@A MyFibroTeam Member, after being home for 15 years, I have gone through it all. Highs, lows and everything inbetween. You should be on an antidepressant, and have a Dr that keeps tabs on you. That has what has kept me sane. There were times I got so bad I crashed and needed daily outpatient care. In between all the surgeries (18) for oa, and pain from fibro. It was suggest to get a blue light, the type that is suggested for seasonal depression. I got one and it helps a lot. You sit with it on you for x minutes a day to lengthen the daylight in your mind. If interested I can forward more info about that. I had many hobbies, almost all are gone now but one. Genealogy, I joined Ancestry.com and find it very stimulating. Also did my DNA with them and found many others I am related to in the world! There are many men that do this. It keeps your mind sharp, and the curiosity side of it keeps you guessing. This too I would be happy to help you with if you think you would be interested. Let me know if I can be of any help.
Anna

Mentioned Users

A MyFibro...

Robert, most antidepressants can take 6-10 weeks to really start working in the body. In addition to that, not every medication is going to work for everyone. Never be afraid to talk to your doctor about it, to let them know that you don't think it's not working. You might need a dosage change or a supplemental medication added, like Abilify. It'll take time to figure out what works for you. Have faith and stay strong.

I've struggled with depression off and in throughout my life but it was mostly what they call situational depression, depression due to events in my life. Like when my grandfather died, when my mom was ill with her cancers, etc. Despite those times, I've always managed to have a positive attitude otherwise. Which isn't always easy. Just the other day I was a fiesty crab because I was pissed off about my current situation, the situation that this dang fibro-beast has put me in! But then I started thinking about all of the things I am thankful for and I sat outside with my dogs for a bit. The fresh air, warm weather, sunshine, and playing with my dogs instantly cheered me up. Mind you, I would much rather have been at work, making money, but right now this is what it is.

My grandma always told us, "Negative thoughts beget negative thoughts and positive thoughts beget positive thoughts."

I know that's not always easy to do when you're depressed. And I'm not trying to tell you to "snap out of it." I know that's not possible. Perhaps doing something that you enjoy doing for a short time while help you feel good, then that will make you happy, then you'll want to do more, and so on. I work in my art journal, watch a funny movie, or go outside when I'm in need of a boost.

Hopefully my wordy little chat will help you a tad. Praying you will find some relief to it all. And that you'll see the sun shining into your beautiful world again.

The fatigue and the depression kinda go hand in hand along with fibro. It is really hard to deal with this fibro beast, but we have to keep pushing forward. Please try to find a hobby you can do sitting down and it will help more than you ever realize. My hobby is my computer, I can get very lost in the computer for hours, then my body says I have to move for a few. I know it is not for everyone but you need to explore all your options. I use to do cross stitch sewing but the computer came along and took over for me. I will pray for you Jim. Have a Blessed Day and Gentle Hugs sent your way.

Depression is tough to deal with Jim. I take meds for it but it is a battle. Sometimes it seems that I will be swallowed up by it. Taking with people who understand helps, a friend, counselor, praying, hanging onto a scripture verse that speaks to you, journaling, getting outside if you can, and staying in touch with folks like us...oh, and finding something that makes you laugh. YouTube , Mark Lowrey or Tim Hawkins, Chonda Pierce, just to name a few. Hang in there Jim! Liz

Jim is something we learn to live with. It is hard to live your life when you are in pain. And sometimes you wonder when you lay in that bed in a fetal position. Am I really alone? Is anyone with me. Believe me Brother we are all here with you.