I AM ALONE

Hi LorraMerry

I feel as though I am not experienced enough to give you advice - but I think you really need to speak to a doctor and get some anti-depressants. I know it won't miraculously change your life, but it will take the edge of your sadness and you will start to feel stronger.

You aren't alone.

Take care.

Hello Lorramerry. First of all, your not alone. You may feel al alone just now, but the fact that people here are replying tells you that there are people out there who are willing to talk to you. More importantly perhaps, there are people out there who know what your are going through.

stwj.suze is right, you need to talk to your doctor if you haven't already. Have you spoken to them? They are sometimes not the most helpful, but they are a starting point. Your depression is an illness, and like all illness it can be treated. It might well be linked to your low self esteem, but the good news is that can be treated too. First of all though, you need to talk to someone about how you feel. If you can't do it for yourself try to do it for your animals. If you aren't around to take care of them then what would happen to them.

I have low self esteem issues myself, as the child of alcoholic parents. Did your mother drink? I ask because if she did then there is an organisation called Al-Anon, which is a support group for the relatives and friends of alcoholics which I go to, and has been a tremendous help and support for me. There is no pressure there, and they are very welcoming. You can sit and say nothing if you like, just listen, they will not put you under any pressure to speak or take part in anything.

I also attend a support group for people with depression once a week. Again, it has been a major part in my recovery. I've been suffering with this illness for three years this time round, and had to give up work and life in general because I couldn't leave the house of speak to anyone when it was at it's worst. It is possible to put the pieces back together eventually though. It's a slow process, but I feel I'm better off now than when I started.

Your doctor might be able to give you more information about support groups in your area, or at least put you in touch with a CPN or local mental health specialist who can.

Please reply and let us know how you are feeling and whether your seeing the doctor or not. As I said, your not alone, and there are people out there who care even if they've never met you.

Have you thought about phoning Samaritans? They are trained to offer emotional support for whatever you might be facing, and they are warm, caring, nonjudgmental people who will listen to you. Every call is confidential. Please phone Samaritans if you just want to talk, and definitely if you feel at all suicidal. They are there to help you.