thanks irulan
it is getting better all the time, i still have ups and downs and right now i am sick so i can't ride my bike but the depression still keeps improving for me
btw it was me that asked you about ink for silk screening
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thanks irulan
it is getting better all the time, i still have ups and downs and right now i am sick so i can't ride my bike but the depression still keeps improving for me
btw it was me that asked you about ink for silk screening
For the most part, I've always been even keeled. I've had two previous bouts with depression but there were very definite circumstances causing it. However, this summer I've had 3 episodes, which relate to my hormones changing/waning. Yup, I'm pre-menopausal and it's nasty. I never knew when my cycle was coming or going. As a result, I thought PMS, post-partum depression, etc. were all bunk. I know better after this summer. They are real and due to real chemical imbalances in the brain.
Many people I know say, here in the U.S., we just aren't as happy as we used to be. Personally, I think we don't know how to have fun any more. We are too pressured with debt, job insecurities, pressures to be picture perfect, smart, successful, et al we can't think about what we truly value in life. We worry about minutia. We can't be just regular people. We don't even have enough time to think about ensuring the toilet tissue supply is OK. But I think we've brought this on ourselves because peer pressure is a powerful force even in adulthood.
All this coupled with TV, PC's, big houses with fenced yards has led many to be isolated from people. They don't have enough contact with real people, which is a real cause of depression for many people. I moved from my very middle class neighborhood to a lower middle class neighborhood and the people are much, much friendlier. The difference was very hard to miss. However, these people are outside often, checking the neighborhood, talking with one another, doing yard work, etc. I like my new neighborhood.
I've also noted the old people are generally friendlier than the younger people. They aren't afraid to talk to you or get involved with being your neighbor. I wonder why.
Moonfroggy,
How are you doing? You said in your last post that you were coming off of Effexor. How is that going?
So good that you have a good therapist. They're hard to find.
{{{HUGS}}}
well i'm not off it yet, i'm on the lowest dose, and getting to the lowest dose took me a few months because i get really sick going off it, i have tried stopping at thise dose a few times in the past but i got really sick, like sever nausea, and dizzyness and my face falling asleep, like my lips and stuff, and a horble headache, because of this i am aiting to go off completely, until after i get my wisdom teath out wich is next friday, on this low dose i am doing a lot better than i did on a higher dose, i think i will do good when i'm not taking any, i am keeping my fingers crossedQuote:
Originally posted by Dogmama
Moonfroggy,
How are you doing? You said in your last post that you were coming off of Effexor. How is that going?
So good that you have a good therapist. They're hard to find.
{{{HUGS}}}
and yeah good therapists are so great, and i am so glad i found one i just wish i found her several years sooner
thanks
{{{hugs}}}
I totally understand, I was violated last year and on top of that I broke my foot and was in a wheel chair for a few months, when it rains it pours…. I’ve been on drugs, therapy, herbs, and acupuncture, but nothing had helped my anxiety and stress levels like cycling. I am lucky to have a supportive finace who has been very paient with me and encouraged me to really get on a bike and ride till it “hurt”….
After all of the sleeping drugs that still haven’t stopped the nightmares cycling has. My therapist is totally supportive and says that it is an amazing outlet and she is really proud that I’ve become quite the cyclist over the past 9 months of dealing with my ordeal.
Good for you Pink! I still have to take my meds, cause I simply don't sleep (at all) if I don't. It doesn't matter if I run, cycle or work in the yard all day.
But.. the run, the bike or the yard does make my mind and body "feel" better.
Keep pedalin' grrl!
I have not posted here in several months due to a downward spiraling marriage and depression (which is the chicken and which is the egg, who knows...) and I log in today and what do I find? Posts on break-ups and depression! Not to mention peri-menopause (and yes there's a post on here today about that!)
I was afraid of antidepressants. Not sure why. Then I got to the point that I was willing to try just about anything, and my dear therapist said, girl, you need some lexapro, let's just try it. Thank God for her. I don't think I'd have made it through this past year without her, and it. There is a decreased libido, which is not a problem for me right now. I had this misguided notion that antidepressants would make me "happy" and that's really not it...they just make me feel steady and OK (not giddy or high or whatever...)
Echoing many others here, my bike and my meds are the tandem that keep me going. You ladies rock.
good for you shewhobikes. I love lexapro. As for the decreased libido, yeah, but don't get discouraged, it works if you work it. ;) :D
Yeah, been there, hospitalized for it, and sufferred through years of misdiagnoses and mis-medicating. I have been on and off medication since I was 13. :( Finally, what it came down to for me was being & living sober from all self-medication, eating properly, taking vitamin suppliments, and biking my fool *** off. The only times in my life I've felt even remotely "normal" have been when I'm active in a serious and focused way.
I'm going through another bout of depression - perimenopause isn't for sissies (see my rant on TDF thread about Lance's girlfriend for proof!) My shrink has tried every kind of antidepressant - SSRI, SNRI, tricyclic, and nothing works - or turns me into a raging lunatic. My regular doc thinks she can fix it through bio-identical hormones & we're just starting that route.
I'm interested in what people do in terms of diet, vitamins, etc. Thanks
In December I realized I was happy until I began thinking about work. In January I quit my job of 15+ years. The director of engineering, a man, said to me last year, "You need to learn how to make being a woman work for you." During two conversations with the HR director about workplace issues, I noted he didn't record the worst offenses. Managers stick together and are part of the problem.
Any of you ladies know how a woman is to make her gender work for her?
Quote:
Originally Posted by pkq
As joke, I think he'd mean, play the coquette game. You know, bat your eyes, unbutton your blouse, let them talk innuenedo.... Seriously, sounds like your HR dept is very screwed up. Record the worst offenses yourself and talk to a lawyer.
irulan
Thanks for the response Irulan. A lot of stuff is involved but whistle blowers never win so it's best to let it die and move on. Many employees are depressed because of their jobs, which is unfortunate because it consumes so much time and energy. People really don't want improvements they just claim to want them.
the last sentence seems to contradict the first ones. You say it's best to let it die and move on - then you say people don't really want improvements, they just claim to want them. (The things that you'd blow a whistle about probably wouldn't be seen as "improvements" by the blowees, right?)Quote:
Originally Posted by pkq
I don't understand staying in a job that would mess with your head so bad.There is always something else out there, why sacrifice your sense of self, self worth and sanity?
Irulan
Geonz, when the CEO advances a diversity program, you'd think one of the charter statements would be to improve the working conditions of minorities and other categories of people. So a whistle blower on sexual harrassment should be viewed as making an improvement. But when management sweeps sexual harrassment under the carpet despite a diversity program, they really don't want any note given to that issue. I'd call that lip service. Female managers took the same position on these issues, which was mildly surprising.
Irulan, many feel trapped due to debt and family. I stayed because I didn't have the "grass is greener syndrome" but now I'm filled with hope for greener pastures. I have already turned down one plant interview because the work environment was what I just left. And you get used to having 4 weeks vacation and all the other stuff that goes with longevity with a company. A lot of words to say I ain't too smart.
In my case, I have 4.5 years to go to retirement, so leaving would be really stupid. Fortunately, I work at a major University, so when things get really bad, I look for a job in another department. It is like getting a different job but keeping your benefits. Still have the government, bureaucracy B.S., but nothing is perfect.
We're building a new building and I'm desperately trying to convince the "powers that be" that we need a shower for bike commuters. So far, they laugh and make comments about, "how about a masseuse, manicurist, etc." and these are from women (who - truth be told - couldn't ride a bike around the block - certainly not MINE!!!)
So much for progress. Bleech!
To back up to the question of nutrition and depression, what has worked for my partner and me is to eat animal protein, to eat it every meal, and to make sure we are getting enough good fats in our diet (fish, nuts, olive oil, safflower oil.) I know this is going to be controversal or even offensive for some people. The nutrition guy we have seen specializes in helping people with life-threatening illnesses through diet - my partner was definitely having life-threatening depression and was not tolerating any antidepressents well. A lot of the nutritionist's practices go against current modes of thinking. His argument is that the brain requires protein and fat to function properly and that when people started to focus on low-fat diets, there was a great rise in depression in our society. Everyone is an individual in these regards, and there are a lot of good arguments against meat. I loved being vegetarian and looking all my animal friends in the eyes without guilt. I give thanks to the animal, and have even had a discussion with our butcher about his attitude toward and means of killing. It wasn't an easy choice for us.
I offer this in case it can alleviate someone's suffering. If nothing else is working, it may be an important key.
Dogmamma, I worked for a large corporation and transferred around some. The men usually were problems so I wonder if I was really the problem, since I was the common denominator. I have been told by people I am intimidating, which may be the real issue. If something looks fun or challenging, I'm usually there. Life is too short to let things slip by.
I commuted last year some and got some condescending comments from the male managers. They didn't like spandex......or maybe they liked it too much.
To avoid completely hijacking the thread, I've read too much sugar affects mood dramatically and especially through menopause and all its stages. When you think of your body as a chemical reactor and foods as chemicals, it stands to reason what you ingest will affect your mood.
I've not been on site for a while and I couldn't believe this discussion. Thanks guys.
I've just been diagnosed as having depression and anxiety and have been put on Fluoxitine (prozac).Looking back it seems I've had this for years not just months and no-one realised. I've had terrible mood swings, irritability and anger, (over silly things),unable to ocncentrate on anything properly, feelings of being unreal and yes I have thought about taking a bottle of asprin or something like it. I've also had insomnia, lack of concentration, unable to make the simplest decissions. I only started treatment last Thursday but I feel better already. The doctor said it would take a couple of weeks for the medication to kick in properly. I know I've a long way to go but it's a start. Long may it continue.
It's so good to know I'm not alone in this.
Hey Roadrunner... welcome to the world of "better living through chemistry".
As I posted way earlier in this thread, I ended up diagnosed with depresion, stress, anxiety and suspected PTSD stemming from a hostile work environment. Had a breakdown and I went out on disability.
That was May 2003. I've been on my meds since and my disability benefits ended April of this year. I made the decision along the way not to go back to the corporate environs... and as I've mentioned somewhere else on TE, I', going back to school full time come Sept.
I am much better on the meds... there are still things that come up that give me the "wierd" feelings that I had mid breakdown, but I've been able to get through them rather than hide under my favorite rock.
Hope you continue to feel better.
spazzdog
Roadrunner - welcome back. Glad you're feeling better. "They" say it takes 2-4 weeks for antidepressents to work, but I've always had an immediate effect too.
After double digit years, I've been unable to take anything because I cannot handle the side effects. I've been on all of them. So, I'm working things through in therapy and also doing meditation and Reiki. I've been chemical free for awhile now (even bio-identical hormones screwed me up) and I feel better. I am perimenopausal and I think that has messed up my brain chemistry - I have to watch what I ingest a lot more closely.
Of course, riding is such a blessing. I'd be really nuts without it!
Ain't it the truth - me too!!! It's a screwy time to live through.Quote:
Originally Posted by Dogmama
Roadrunner, so glad to hear your voice here again. I was just thinking about you the other day and wondering how you were doing. I'm hoping you will be feeling better each day. :)
So, as some of you may have read in another thread, i'm returning to college full time beginning Sept.
I am, at this moment, in the thro's (how do you spell that word?) of an anxiety attack. It's 3:50 am on the east coast and i'm still awake. i've taken my meds (9:00 pm) and here i sit.
How do I know I'm anxious... I've withdrawn into my art (if you can call it that). I've been designing a cycling jersey for no one for the last 4 hrs. I can't sleep... so for once I'm up with you left coasters.
No... I'm not looking for "le petite pity party". I guess that now, with one month to go, I'm just scared. O.K. I admit and accept the fear. Now what???
When some of you met me back at Cinderella, it was the first trip i'd taken in 2 yrs; heck, it was one of the few times I'd been out of the house since May of 2003. Now I'm throwing myself into the school thing... I'm 30 yrs older than most of the students; probably younger than the teachers. I'm second guessing myself.
I know it's ridiculous... I know it's silly. But I'm in the middle of it and can't seem to get out. I want to go to school, I really do. Jeez, I'm scared...
ignore this post. i'll be fine. i WILL be fine.
spazzdog
Thanks guys. I'm definately feeling heaps better now. It's just amazing how much better taking one little capsule a day can make such a difference.
Family and friends are feeling rotten not having picked up on it before now. I can work back to at least four years, my sister thinks it's longer, so I guess it'll take a while before all is normal (whatever that is) again!!
Not only you will be fine, Spazz.Quote:
Originally Posted by spazzdog
You will be GREAT!
Don't worry about the age thing. Last fall I was still 26 and had students born between 1985 and 1945 in my class. (I teach in a public university - not TA, adjunct.) More and more "mature students" come back to university and the institution and teachers and younger students are adjusting (albeit slowly in some cases!). You're definitely not alone out there and they may even not notice your "difference". ;)
Good luck, you can do it. (Check out the "hills mantra" threads and make adjustements as needed..... :p)
I work at a major University and also attended classes. I was old enough to be their mom. There were a sprinkling of us oldsters in the class. Guess what? Nobody noticed. Kids these days are so self absorbed that they don't see much beyond their 3 foot perimeter.Quote:
Originally Posted by spazzdog
Instructors love us oldsters. We are there to learn (not just "hang out" until we "discover ourselves"). We attend class, do homework and show up for the exams without a bunch of lame excuses ("my dog ate my zip drive"). They chuckle because we usually blow any grading curve sky high.
I don't know what your field is - but the more advanced your classes get, the older the student population is and the more serious the studying becomes.
You'll be great! And don't forget - you can always pull the student athlete card!
Aw spazz, look how far you've come! It's OK to be scared, heck, we're all scared, one way or another. All your TE sisters are behind you - take our strength if you need it.
Yes - you will be fine!
(((hugs)))
Quote:
Originally Posted by spazzdog
Hang in there Spazzdog. Once you get there I'm sure you'll be fine. The thought is always worse than the actual doing, at least that's what I've found. The anxiety always builds it up to be more than it is.Quote:
Originally Posted by spazzdog
I recently went to see Jackie Pullinger talking in St. Andrew's but by the time I got there all I could think was let me out I don't want to be here!!! (I wanted to go). Once things got going I was fine, don't let it win over you. Hang in there,Good luck with college you'll be great.
thanks grrls... today is a better day.
y'all are the best!
spazz
Hi Spazz, just try real hard to begin the first day. By the end of it you will be saying to yourself, "what the heck was I afraid of." Then I am sure you will fully enjoy each and every day learning all about a whole new world.
I give you so much credit. When I graduated highschool my father (Italian) didn't find it necessary to send me to college or even a newly open Katherine Gibbs. As I took business courses in highschool that was suppose to be sufficient, just go out and get a job. So here I sit, title Senior Administrative Assist, which was once called Secretary. We are now putting my son through college. Needless to say, that will be enough money spent on schooling.
Remember to e-mail me when you find out more about your classes. This is an exciting time, try to enjoy it and not be so nervous.
~JoAnn
go get 'em Spazz, I wanna come to the graduation, let us know when. :)
Oh yes! I'm always up for a road trip!Quote:
Originally Posted by Trek420
Spazz, I so envy your grit! You are willing to put yourself out there, and that's so incredible! Don't worry about those children around you, just take the first step! You'll be great!
I love this forum! Even if we don't know each other on a personal basis, we can come together and encourage our sisters!
JoAnn, I'm from the *secretary* era as well, but I bolted a few years ago and went into sales and design (strictly commission). I just couldn't bear one more day strapped to a desk! My parents weren't willing to send us (or help) girls to college either & I put myself through a community college course...
You can do it, Spazz!! :)
Give 'em hell Spazz!!! As Dogmama said we "non-traditional" students tend to blow the curve and are appreciated by the instructors. I went back in my late 30's and did MUCH better than I did in my teens and 20's.
Spazz, I have never stopped going to school... part of being a teacher. There have always been all ages of students in my classes. Granted, these were grad. classes, but in the last 2 years, most of the people have been younger than me ( a lot). I think you'll find a lot of non-traditional students at U Mass Lowell. I know several people who have gone there, all adults. You shouldn't be nervous! You are smart and as long as you stay organized, you'll be fine. Most of the undergrads there are commuters and work. From what i see, the rest leave campus on the weekends to go home. So, I would say that even the younger students are juggling a lot of responsibilities.
hey Spazz, hang tough or at least through those moments of anxious uncertainty. Older students are the best!
Maryellen
Hey Spazz -
I suffer from anxiety also - for me the fear and anxiety are tough, and then the beating myself up for being so anxious can be tougher! One new thing I'm trying these days is to think of the gentle encouragement, support and understanding I'd offer an anxious friend, and turn around and offer that to myself. I think it's helping. Oh yeah, and don't forget to breathe!
Oh, spazz. I'm thinking of you. I just got around to reading this due to the stuff I mentioned before. You'll be fine once you get the first foot in the classroom. Think of all the life experience and knowledge you'll be bringing with you. The kiddies won't have any of this.
Exercise helps me the best with insomnia but I sure can't say I've found the wonder cure for it. I almost have to force myself to think only of the good stuff and get pretty forceful with my subconscious, not the easiest thing.
Hang tough. You've already made the first and biggest step.
SK
Something to make you laugh - just picture soon-to-be 46 yr old me (and 56 yr old Bubba) on our triple crankset roadbikes on the time trial course with the college kiddies who had fancy TT bikes and still don't know how to spell FAT. Geez. But I learned lots and that's what its all about.
Thought you girls might find this interesting.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060106/...ession_protein