Wellness

[Sweet Caroline 1]

[RedTop]

Now that you've identified your problem and the reason behind it, you need to find a fixable solution. I can think of many ways to meet people, make friends, and find human support.

Why are there no other living options? My great uncle was left totally alone on the west coast when his second wife became very ill and went back to her family home on the east coast for her last days. The small 2 bedroom house in town was too much for Uncle to maintain, so he secured a room in a residential hotel in that area, and sold the house, along with furnishings.

Uncle lived out his life there, with everything he needed. I have pictures of him in his room and in the dining room, and he looked happy in his nice, clean surroundings. Uncle was content, felt safe, and he raved about the dining room food in every letter. If he wanted to talk, all he had to do was walk to the TV room and someone would be sitting there waiting for company. I truly felt his last days living alone in a residential hotel were far happier than all the days of marriage #2!

Your solution is fixable if you put your regrets behind and move forward.

[Sweet Caroline 1]

[Sapphiregal]

Depression is one of those things that only those who suffer from it can truly understand what it feels like. I am sorry you are dealing with it. I have always battled moderate depression. However, when I lost a young son to cancer several years ago I really went deep into it. If not for medication, I would be unable to function at all. If you like animals, a dog would be great company to you. I sometimes think I would rather be with my pets than people. They give you unconditional love!😊 I hope you can get some help.

[NicksmomESQ]

@gellen  You need to make peace with your past decisions  & move forward. If you feel lonely maybe volunteer somewhere like a women's shelter,children's hospital, group home etc.

   You have friends here.Though we aren't professionals, we do care.

[FancyPhillyshopper]

Dear Gemcd,

Depression is a medical illness that can affect many people in many different ways and with distinct levels of severity depending on life circumstances.

Yes, doctors can definitely provide medication and support.

This year has been particularly difficult for all human beings.  Everyone has been told to practice "self-care."

Your life is like a flower blooming--feed it, water it, give it sunshine, so it may root deeply and be healthy.  One bloom will blossom and fade and then another will bloom.  That is the way with the experiences we have in our life--anticipation, gain, and loss.  It is a continuous cycle.

You cannot lose hope or think you are "stuck."  Take action to gain what you desire. If you want a family, make one!  Many needy children are in foster care looking for a loving parent. Become a volunteer in a children's hospital.  Join some activities to meet potential partners. There are many Internet websites where people find "matches" even in this time of pandemic.

Sometimes when we focus too much on ourselves we forget that many flowers are needed to make a garden.  You are unique and important, and you need to recognize that and share yourself with the rest of the world.

[tobes]

@gellen I am so sad for you.  I am in my 70's and also live alone.My family is across the country but I have a brother who lives close by.   I sometimes feel depressed as well.  i find that it is essential to move around if you can.  I usually drive to a large grocery store early in the morning and walk the aisles.  Most supermarkets open at 7 or 8 am and there is usually no one there shopping  When I come home I take my morning shower and throw my clothes into the washing machine   This past weekend I took a ride to an outdoor farmer's market and try to go to as many of those I can.  Occassionally I meet a friend for lunch at a restaurant that offers outside dining. Hope you an still drive.  Once in a while, I take a nap when I feel sad and just let myself get into it.  But I promise myself the next day to be more active so I push myselfl  Please contact your physician and ask for help.  Make sure there is no physical reason for the depression first.

[OkeyDokey]

I'm feeling you.  I've been struggling with depression and ptsd for about 3 years.  Please see your primary care, seek out a reputable licensed counselor, but tonight, please do this:

Go to youtube and search out breathing exercises Dr. Andrew Huberman and Wim Hof.  The breathing exercises can help a lot when you are feeling overwhelmed.  They have helped me feel a glimmer of hope.

God bless you!

[hckynut]

@gellen 

There is always hope, for everyone. Being one that had been in a mental hospital, at the darkest of times, I always had hope. During those days/weeks/months and years, one thing I always had was Optimism.

I believed, and rightfully so, that some day I would get back to living my life. With Professional help/meds/classes and my Optimism , day by day/week/month and year, I got there. I still consider myself as recovering, and thankful for each new day.

Won't suggest anything other than:

Seek Profession Help and always have Optimism.  My thoughts are with you, I Care!

hckynut(john)

[LiveLaughLove]

Can't promise by it will work for th but I leaned it from a doctor about thirty years ago and it ha helped decal of my friends.  Hey up in the morning wash your face - no lotion at all. And no sunglasses.   Go outside in the sunshine for fifteen miinutes minimum.  Then you can go indoors and do your usual routine. This fifteen minute will not have your skin but will give your body a full dose of real vitamin D. Depression is often caused by a lack of "real" vitamin D.  If it is raining and you cannot go out sit by a window to 15-20 minutes.  Give it a try to a couple of weeks and see what happens.

Good luck