Depression Support Group
Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.
Hey...don't mean to sound like a whiner but I'm really starting to get down about Thanksgiving this year. I'm divorced, two grown daughters, one of them semi estranged. I am a good cook and have usually done the cooking on the big holidays for a pretty large family, but since the divorce five years ago, things have changed.
I'm very traditional and have great memories of the holidays growing up and during my married life but this year, my one brother is going out of town to visit my sis in Oklahoma, and my other brother is working, meaning his wife and sons will be staying close to home. That's nine people who won't be around.
My older daughter wants to visit, but she will already have eaten at my ex's place earlier, so it would be a long drive for her for a second meal of the same food. I could get a few "orphans" together for a meal, but my heart isn't really in it.
How can I fire up for next week, or do you think I should just say, "screw it" and work a homeless shelter or sleep in or something? Anyone else facing the same? Maybe we can cook something up on DS? I don't want to sit around feeling sorry for myself on Thanksgiving. I'd hate that.
Thanks, and sorry if I sound like "Doug and Wendy Whiner". I'm really down about it this year though.
I'm very traditional and have great memories of the holidays growing up and during my married life but this year, my one brother is going out of town to visit my sis in Oklahoma, and my other brother is working, meaning his wife and sons will be staying close to home. That's nine people who won't be around.
My older daughter wants to visit, but she will already have eaten at my ex's place earlier, so it would be a long drive for her for a second meal of the same food. I could get a few "orphans" together for a meal, but my heart isn't really in it.
How can I fire up for next week, or do you think I should just say, "screw it" and work a homeless shelter or sleep in or something? Anyone else facing the same? Maybe we can cook something up on DS? I don't want to sit around feeling sorry for myself on Thanksgiving. I'd hate that.
Thanks, and sorry if I sound like "Doug and Wendy Whiner". I'm really down about it this year though.
deleted_user
you're handsome...wit a face like that u hav to cheer up
deleted_user
I also value tradition, I can get really upset when things change because family is very important, particularly during the holidays. We dont do thanksgiving over here, so I'm not really sure I can relate to it, but if you feel a sense of achievement in cooking and providing a meal thats what you should do. It may help you to feel better if you give some time to a soup kitchen, or invite friends over for lunch. Do you know anyone who may also be feeling lonely and without family? Don't let a change in traditional plans ruin festivities for you, I hope you are still able to enjoy the meaning of thanksgiving.
deleted_user
I cant sort of understand where your coming from. Im a young exchange student living in the UK at the moment and I will have no family at Christmas time. I think that it would be great to make yourself busy during thanksgiving. Like you said, go help out at a kitchen or something similar. I know that I have been looking for work over christmas simply because i dont want to think about not having family around during this time. It is often very hard to think about going through a period like this, but im sure it wont be like this for you every year. So maybe make this year to help others like you said. Best of luck.
ChicagoDave
Thanks Rinoa, but you can do a lot with Photoshop software! I actually look like Lord Voldimort with hair and a longer nose. Tricky - I do know people who are going to be alone, but still am not too psyched about cooking...maybe I'm just not feeling the energy right now. Mia - thanks. yeah, it'll be tough for you, too, but the UK and London in particular is a marvelous place around the holidays. As an exchange student, it should still be exciting for you. thanks all so far.
deleted_user
*hugs* take it easy on yourself... how about something with some friends who are available... potluck style?
deleted_user
I can relate. Altho I have been divorced for 10 years now, I still had the kids nearby for a few years. Now they have ther own lives, daughter and grandaughter have movved several states away. I decided to move to my sons area this summer hoping to ease my lonely, depressed days by being closer and hopefully getting together more often as a family. Well, it seems that he and his fiance are going to CT for Thanksgiving this year to visit her father and his girlfriend for dinner.As an afterthought they have asked me to tag along - by their invitation, not the host. Not sure what I will do...
ChicagoDave
13blues - the potluck thing is actually a pretty good idea, but once I get cooking, I can handle the menu. If someone wants to bring dessert and someone else wine, I'm good to go. ljh - if the offer was sincere, I'd go for it. Otherwise you're sitting around feeling sorry like I might be doing - that just doesn't sound right. Either that, or maybe some activity to keep your mind on others instead of yourself? That's kind of where I'm at at this point, unless I get a better idea or offer. thanks again all so far
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theatre and I are there already. I'm having a very berry tea with crackers, cheese and cherry tomatoes and she's having a joint with some beer and we're both on really comfy recliners on thick pile carpet. we need some help with the decor if anyone is around??
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I'm trying to exercise daily. I was doing fairly well until I sprained my ankle 2 weeks ago but now I'm getting back on the horse. Today I walked over a mile with my arm weights that are about 22lbs total. I was out of shape and it was hard on my arms. I also did my 30 situps. I'm also going to drink a lot of water and try to eat healthy. I do tend to have a sweet tooth but I'm cutting...
