Does accepting depression help you in your battle?

[alex1973]

I understand this topic has been covered somewhat here recently. I wanted to ask not about accepting depression but once you accepted you had it did it help? I mean by that, once you got medication or counselling or both, or came and joined a depression forum and talked like-minded souls, did it help you in your battle against "blackdog"?

I have a friend who sounds to me as though he is depressed. All the hallmarks of it. When I suggested anti-depressants he barked at me "No way! Never! Not ever!". Those were his words to me. I didnt take offence but I was thinking, maybe he doesnt want to accept he is depressed. I know we covered this subject before but it got me wondering if we are actually in a better position once we accept depression? For all the treatment etc it doesnt mean it goes away or else none of us would be here. Which is a major assumption I know, some people may just use this forum for social reasons after their depression has lifted, or else may come here to offer other support etc.

[Sweetpea]

I do feel that personally for me accepting I had depression has helped me deal with it.  I tried a few times to come off my anti depressants. Each time the depression returned.  Now I accept I need them.  I would rather take my medication and have a life.  I have accepted that I will have bad days and on those days I give in to it and rest.  Whereas early on in my depression I would fight it and carry on.  Having forums such as this means people realize that we are not alone.  It definitely helps me to know others know how I feel.

S x x x x

[Catbrian]

Not all depressives take meds. Some try and decide they're not for them, others simply refuse to go down that road.  Probably most of their opinion is based on stereotypical views on psychiatric medication.

I find it difficult to imagine anyone being in denial about their depression.  For me, the denial was that I need ongoing support for life.  But, how can you possibly deny feeling as bad as we do at times?  It's right in our faces.

I don't think, for most, depression ever goes away.  Sometimes, when we're lucky, it goes into "remission".  Like Shaz says, we need to learn to accept the bad days.  They are not going to change for anything, so it's best to almost relax into the depression....sort of, "let it flow, let it go".

The Forum makes up about 50% of my coping mechanisms.  Even if I'm feeling okay, the posts I read and reply too are contributing to my ongoing stability.

[alex1973]

I think my friend is in denial Cat, I am thinking he is of the opinion that depression is not to be accepted. He seemed very abrupt with me when I suggested anti-depressants. He talked of feeling like he was getting sucked into a black hole. I suggested anti-depressants as I didnt know what else to suggest to him at the time. I know if I suggest counselling I will get the same reaction.

It got me thinking though, am I actually in a better place just because I accept my depression and seek help?

[alex1973]

I think I wanted to help him, I felt abit helpless as what to do. I cant deal effectively with my own depression so I suggested anti-depressants. Maybe the best thing I can do is just listen to him and say "yes I understand those feelings as I have them myself".

[Sweetpea]

I think that's the best thing you can do.  Your friend will know he is not alone in feeling as he does. In time he will hopefully realize he can get help with medication, counselling etc if he needs it.

S x x x x

[Zaf]

Knowing what Im fighting helps a lot

Z xxx

[alex1973]

its not helping me on a day like today, it just is. I cant get rid of it on a day like today.

[Sweetpea]

Some days its very difficult Alex (((( hugs )))).

S x x x x

Sent from my BlackBerry 9300 using Tapatalk

[Catbrian]

Alex.... Some days are very grim, but, on the whole, I would say you are in a good place by accepting your depression and seeking help.  We all need to take our own journey through depression, what's right for me could be totally wrong for you.  I'm sure your friend will find his own "road" and he will one day appreciate you just being there whenever he needed you

I hope tonight is a bit better for you

[alex1973]

better for me now after Jui Jitsu practice, maybe abit sore but thats nothing, a few bruises. Got a shock and upset today thats all. My mate is in a bad place tonight. I just have to be there for him I guess.

Sorry for being selfish yet again and going on about myself.

[alex1973]

going down Brum to visit him on Thurs. I think he needs taking out for a curry at least at a time like this. I owe him a visit

[Sweetpea]

That's a good idea Alex.  Seeing him face to face you will be able to see how he is.

S x x x x

[alex1973]

not so much see how he is, I believe he has got depression but at times like these we need our friends. Might cheer him up for abit. Social connections are very important.

[Sweetpea]

They really are Alex. But I often find that actually seeing someone helps to gauge how they are better.

S x x x x

Sent from my BlackBerry 9300 using Tapatalk