You [b]CAN[/b] stop smoking! I don't know what your income is, but disability does provide $$ for stop smoking aids like the patch, etc. Of course the stop smoking stuff is still cheaper than the ciggies.
I've quit a dozen times, 18 months once, so I know it can be done. Staying quit is a tad harder, but I bet you can do that too. :)
Hearing your determination is my happy thought for the day. I want to quit as well, so I'll be able to follow your footsteps if you survive it. ;)
Welcome DonGato.
One thing you said stood out for me ...
[quote]I’m still convinced that I can help me again as I did it in the past.[/quote]
I agree that many times we are able to do this by ourselves, perhaps without the degree of success that additional help could give, but we can squeak through. I used to be like that too ... very proud.
I finally realized something that was profound for me ... the truth is you can build a house entirely without nails. It can be done. You have to work harder and the end result is not as solid, but the house can be built. But why would you?
Trying to do things on my own is a like building a house without nails. I can do it, but when I have the materials at hand to make the job easier and the result more successful, not using the "nails" is just my pride in overdrive.
I find having my medication, using the therapy (CBT is a very effective approach!), talking to others who share my issues and working hard to adopt a spirit of willingness ... all help. They are my "nails". I end up feeling better quicker and I actually get past the bout of depression instead of masking it.
It took me a long time to realize depression isn't an enemy to be conquered, it's an illness to be tended. If my ankle were sprained I wouldn't be ranting and ripping out my hair because I couldn't walk and so it is with depression. I had to stop being angry at the depression and just look at it like a problem to be dealt with.
I hope you find value here at the Depression Center. I certainly have! This is a great bunch of people who truly understand what it's like to go through depression. Unless you've been there, you just don't get it, no matter how well intentioned.
Anyway, welcome!
[IMG]http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a4/JR_Sandy/welcome-2.gif[/IMG]
Welcome Sylvie! You've joined a great team. This place is a godsend to lots of us.
