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.

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omaerdna 07/25/2014

I met w/my therapist today and it was just a total waste of time. Nothing "therapeutic" about it. I wasn't being stubborn, it's just that I don't think she "got" me and had any idea what to do/suggest. She ended up giving me a chapter from one of her books to read (she did this last week and it was like taking Psyche 101!!!!!)

I've been spending a lot of time trying to find somewhere to put my energy. I'm not working right now (reasons for that, too long to share...), and definitely need to be engaged in some sort of activity. I live alone, have been alone i.e. w/o family/friends/community for at least 2 years and need to introduce myself back into society. Scared as hell to meet new people; social skills are lacking, if I even have any. Like what can I bring to a conversation when what's most important in my life is struggling with the impact the depression has on my every waking moment. I don't think I'd want to spend much time with me!!!!

It's the weekend, and I have absolutely no plans to do anything/be with anyone. Please pray for me; I know it helps!

TroJanThunder 07/25/2014

Well you are expressing yourself well in your post so maybe there are still some social skills lurking about in you somewhere!

Could you start slowly. Make a short conversation with the clerk at the grocery store?

Go to the library and ppl watch.

Take a class at the Y?

omaerdna 07/25/2014

Great ideas, thanks! I actually have an app for the Y siting on my table - haven't had the courage to fill it out and take it in. Trying to imagine myself with a group of people. Truth is: I usually BOLT!! I'm outa there like a racing horse. I'm committed to change!!!

deleted_user 07/25/2014

I'm in the same spot as you :( I don't feel like I have social skills or anything to talk about. I haven't tried any of this stuff yet but I think about it everyday... volunteering, going to temple/church, getting out there to talk to anyone about anything. Interactions with people are good. I don't remember how to make friends anymore :( Sorry I can't be of more help!

TroJanThunder 07/25/2014

Fill out that app and go to the Y. You don't have to talk right away. Just observe and listen.

I find if I try too hard to say something clever I just end up saying something lame or dumb! LOL!

Take your time, but pls don't give up.

omaerdna 07/25/2014

I think I'm so desperate for human contact, I wan tackle people and force them to take care of me. In my particular situation, I'm feeling........needy, and I HATE that I feel that way. Seems weak and vulnerable and I'm sure the vibe comes off exactly that way, so it's like a balancing act trying to be with another human being right now. (Mind you, I used to do motivational speaking and taught a dance class, and I've totally lost that part of me and I don't know who/how to be anymore!!)

Crispymomma 07/26/2014

I have done the Y classes. They were fun, I think it is a good idea as are the volunteering and church. I also would just like to add that most people want connections. I have noticed that I do not have to do much at all. I can say hi and ask a general question, and people just start telling me everything. I have met several people that I knew almost their entire lives within 30 minutes. I just listen, they seem to like that. One older lady I met at the gym is still my friend after 2 years : )

itsjustdj 07/26/2014

Wow! You said so many things here that sound like me - feeling needy which means weak, wanting to bolt from a group of people, losing who you used to be & something I say quite often, "Even I don't want to be around me!" But you did express yourself well here so maybe starting small will help, maybe a comment to someone looking at the same author as you at the library or bookstore for example. I do have to say that maybe your therapist isn't the right one for you. If she isn't helping & there is no connection, look elsewhere. That relationship is too important.
Here's to making one comment to one person...& then bolting if you need to. No harm done.
Wishing you the best!
dj
www.myinvisiblenoise.blogspot.com

sweatingbullets 07/27/2014

Go visit animals in a shelter if you like animals. Being with animals is very calming and the animals would love the company. Don't worry too much about people skills or social skills, once the depression is gone or more under control it will come back. I personally believe being alone can be therapeutic, after all you are #1 in your life :)

MeggieLizzie 07/27/2014

It doesn't mean she doesn't care. She just may not know how to react to what you're saying to her. I experienced that with my psychiatrist at my last appointment. He was speechless for once. However, he genuinely cares about all of his patients, and I can tell by the look on his face that he gets upset whenever I tell him something sad or start crying. I think that might be what you're experiencing with your therapist.

What are your interests? Can you participate in church or group with people who share like interests? Can you do some volunteer work?
http://onlinecounsellingcollege.tumblr.com/post/92042695221/how-to-start-a-conversation

If you don't like your therapist, look into seeing another one.

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