Hi Curlergirl!
Sorry to hear about your emotional downsides, this is really a difficult situation to live through. I think the things that help me most are one, that I spend time everyday in prayerfull study of the word, the spirit of Christ came to me long ago but only recently have I looked to him in a personnal relationship. I had my earthly father who has passed but I still have my heavenly father who gives me peace and guidence. Next I have two wonderful and loving dogs (cocker spaniels, Tanna and Autumn) who give love unconditionaly and are great company. Lastly I have made friends with others with disabilities and get out at least once a week for lunch of a quick trip to the store, ice cream or whatever.

One thing that makes my life so much better is that I have a wife and family that understands my condition and works with me so we can enjoy our life together, she is my angel, my love and my best friend. Summing it up we need to have our outlets and support which is why this is such a great resource on line.
Have a blessed day!

Rich

I DO NOT KNOW HOW I HANDLE IT ,I JUST GO DAY BY DAY ,AND ENJOY THE BETTER DAYS AND FIGHT THROUGH THE BAD, YOUR NOT ALONE, HUGS SQUARLEY

Hi curlergirl,
That is a great question!!! Some days it is hard. I try to find something beautiful in my day. It might be a flower.... or maybe a sunset ... or the smile of a child. The unconditional love of a pet always makes my day too. I have also found that helping others perks up my mood. I also rely on my faith for everything in life. That is a sure thing, never changing. I have also given myself permission to just take off time when I need to, without feeling guilt. If I need to spend the afternoon lying down, than that is what I do. Yes, life has changed. But there is still good in every day.
Hope you can find some beauty in your day too.

Hello, like many of us here I find solace in my savior; he seems to give me strength to get through it all. Don't get me wrong I have my days where I break down and cry and wonder when its all going to end, but then I wipe my tears and keep living. We have to, we cannot let this illness beat us or define us. It has taking a very long time to accept my "new" life but its just that....LIFE! We must never give up in finding what will make us feel better even if its for a short time. I keep myself busy, gardening, reading, spending time with my precious granddaughter and most important journaling anything to keep my mind occupied and most of all I praise God every day and night for being there with me through it all!

Keep hoping!

Like most people, my faith is what gets me through those days that aren't all that great. My lifestyle has changed, but I have not. There are days when I wish I could drive to the mall, or go to the grocery store without any apprehension. I take one day at a time and find the blessings God has in store for me every day. And I have to admit, sometimes that's hard to do when you have long bouts of vertigo and nausea. I, like you, feel isolated. I miss work, but I work around the yard and I make jewelry. Curleygirl, our emotions run the gambit. It is not unusual to feel depressed. What I know to be true is that Christ is by my side every step of the way. I have a loving husband who understands what I'm going through. I have two pups that keep me busy: Riley a rambuncious assie/border collie and a new pound puppy (almost 1yr old): Peanut, who is 1 1/2 yr old Yorkie. They keep me busy during the day with their antics. There are days when I don't appreciate their enthusiasim. lol. What helps too, are the wonderful people on this site who share their journeys with you. You aren't alond Curleygirls, we're here for you! HUGS!

It is hard at times to keep the mood up. One of the things for me is to be honest with myself and those around me. When I can name what I am feeling, it helps me to not spiral down into a deep depression. I have a really good counselor that I go to that helps me sort through the web of stuff that creeps up. It surprises me and frustrates me at how easy it is for me to start spiraling down - I don't like being this vulnerable and out of control - who would like it.
I find it helpful to write and journal. I write poetry that gives expression to what I am feeling, and that helps to release it.
I also have two small groups of people that I try to meet with each month for prayer and support - they have been so wonderful. I was in these groups before I got so sick and became disabled, so they have walked with me through this journey. I would be lost without them - almost all my other friends and colleagues have abandoned me. My family for the most part has been great, but it is really hard on them - especially on my kids. Everyone just wants me better, and it's hard to accept that this might be the better. However, it is important to not give up hope.
My faith is very important to me, although I am unable to attend church with any regularity - as it takes so much out of me, and mornings are rarely good.
Staying in touch with people, like with this group is important. Just knowing you are not alone, and that others understand makes a big difference.
Blessings on your journey.
Michael