I am so sorry you're feeling this way. I can really empathize with you, as I often have the same feelings - feeling generally anxious, lonely, hopeless and down in the dumps. It's no fun, but one thing I have realized is that it never lasts forever. It may seem like it will, but there is always hope. Knowing you won't feel this way forever can sometimes make the pain a little easier to endure.

Try as hard as you can to appreciate the little things in life. There is at least one good thing in every day, whether that be a hug from your kids, smile from a stranger, or a beautiful sunset. Start a gratitude journal and write down one thing you are thankful for each and every day. If you are religious, praying can help. God loves you and is always looking over and protecting you. You're never, ever alone.

Realize that you're in control of your life. Yes, mental health issues are largely biological diseases, but that does not mean you are not in control. You can choose to take steps towards becoming happier and healthier. Reach out to others around you, do things you enjoy, and most importantly, take care of yourself - both body and spirit. I know feeling depressed and anxious all the time makes it really difficult to want to eat, but you just have to kind of force yourself. Being malnourished will only worsen the depressed and anxious feelings - it's a vicious cycle. But you have the power to break that cycle. You are a strong woman, and I know you can do it.

You can always message me on here for support or if you need someone to vent to. You don't have to go through this alone.

Take care

I know from your previous post that you have adult children. Not sure if you have any grandkids. But though you don't feel you have support at home, I'm sure they would be devastated if you gave us completely. Maybe they aren't sure how to help. You are valuable and important. YOU are the point of going on. you are beautiful and important. Hang in there hon.

I know that it is hard to see a reason to keep fighting the fight sometimes...it does feel hopeless at times...but think of those three beautiful children of yours and what would happen to them if you gave up. I know that they may get frustrated at times...family struggle to understand...but they love you and would do anything for you. Do you have a therapist? If not, I really recommend that you find one...mine helps me immensely. I don't know what I would do without her. She had gotten me through some really, really rocky times. Actually she is getting me through a really rocky time right now. My nutritionist is also a big part of my support team as well. I would not make it without my support team...both in-person and virtual. What can I do to help you out? I am here for you...keep fighting. Your friends are here for you.

thanks so much for all the support and advice, you all are very wise. the hard thing about anxiety, depression and ED is that they are all such isolating diseases, I think about doing something with someone, then nusually back out. I had no Christmas spirit this year, I couldn't wait to take down the tree that I was pressured into putting up. my son danny, actually all my children, know about my issues, they grew up with me in chronic depression until I finally found the right doctor and med mix and they all know about ED and are worried, have given suggestions, now they don't even talk about it. I don't want to mention anything, particulary ED as it is obvious I am not doing to much about it, I have stayed around the same weight for awhile now. I should choose to be stronger for everyone but sometimes it is so darn hard.