Don't Give Up. There Is Hope.

If you are suffering from anxiety or depression, don't give up! You've gotten this far in life and you can go all the way if you just keep trying. I had a two year depression wave and I was afraid I'd be in it forever. I went to a therapist, who ended up being such a good fit for me and we're actually "breaking up" (lol) in December because she feels that I'm ready to go it alone now. I'm gonna miss her, but I'm ready.

When I was in the wave, things like taking a shower, combing my hair and just going through the daily motions were so difficult. I worried about everything and felt so overwhelmed. I even "did some time" in the cuckoo's nest (Behavioral Health Unit) and met some interesting characters. One lady, who was schizophrenic thought she knew me and I played along because I saw her get mad at someone and I didn't want to upset her, but she was so kind to me. She inspired me to improve myself and gave me a book of inspirational quotes before I left. Another young man called me a MF-er for not giving him my popsicle, but I just laughed on the inside.

Anyway...I'm also overweight and am seeking the weight loss surgery and they put me on a stimulant called Phentermine that gave me my energy back. I had also been on Anti-psychotics, antidepressants, anti-anxiety meds that helped in their way too, but I had to try different ones and doses before we found the right ones that worked for me. And for now...I'm doing just fine. I've spruced up my home and made my bedroom cozy so I can relax enough to go to sleep. Bought some nice new bedding. Started fixing my hair and dressing nicer again. I even lost 17 lbs so far. I feel pretty good. Hopefully it lasts for a long time, but if it doesn't and another wave hits, I'll know that there is hope and like life itself, it's just a temporary cycle.

Good luck to all of you and may you find happiness in the little things