Big hugs to you!

I tackle depression several ways because Ive struggled with it severly at times.

I usually begin with routine. I try to keep to or formulate a basic routine. This often means forcing myself to do things i really don't want to, but i know that if i dont keep to the routine, in all likeliness, i'll decline because then i will no longer be eating, drinking, brushing my teeth etc.

Secondly I enforce the routine by rationalising that these are the basic things my body needs to keep going, without which, I can't expect to feel better.

Thirdly I try to keep social contact as much as possible- by far the hardest but it really really really does work. Even if it's just a phonecall. Tell someone how you're feeling. Offloading is great.

Fourth- I try to get some exercise. Even stretches Anything that makes me focus on wat I'm doing stops me thinking. Because I'm usually jist thinking crap that makes me more depressed.
Studies show repeatedly that physical activity is more beneficial than anti depressants. Due to our physical conditions that sometimes means we have to think outside the box as to what constitutes as "exercise".

I also set goals. With something i enjoy as a reward to look forward. Simple but it often tackles my feelings of inadequacy and nothing to look forward to which i often feel when depressed.

Then tackling the root causes, problem thoughts and triggers.

And finally.. because this post is long sorry! Maintainence. So these steps are just as important to keep going when I don't feel so depressed because they also keep me from dipping back down.

It's a tough fight sometimes and often it seems like it'l always be as bad but if ones thing is certain in life it's Change.

I really hope some of this helps you as it's helped me x

I'm sorry to hear u are doing it tough emotionally. Approximately 40 % of fibromyalgia sufferers have a problem with lack of serotonin in the brain. This is very likely the case with you also and as it is a chemical imbalance u need to take antidepressants that replace the serotonin. Do not feel ashamed as u are not alone in this. If u can go the all natural route try to find a natural doctor who can suggest ways to increase the serotonin levels. I take the antidepressant effexor (venlaxafine) and I take the maximum dose of 150 mg x 2 tablets each morning. I found the higher the dose the more normal I felt. I was seriously depressed before though so it was amazing to not only have the black clouds disappear, but it helped me cope with the pain so much better too. There are other SSRI meds your doctor can try u on. Good luck and I hope you are feeling much happier soon. 😀❤

I too have found myself more depressed as the days go on. I do sewing, crafts and i have found it very quieting with the adult coloring books. I put on an audio book or music , put my headphones on and just sit and color. I find it very relaxing. If not the coloring, search a word. And i find time to sit and play with my dogs. they are very good therapy.

Hi,a few years ago my rheumatologist saw how depressed I was and we talked about it. Finally broke down and realized I wasn't getting better by myself. I went to see a psychiatrist. The best thing I ever did. He talked a little and put me on Cymbalta and Abilify. I have no depression now. The meds take care of it. I'm not saying that's the way for you, just saying it was the right way for me to go. Hugs. Connie

Just to comment, God never said he would never give us more than we can handle. I looked up that verse and it referred to temptation...God promises not to let us be tempted above what we can handle, but with each temptation he gives us a way of escape. There's another quote that's not in scripture that says, God never promised to not give us more than we can handle, but will be with us to help us through. I find that comforting and such a relief to not have to think because I feel I cannot handle something that I am inadequate. I don't have to feel guilty because there are things in my life I cannot handle. We would never need God if we were adequate. We find our need for God because we can't do it on our own. He is faithful to help us in our time of need and promises never to leave us. He gives us the grace to go on...for even the going on is a gift from God. How I need His grace daily in my life!!