Posted by akc on December 28, 2001, at 15:57:23
In reply to i feel stupid, posted by ELA on December 28, 2001, at 15:04:16
To start with, you are not being silly, stupid, or anything that those who would try to minimize your illness try to label you as. I especially am saddened that you are not receiving support from your family right now -- it can be such a boost when you need it most.
Not all doctors and nurses minimize what you are going through -- and you need to surround yourself with those who will give you the best support. I do not know your situation that well (such as what flexibility you might have in who you see under your medical plan), but seek out the best care you can find. It is hard sometimes when we are struggling with depression and anxiety to find the energy to switch doctors or seek out a specialist (a psychiatrist), but if you can find the right caregiver, it can make a major difference, both by making sure you are on the right medications and by getting the right assurances and support you deserve.
Your family may need to be educated. There are many resources, some on the net, many can be found at a bookstore. Some of my family members learned a lot just by reading a few books on depression -- the type that mix a person's story with a lot of facts about mental illness. It could be that if your family just learns more about mental illness, they will be more supportive. I hope that is the case.
I'm glad you found us -- I found the board the same way, I stumbled upon it. And have been here several months now. I have made some really close friends. This is a great place.
akc
poster:akc
thread:15975
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20011216/msgs/15976.html