I am so sorry to read all the challenges you are facing now. It sounds like you are in a dark place where you feel stuck and unsure of how to get out. I am so glad you found us so we can help you through this. What do you think is holding you back more the depression or arthritis? From what I read it sounds like the arthritis is almost preventing you from getting mentally well, does that sound right? My heart goes out to you when you talk about the pain of walking - that must be so hard to manage! I know you have likely already heard this but I just have to emphasis exercise again. Exercise is not only essential for our mental health it is also necessary in order to reduce symptoms of arthritis. Have you talked to a physiotherapist about exercise you can do that may help? You also may want to look into CBT and mindfulness for pain management. You deserve the best possible care and treatment for your arthritis.
This program would be great for the depression and perhaps the program is where you want to get started - but I just wanted to highlight that I think managing the arthritis will also be a big part of your recovery. Whatever you decide to get started on feel free to post often. You are not alone in this - we will sit in the darkness with you if we have to. How are you feeling today?
I am here because I am unsure of where else to go. I cannot access the local CMHA or health unit because of privacy concerns and my own management position. I have been slowly slipping into a darker and darker place over the past year and a half. Looking back I would say I started to feel symptoms about two years ago. My doctor suggested the light therapy lamp and that seemed to help for a while as my symptoms got worse in the winter. Everybody suggests exercise as the number one thing to do, but I am unable to exercise due to severe arthritis in most of my lower joints and hands. Even a short walk can mean hours of pain later. As a result I keep self comforting with food and gaining weight. I am at the point where I can hardly do what I need to in order to get my work done and just live life. If I could, I would sleep all the time. The best part of my day is getting into bed, usually by 6:30 or 7:00 pm. I am already on so many drugs for the arthritis and other health conditions that I just dread having to take anything else. I realize I am going to have to do something before this blackness just engulfs me completely. Thank you in advance for any replies.
