First of all, you are not a fraud. It says a lot about your character when you can help others even when you are struggling with your own demons. I find it admirable, not fraudulent.
The weather and holidays effect so many of us. I have a lot more depression when the cold sets in and the holiday's get closer. I'm glad you shared your fears and thoughts with us. It's OKAY to be vulnerable, especially with people that truly understand. You are doing the right thing by staying busy and active, that's the best thing you can do for yourself, other than trust that you will not lose all the progress you have gained. Hugs GB

For me, the more I tried to keep myself from sinking back into a severe depression, the worse it got. Trying to replicate what we did when we were happy is sometimes a burden that just makes matters worse. I was able to find a little comfort in repeating the Serenity Prayer, which was not a panacea, but it was a baby step toward my recovery.

Keep up the good fight. :)

Hey sweetie.

First of all I want to ditto what GB said. You coming here offering support and encouragement when you are struggling yourself just shows what a kind, caring compassionate person you are. I know that you are because you are a wonderful friend to me. Please don't ever feel like you can't post about your struggles and ask for support, that's what this site is for and you need not EVER feel bad for asking for support.

I'm sorry that you are feeling so bad . I do know that for alot of us, the shorter days ( getting dark so early ) and colder weather with the change of seasons makes us more depressed. It sucks I know.

Since I've met you here you have come so so far and accomplished so much and you know how very proud I am of you. Do you think maybe part of your feelings are because you are anxious about registering for classes next week? I know that you are disappointed you have to wait and the waiting is hard, especially if you are afraid you won't get the classes/schedule you want. ( I hope I didn't just say too much ). You are doing your best, I know you are, and that's all you can do , right? You're making so many positive changes and I don't want you to start thinking that you are going to lose all of the momentum you have gained and have going. I understand those nagging negative thoughts and feelings that creep in but I know how strong you are even if you might not feel it right now. Be kind to yourself and try to focus on all of the progress you've made, okay? I hope you feel better soon. Love you sweetie ~

((((((((((( COMFORTING HUGS ))))))))))))))

LMT

Thank you all for your lovely replies. I enjoy hearing from others. :)

I was pretty down and discouraged last night and told myself I was not going to volunteer this morning, but in the end I did it and felt good.

LMT, I think my classes play a role. I think in general I let myself get overwhelmed thinking of the upcoming week with the classes thing and the cancer screening. :( I am also allowing myself to get too negative about the shorter days/winter.