how long suffering with depression?

[bb]

ive had it best part of 13 years, really not sure if it will ever go away.  Ive had to make adjustments to my day to day living , this year has been the worst.  Alcohol really makes it worse for the following day too.  Should I just accept its for life? Sometimes even now I seem to be in denial and riddled with guilt.  Its the "invisible" part of it, almost like I dont think people believe me or understand?

[bookletters]

Well you never know what future treatments scientists are coming up with + once you have found a medication + counselling that suits you I am sure you will be able to have a happy life with depression not bothering you too much / too often.
Alcohol will really stop your treatment working properly though please do try to look after yourself!! xx

[Zaf]

Looking back at my life I've had depression on and off since the early 70's and more seriously after a big breakdown in the early 90's, I've at last started to feel I might be able to keep it away most of the future but am very aware a big life event might trigger another serious episode

Z xxx

[bb]

It's like it's waiting to rear it's ugly head again x

[dave208]

When Ive sat down and thought about it I think Ive been suffering on and off since I left School 1988 roughly, but because of a number of family issues that took there toll on me I only got diagnosed about a year ago.

[Zaf]

It's like it's waiting to rear it's ugly head again x

I'm afraid so

[bb]

Dave I've found this forum fantastic , your never alone x

[dave208]

Hi bb I agree Ive only been a member of this forum for a short time and have found it to be a great help already. Its great if you need to chat to someone get something of your chest or discuss any other depression related matters I can't recommend this forum enough.

[bookletters]

True, it is good!
With regards depression, I try to tell myself:

- I am really lucky to be able to have access to medication. Without it, I would not be functioning. I am grateful for each day I manage to enjoy. 60 years ago, I would never have okay days at all and depression would last for years instead of months!
- 350 million people suffer from depression in the world. That means, huge market for the pharmaceutical industry and huge potential profit for private companies. This is much better than if we suffered from a very rare illness for which very little funds were available.... Hence for depression, the pharmaceutical industry spending millions to find treatment more effective than their competitors! If in December, Naurex announces they can alleviate depression in hours instead of weeks, it basically means jackpot for them. So, we're not the only ones to want better treatments and scientists are working on it!
- The feeling of starting to come out of depression is worth all the suffering that's come before.
- This forum shows that others will always be there to share their experience and try to help you.

[bb]

I'm guessing your in your 60's , sorry if I'm wrong. I'm just probably expecting too much, but then again my doctors did think I'd be off tablets in 6 months and I'd be sorted, that's not the case. Also my energy levels have been heavily effected , long term

[Zaf]

My GP has always told me not to expect a decent amount of improvement before 12 months have elapsed and in my case he is right :0(

Z xx

[bb]

Think I've got to deal with the reality it's not short term and stop fighting it x

[Zaf]

For me its a more a case learning to live with it with the occasional fight against it

Z xxx

[bb]

So true Zaf x

[Beetzart]

I have had recurrent depression since I was 18 so 16 years.  I don't think though I have ever been 'well' and even during the better times I still struggle.