done counseling also?. Is this worth persuing? help

22f w/ cf

 

[anonymous]

Hi there
First off, don't let this stress you out too much, depression is probably a lot more common amongst those of us with a chronic illness than you may realise. It's tough dealing with our lot in life and it is very natural that at times in your life, it's all gonna seem a bit much and start to get you down. Things can and will improve again, these things tend to go in cycles.

I have done extensive therapy with a clinical psychologist to deal with issues indirectly related to CF - e.g. lack of self esteem (it's damned hard to feel sexy and desirable sometimes when you have a constantly sick body) and a fear of striving for too much in life or aiming too high - because deep down I wonder is it worth the effort - will i ever reap the rewards of my hard work? etc etc. I would imagine these are both issues a lot of us CFers struggle with on occasion, if not constantly and i'm sure there are many many more.

Although i will be honest, i really didn't enjoy going to this person every week and having to talk and talk about it - but it definitely DID help and as a result i have been able to turn my attitude around 180 degrees in some areas of life. I highly recommend it.

Anti-depressants, hell yes, been there too, more than once and am currently on them. I don't concern my self with the fact that it's yet another pill, but then, i take no regular medication except enzymes anyway. I can relate to this concern for you though, but for the difference it will make to your life, i would say it's well worth it.

I can't comment on Zoloft, being from NZ, our drugs are totally different over here. What i do know, is that i've tried a couple of different ones, only one of which i actually like. So try a few until you find one that makes you feel closer to how you would actually LIKE to feel. Don't give up if the first one doesn't agree with you, there are many options. And obviously always double check with the doctor prescribing these, that he is aware of all the other drugs you are on and is happy they can be taken together ok.

The way I see it, we have more than enough to deal with on a day to day basis and life is too damned short to go around feeling miserable all the time, if there are relatively easy ways to combat this depression and enjoy more what time we have in this life.

Best of luck to you and keep us posted on how you are going. You can always come here and vent, chat, look for support, you are not alone. Big Hugs. <now if you'll excuse me, my charming cat has just brought me a RAT and is beginning to consume it, head first, right next to my chair!! > <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-disgusted.gif" border="0">

 

[anonymous]

Hi there
First off, don't let this stress you out too much, depression is probably a lot more common amongst those of us with a chronic illness than you may realise. It's tough dealing with our lot in life and it is very natural that at times in your life, it's all gonna seem a bit much and start to get you down. Things can and will improve again, these things tend to go in cycles.

I have done extensive therapy with a clinical psychologist to deal with issues indirectly related to CF - e.g. lack of self esteem (it's damned hard to feel sexy and desirable sometimes when you have a constantly sick body) and a fear of striving for too much in life or aiming too high - because deep down I wonder is it worth the effort - will i ever reap the rewards of my hard work? etc etc. I would imagine these are both issues a lot of us CFers struggle with on occasion, if not constantly and i'm sure there are many many more.

Although i will be honest, i really didn't enjoy going to this person every week and having to talk and talk about it - but it definitely DID help and as a result i have been able to turn my attitude around 180 degrees in some areas of life. I highly recommend it.

Anti-depressants, hell yes, been there too, more than once and am currently on them. I don't concern my self with the fact that it's yet another pill, but then, i take no regular medication except enzymes anyway. I can relate to this concern for you though, but for the difference it will make to your life, i would say it's well worth it.

I can't comment on Zoloft, being from NZ, our drugs are totally different over here. What i do know, is that i've tried a couple of different ones, only one of which i actually like. So try a few until you find one that makes you feel closer to how you would actually LIKE to feel. Don't give up if the first one doesn't agree with you, there are many options. And obviously always double check with the doctor prescribing these, that he is aware of all the other drugs you are on and is happy they can be taken together ok.

The way I see it, we have more than enough to deal with on a day to day basis and life is too damned short to go around feeling miserable all the time, if there are relatively easy ways to combat this depression and enjoy more what time we have in this life.

Best of luck to you and keep us posted on how you are going. You can always come here and vent, chat, look for support, you are not alone. Big Hugs. <now if you'll excuse me, my charming cat has just brought me a RAT and is beginning to consume it, head first, right next to my chair!! > <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-disgusted.gif" border="0">

 

[anonymous]

hmmm, that 'disgusted' face wasn't directed at you - i'm new to all this emoticon stuff, can ya tell??!! I had typed in a comment about my cat and the lovely rat he had just brought in to me and was starting to consume head first right next to my chair......THEN i put the disgusted face in, but the comment disappeard and the disgusted face stayed!! Sorry

Its Kat by the way and that was me last time too (37 with CF, from NZ) - i really must get a log on!!

 

[anonymous]

hmmm, that 'disgusted' face wasn't directed at you - i'm new to all this emoticon stuff, can ya tell??!! I had typed in a comment about my cat and the lovely rat he had just brought in to me and was starting to consume head first right next to my chair......THEN i put the disgusted face in, but the comment disappeard and the disgusted face stayed!! Sorry

Its Kat by the way and that was me last time too (37 with CF, from NZ) - i really must get a log on!!

 

[JBUCCA]

SINCE I CAN REMEMBER I HAVE BEEN BATTLING DEPRESSION AND SEVERE PANIC ATTANKS , ANXIETY, SINCE MY FIRST NEAR DEATH TIME, I WAS 21 MOVED OUT W/ MY BOYFRIEND NOW HUSBAND, DIDNT TAKE AS GOOD CARE OF MYSELF CAUSE I THOUGHT I WAS OK, I DRANK, SMOKED!!! YA I KNOW JUST PARTYED AND PRETENDED I WAS NORMAL! WELL IT LASTED 1 MONTH. I GOT THE WORT LUNG INFECTION AND HAD TO BE ON IV FOR THE 1ST TIME IN MY LIFE!!!! AFTER THAT I TAKE GREAT CARE OF MYSELF AND STILL HAVE UPS AND DOWNS BUT I FELT LIKE I WAS DYING!!!! I MEAN I COULDNT EVEN WALK W/ OUT GASPING FOR AIR!!!! I GOT THROUGH IT AND GOT BETTER BUT THE PANIC KICK IN SO I TAKE EFFXOR AND XANAX AND I SWEAR I WILL NEVER GO NOWHERE W/ OUT THEM... THEY ARE MY HAPPY PILLS FOR LIFE!!! IT HELPS ME DEAL W/ MY CF LIFE AND WHAT EVER ELSE!!! THOSE PILLS ARE THE LAST TO BE WORRIED ABOUT,

 

[JBUCCA]

SINCE I CAN REMEMBER I HAVE BEEN BATTLING DEPRESSION AND SEVERE PANIC ATTANKS , ANXIETY, SINCE MY FIRST NEAR DEATH TIME, I WAS 21 MOVED OUT W/ MY BOYFRIEND NOW HUSBAND, DIDNT TAKE AS GOOD CARE OF MYSELF CAUSE I THOUGHT I WAS OK, I DRANK, SMOKED!!! YA I KNOW JUST PARTYED AND PRETENDED I WAS NORMAL! WELL IT LASTED 1 MONTH. I GOT THE WORT LUNG INFECTION AND HAD TO BE ON IV FOR THE 1ST TIME IN MY LIFE!!!! AFTER THAT I TAKE GREAT CARE OF MYSELF AND STILL HAVE UPS AND DOWNS BUT I FELT LIKE I WAS DYING!!!! I MEAN I COULDNT EVEN WALK W/ OUT GASPING FOR AIR!!!! I GOT THROUGH IT AND GOT BETTER BUT THE PANIC KICK IN SO I TAKE EFFXOR AND XANAX AND I SWEAR I WILL NEVER GO NOWHERE W/ OUT THEM... THEY ARE MY HAPPY PILLS FOR LIFE!!! IT HELPS ME DEAL W/ MY CF LIFE AND WHAT EVER ELSE!!! THOSE PILLS ARE THE LAST TO BE WORRIED ABOUT,

 

[anonymous]

HI,

My heart goes out to you. I've been dealing with depression for a long time too. Related to my illness, but also past sexual abuse. I started having panic attacks when I was 18. They were very severe, to the point that I would actually black out and fall on the floor. I remeber when I was engaged and registering at Macy's, I was having a great time! We were picking out china, and I guess I blacked out, fell, and dropped a plate on the floor!

I had no idea what was happening to me, I actually thought I might have heart problems, or diabetes. Then, I was told they were panic attacks. I started psychotherapy 2 years ago. It can be intesnse at times, but overall has changed my life. I have a such a deeper understanding of myself, who I am, why things happened to me, acceptance.
I've also learned through it that depression with chronic illness is very common, and you are NOT alone! You are not crazy!

This peace has also affected my physical health positivley. My CF is much more stable, b/c I am more peaceful, I sleep better, ect.

If this is a phase-which is possible- I wouldn't worry, it may pass. But, if it gets to the point where basic everyday things are being affected, I'd get help.

Maybe at least trying talkng to a counselor, therapist, phsychaitrist. Perhaps trying it just once could give you a feel for it, and if it's right for you.

One thing's for sure, chronic depression definately affects physical health and well being. Living with CF, we can't afford that.

Best to you,

Christian

 

[anonymous]

HI,

My heart goes out to you. I've been dealing with depression for a long time too. Related to my illness, but also past sexual abuse. I started having panic attacks when I was 18. They were very severe, to the point that I would actually black out and fall on the floor. I remeber when I was engaged and registering at Macy's, I was having a great time! We were picking out china, and I guess I blacked out, fell, and dropped a plate on the floor!

I had no idea what was happening to me, I actually thought I might have heart problems, or diabetes. Then, I was told they were panic attacks. I started psychotherapy 2 years ago. It can be intesnse at times, but overall has changed my life. I have a such a deeper understanding of myself, who I am, why things happened to me, acceptance.
I've also learned through it that depression with chronic illness is very common, and you are NOT alone! You are not crazy!

This peace has also affected my physical health positivley. My CF is much more stable, b/c I am more peaceful, I sleep better, ect.

If this is a phase-which is possible- I wouldn't worry, it may pass. But, if it gets to the point where basic everyday things are being affected, I'd get help.

Maybe at least trying talkng to a counselor, therapist, phsychaitrist. Perhaps trying it just once could give you a feel for it, and if it's right for you.

One thing's for sure, chronic depression definately affects physical health and well being. Living with CF, we can't afford that.

Best to you,

Christian

 

[anonymous]

I have been on and off anti depressants for most of my life. partly cause of depression but mostly because of anxiety attacks. I need to say this though. Anti depressants were the worst thing in the world. Sure they masked the pain of the anxiety/depression, but in turn gave me many side effects. Not everyone suffers from side effects, but alot do. I had insomnia which in my opinion is worse than any anxiety I could take. Sexual side effects, and just numbness like no emotions. Then after another hospital admission, I was upset as usual for having to take another admission, and again my doctor recommended me to the psych and they wanted to put me on more antidepressants. Well i had been going through college for psychology at this time and opted for an option of CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy) which for those who dont know is therapy through mental practice, no meds. You try to catch symptoms of anxiety or depression and deal with it with your own will. For example, I have a surreal fear of flying where I had to be medicated to get on planes, and even thinking of it makes me sweat and shake a lil, but I think to myself, how often do planes crash, compared to how many flights take off every second, the chances are slim to none. therefore I shouldnt stress over it as much as I do. Its just ways of talking yourself down. Another way to help with depression and anxiety is to get out, have fun, take up something your really interested in focussng on. I found the CBT really helped me in many areas, you can use it as practice on almost any situation. Im just against anti depressants, they mess with your brain chem, and can make you more depressed even suicidal after coming off them. Do your research if you chose to go on them, they arent nice things.

Chad 29 m w/cf(-)

 

[anonymous]

I have been on and off anti depressants for most of my life. partly cause of depression but mostly because of anxiety attacks. I need to say this though. Anti depressants were the worst thing in the world. Sure they masked the pain of the anxiety/depression, but in turn gave me many side effects. Not everyone suffers from side effects, but alot do. I had insomnia which in my opinion is worse than any anxiety I could take. Sexual side effects, and just numbness like no emotions. Then after another hospital admission, I was upset as usual for having to take another admission, and again my doctor recommended me to the psych and they wanted to put me on more antidepressants. Well i had been going through college for psychology at this time and opted for an option of CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy) which for those who dont know is therapy through mental practice, no meds. You try to catch symptoms of anxiety or depression and deal with it with your own will. For example, I have a surreal fear of flying where I had to be medicated to get on planes, and even thinking of it makes me sweat and shake a lil, but I think to myself, how often do planes crash, compared to how many flights take off every second, the chances are slim to none. therefore I shouldnt stress over it as much as I do. Its just ways of talking yourself down. Another way to help with depression and anxiety is to get out, have fun, take up something your really interested in focussng on. I found the CBT really helped me in many areas, you can use it as practice on almost any situation. Im just against anti depressants, they mess with your brain chem, and can make you more depressed even suicidal after coming off them. Do your research if you chose to go on them, they arent nice things.

Chad 29 m w/cf(-)

 

[anonymous]

Docs just want to prescribe another pill, I don't blame them, it's what they're trained to do. However, the way I look at is, this is my life- I have CF and that's sucks-there aren't enough pills out there to change that. So I had better learn to live and function and even find happiness in spite of that fact. I'm not anti-anxiety pills or anti-depressants in general, but I think they should be used to get through things, not as a permanant solution. If your CF is at the root of your feeling depressed I think some of the alternate methods of coping would probably be worth learning (talking yourself through it, getting out and finding things you enjoy, leaning on others a little more) beacuse the CF is permanent (and isn't that just ducky).


and ...*warning personal opinion, no offense intended to anyone*...I wouldn't want to be on mood altering medication for the rest of my forseeable future.

Debbie
26 wcf
aka littledebbie (still hasn't logged in today)

 

[anonymous]

Docs just want to prescribe another pill, I don't blame them, it's what they're trained to do. However, the way I look at is, this is my life- I have CF and that's sucks-there aren't enough pills out there to change that. So I had better learn to live and function and even find happiness in spite of that fact. I'm not anti-anxiety pills or anti-depressants in general, but I think they should be used to get through things, not as a permanant solution. If your CF is at the root of your feeling depressed I think some of the alternate methods of coping would probably be worth learning (talking yourself through it, getting out and finding things you enjoy, leaning on others a little more) beacuse the CF is permanent (and isn't that just ducky).


and ...*warning personal opinion, no offense intended to anyone*...I wouldn't want to be on mood altering medication for the rest of my forseeable future.

Debbie
26 wcf
aka littledebbie (still hasn't logged in today)

 

[anonymous]

While I agree that obviously pills can have bad side effects, and are no 'cure', it should be noted that in SOME cases they are neccesary.
Depression, if diagnosed properly, is an illness, and if you are very depressed, they may be neccesary.
I only say that b/c I personally have 2 relatives, one with clinical depression, and the other with bipolar disorder. They choose not to take their meds b/c of the side effects, and this has virtually ruined their and their families lives.

There is no easy way out, whether you choose meds, therapy, or a combination of both.

I don't mean to offend anyone by saying this, I just know first hand the bad effects of not taking medication when you've been diagnosed with severe emotional problems, and are suggested to take meds for it.

Best to you again,

Christian

 

[anonymous]

While I agree that obviously pills can have bad side effects, and are no 'cure', it should be noted that in SOME cases they are neccesary.
Depression, if diagnosed properly, is an illness, and if you are very depressed, they may be neccesary.
I only say that b/c I personally have 2 relatives, one with clinical depression, and the other with bipolar disorder. They choose not to take their meds b/c of the side effects, and this has virtually ruined their and their families lives.

There is no easy way out, whether you choose meds, therapy, or a combination of both.

I don't mean to offend anyone by saying this, I just know first hand the bad effects of not taking medication when you've been diagnosed with severe emotional problems, and are suggested to take meds for it.

Best to you again,

Christian

 

[anonymous]

IF you decide not to take the anti-depressant I would seek alternative therapy such as described above. Get involved in a work out program try yoga, meditation but make a commitment to yourself. that would be part of your therapy.

There is a Wonderful Book called "Energy Medicine" by Donna Eden (innersource.net) This book has loads of self help therapy techniques that you can do for yourself. I had severe panic attacks when I waited for my transplants and this book really helped me. I was able to get rid of the panic attacks without medications. When the "call" came, I was no longer in the panic mode. I could not believe it.

IF you buy the book read all about "Triple Warmer" great for anyone with cF or any kind of illness or just for people who want to feel better.

Risa

 

[anonymous]

IF you decide not to take the anti-depressant I would seek alternative therapy such as described above. Get involved in a work out program try yoga, meditation but make a commitment to yourself. that would be part of your therapy.

There is a Wonderful Book called "Energy Medicine" by Donna Eden (innersource.net) This book has loads of self help therapy techniques that you can do for yourself. I had severe panic attacks when I waited for my transplants and this book really helped me. I was able to get rid of the panic attacks without medications. When the "call" came, I was no longer in the panic mode. I could not believe it.

IF you buy the book read all about "Triple Warmer" great for anyone with cF or any kind of illness or just for people who want to feel better.

Risa

 

[anonymous]

I agree that some anti-depressents, etc., are completely necessary for some people. I would just caution that you make sure you really need them first. Maybe try other alternatives first, like therapy, if thats an option. Often once you are on anti-depressants it is hard to come off them. They certainly might be the right choice for you, but just be sure of it first, and try some other options.

Caitlin

 

[anonymous]

I agree that some anti-depressents, etc., are completely necessary for some people. I would just caution that you make sure you really need them first. Maybe try other alternatives first, like therapy, if thats an option. Often once you are on anti-depressants it is hard to come off them. They certainly might be the right choice for you, but just be sure of it first, and try some other options.

Caitlin