Apologies when I say go down that path.... I mean I want to try talking therapy first. I know how tough this is on your mind.

You need antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors to treat gastritis, not anti-depressants. You need to see your doctor again. Perhaps you have not understood the diagnosis, so talk to your doctor again.

Hi. They took biopsy so waiting for those results

Meanwhile the symptoms have have lead me to feel very down.

I'm in pain and discomfort most of the time.

VT86, I have chronic health issues (different than yours) and they definitely can trigger depression and anxiety.

The uncertainty of not knowing day to day if I'll be healthy enough to function and complete basic tasks can be pretty overwhelming. It can also be pretty isolating socially too - lots of people don't understand what it's like to be sick all the time or to have unpredictable flare ups.

The mind and body are connected, and you're wise to treat both the physical and mental aspects of your health.

There's nothing wrong with trying talk therapy first if your hesitant about trying medications. Talk therapy is very helpful in managing day to day life with an illness and can provide lots of coping skills that can ease depression and anxiety.

Medication is just a tool like anything else - therapy, meditation, yoga, etc...and it will be available to you down the road if you decide you need it.

Wishing you all the best <3

Thanks sonny.

Yes you have articulated very well how I am feeling. And the isolation is awful

Wish you all the best too.

Yes, the isolation of health issues coupled with the pandemic is not easy. I have found that it's easier to find active support groups for my specific health issues on Facebook if that's available to you.

Daily Strength has a more 'homey' vibe and lots of supportive groups and also some fun groups related to TV Shows, cooking, and even just friendship in general which I truly enjoy, but when it comes to disease management and getting practical help with my illness, I have found there is more available on FB.

Also, if you are looking for peer support for depression, NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) has free Zoom support groups right now several times per day. They are general help for depression and pretty much anything that is bothering you in the 'here and now' I used to go to an in-person group, but have been attending the Zoom support groups throughout the pandemic and have found them helpful because you get some contact with other people who are struggling as well. If you're interested just go to the NAMI website. You can call or email for a list of daily support groups in your area - they are offered by state.

I'm glad you reached out here and hope to see more of your posts :)