Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

I have been seeing a Licensed social worker for 3 yrs now. It was before the RA and for other reasons but the depression was severe. I have been on many anti depressants and they did not work until now. I am on cymbalta and I feel as if I am coming alive again.
My therapist is the best. She has helped me with so many things. I think it is worth it to see someone. They give you a different perspective and help you to deal with things. I hope you feel better soon.

Jan

RA causes depression in 95% of people who get it, at least initially. It is because of pain and because your life has been stolen, or at least radically altered. It is a chronic illness, and adjustment doesn't happen overnight.

I think you need to get on meds that work, and then you won't be in pain and get your life back. It you need a psychiatrist, then go for it. I had one for 5 years who did nothing about my RA. He treated my depression symptoms, and gave me 5 meds which basically suppressed the symptoms of prednisone. I should have gotten off the prednisone, and got on other meds. But docs don't like to tell you what to do with other specialties. So just beware. If you had the depression before RA, then you need help. You may even need help now. But try and get the RA under control first, and you will be surprised at how much better your mental outlook becomes.

Hi Jenn,
I suffered severe and complicated clinical depression four years ago, well before my RA diagnosis (just this time last year) and I truly feel for you - that first year of D. was the worst of my many years on this earth. I am sure the fact that I was already on antidepressants helped to deal better with the RA diagnosis.
I do agree with Angela. If your PCP is treating your D, I would suggest getting a referral to a psychiatrist as they should be the experts in medication and therapy help. My pdoc and Rheumy and PCP all keep each other informed.
Getting your RA under control will be a big help but are you aware that several RA drugs can tip you into Depression as a side affect and perhaps this is happening with you.
Be gentle on yourself - I can understand perfectly that you don't want to go to the the deep, black hole of D again - I don't either.
If you want to, feel free to PM me. I've been where you're heading. Love and hugs

Ok, the counselor in me is coming out now....Spent 6 yrs undergrad studying counseling and addictions and now I have 2 years left of grad school then I will be a Mental Health Counselor.

I ABSOLUTELY think that seeking therapy is beneficial. If you go and are not getting what you want, change therapists! You don't always click with everyone out there. Depression is a very very serious disease and when you throw in RA that is kicking your butt, the depression can really spin out of control and suicide can creep into your thoughts.

I have known far too many people, young kids to older adults who have ended their lives. It's such a loss for everyone who knows them. Your family, children, and friends need you!

I am a huge proponent of counseling. I have never been formally diagnosed with depression, but I definitely had all the hallmark signs when I was first diagnosed with RA. Poor sleep, poor concentration, snapping at my loved ones, etc. I sought out a psychologist who specializes in helping people manage chronic illnesses. I don't always talk directly about pain- in fact, that's kind of rare. Instead, I talk about fear a lot- my fears for the future, my fear about how being in pain all the time is altering my personality, my fear that I won't be able to maintain my work schedule, etc. Talking it out with her has made a huge difference for me. I hope it helps for you. It certainly doesn't hurt to try

Jenn -

Go with what you feel is right. Taking care of your whole being is important. You are a great person with lots to give to us here and at home!

Will pray for you! Hugs

Sorry to hear you are at a rough spot. Sometimes the pain you will discuss is so much more than the physical.

Some times psychotherapy is most appropriate. I was seeing a social worker several years ago and was surprised to learn just what was at the bottom of my depression. This was going on when I was in my 40's. What was interesting was that I discovered that I had never went through the grieving process of losing my father... he passed away when I was a child of 9 years old. Anyway... things are not always as they appear and you may find it to be helpful, if not to resolve issues, but to understand where it may be coming from.

Not revealing this for comment, please... not sure how else to put it without being personal.

I sought a therapist this year and was very shocked to find a most unhelpful one whose premise was that we bring everything to ourselves, insinuating that my RA was somehow my fault. So, you win some you lose some. Don't settle for a bad therapist.

Anti-depressant medications are so important to assist with imbalances, it is just so important to get one that is right for you.

Here in your corner for you! -daizy8

Hang in there, I to have started counseling, with a pain management therapist. the 1st one went real good, I did a lot of crying, but I think it will be very helpful. we go through a lot. it's a heavy burden us RAer have. everything we do takes thought and energy.
so keep us posted and ill do the same
hugs and keep your chin up

How can someone who is suffering physical pain not be depressed? My first priority if I were you would be to get my RA under control...Once things are somewhat under control and possibly even before it, therapy would be a great idea...It worked for me (not because of RA but for other life crises) and it will work for you. In the meantime, try to be kind on yourself. At least accept that you have a right to be sad. In fact, it is the most natural thing to feel...I hope you find relief soon.

Prayers sent your way! A good counselor would be a great place to vent all the stuff you try to protect your family from. God Bless!