Hi C633, I don't have my glasses on, I hope I got the ID right. lol
Glad you are here! CBT is scientifically proven to be the most effective therapy for CBT (from what I've read). I've also personally worked this program for MDD, diagnosed appr. 2004. It is been very very very helpful and helped me to get my life back on track even living with MDD.
I can understand why a person might utilize alcohol to self-medicate but the fact that you recognize that is what you are doing is a great first step. I suggest that you discuss this with your doctor, it may be the medications are not working anymore or need adjusted. I don't know where you are from, but there is a sister site to this one for alcohol dependency that you might find useful. There are also alcohol treatment programs. Admitting there is a problem is the first step.
You have to take care of you first, I know it sounds selfish, but your health (treatment for MDD and potential addiction to alcohol) comes first. After I started taking care of myself, then I was able to have a more fulfilling relationship with those around me. It's been a long haul. This program was the catalyst, the sessions work. I've been hanging around for a couple of years now, worked through the sessions, still come back for the support and encouragement and to give an opinion like some awesome folks did for me when I first came here.
One more opinion - lol, I'm full of them - talk therapy has been essential, in addition to my medications and this program. There are a few other things I've been able to start doing as a result of working the sessions, taking my time and utilizing The Depression Center to the fullest. Things like appreciating the little things, started dating again, went back to work. I also exercise now and find many things enjoyable I didn't in the "throws of the depression".
I hope this helps. I'm glad you are here. Keep posting! Work the sessions at your own pace, use the resources available and check out that sister site. I've known others who do both!!!!
