On top of regular depression, which in itself is hard enough to deal with, there is also what's called "Seasonal Depression" (I only wish that all I had was seasonal, but then again if you count Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter and Christmas Season then I guess maybe I do!)
For the past few weeks I have been irritable and grouchy and my temper can change at the drop of a needle as well as my mood.
The Dr told me all I can do is to take one day at a time, (or one hour at a time for that matter)! Not much help but if this is seasonal depression it sucks and ruins the lives of people around me, even the poor dog.
Thursday 8 December 2011
Friday 18 November 2011
Why is it so tough to tell what's normal?
What's the difference between mental health and mental illness? Sometimes the answer seems clear. For instance, a person who hears voices in his or her head could have schizophrenia. A person who goes on a frenzied shopping spree or starts an ambitious project — such as remodeling the bathroom — without any plans might be having a manic episode caused by bipolar disorder.
In some cases, however, the distinction between mental health and mental illness isn't so obvious. If you're afraid of giving a speech in public, does it mean you have a mental health condition or a run-of-the-mill case of nerves? If you feel sad and discouraged, do you have the blues, or is it full-fledged depression?
Here's help understanding how mental health conditions are identified.
In some cases, however, the distinction between mental health and mental illness isn't so obvious. If you're afraid of giving a speech in public, does it mean you have a mental health condition or a run-of-the-mill case of nerves? If you feel sad and discouraged, do you have the blues, or is it full-fledged depression?
Here's help understanding how mental health conditions are identified.
Why is it so tough to tell what's normal?
It's often difficult to distinguish normal mental health from mental illness because there's no easy test to show if something's wrong. Mental health conditions are diagnosed and treated based on signs and symptoms, as well as on how much the condition affects your daily life. Signs and symptoms can affect your:- Behavior. Obsessive hand-washing or drinking too much alcohol might be signs of a mental health condition.
- Feelings. Sometimes a mental health condition is characterized by a deep or ongoing sadness, euphoria or anger.
- Thinking. Delusions — such as thinking that the television is controlling your mind — or thoughts of suicide might be symptoms of a mental health condition.
Wednesday 26 October 2011
Journal Entry- Last to Go
I now know what it would be like if I lost my wife. She went to the states for 3 days and it was just too quiet, the pets were home but it was not the same. I had no one to tell me to do this or that (and yes believe it or not I did miss that!). The nights were so much quieter, and I really missed not having her sitting in her usual chair. I told her when she got home that she was not to die off first!
I do not have much energy these days, not sure if it is the meds or just the way they are effecting me (although my wife says it probably has more to do with extra weight, I like my idea better), and then there are days that I seem to have lots of energy, go figure!
I do not have much energy these days, not sure if it is the meds or just the way they are effecting me (although my wife says it probably has more to do with extra weight, I like my idea better), and then there are days that I seem to have lots of energy, go figure!
Saturday 24 September 2011
Same Old
Hasn't been a good day.... I don't have much (if any) contact with my son's from first marriage, long story. But in the past week I had a conversation (if you can consider FaceBook a conversation), but you take what you can get, with John. I had asked for a newer picture of my grandson (as I don't have contact in person) and found out that he has a second child (meaning I have a second grandchild). He was a little surprised I did not know that (since he didn't bother to tell me not sure where he thought I would hear it from), just saying.
Anyway after about 25 years my exwive contracts me on facebook (gotta love FaceBook!) to tell me to leave the kids alone as they want no cotract with me. Now since John had been sending me messages for about a week ,and I would answer, I thought he wanted some sort of contact (even if not in person),,,,but when I got her message it took the wind out of me and I keep playing her message over and over in my mind.
Guess it was not meant to be, I would have thought after all this time and them being adults now they could think and talk for themselves, but it seems that is not the case.
Anyway after about 25 years my exwive contracts me on facebook (gotta love FaceBook!) to tell me to leave the kids alone as they want no cotract with me. Now since John had been sending me messages for about a week ,and I would answer, I thought he wanted some sort of contact (even if not in person),,,,but when I got her message it took the wind out of me and I keep playing her message over and over in my mind.
Guess it was not meant to be, I would have thought after all this time and them being adults now they could think and talk for themselves, but it seems that is not the case.
Thursday 15 September 2011
mental illness continued
Words can hurt
Words like "crazy," "cuckoo," "psycho," "wacko" and "nutso" are just a few examples of words that keep the stigma of mental illness alive. These words belittle and offend people with mental health problems. Many of us use them without intending any harm. Just as we wouldn't mock someone for having a physical illness like cancer or heart disease, it is cruel to make fun of someone with a mental illness.
Mental illness in the media
People with mental disorders are, many times, not described accurately or realistically in the media. Movies, television and books often present people with mental illnesses as dangerous or unstable. News stories sometimes highlight mental illness to create a sensation in a news report, even if the mental illness is not relevant to the story. Advertisers use words like "crazy" to convey that their prices are unrealistically low and to suggest the consumer can take advantage of them.
You can help change the way mental illness is talked about in the media by speaking up.
Recognizing the problem
Use the STOP criteria to recognize attitudes and actions that support the stigma of mental illness. It's easy. Just ask yourself if what you hear:
Other things you can do
All of us can help the way people think about mental illness.
Start with yourself. Be careful about your own choice of words. Use accurate and sensitive words when talking about people with mental illness. Your positive attitude can affect everyone with whom you have contact.
Try to influence all the people in your life constructively. Whenever you hear people say things that show they do not really understand mental illness, use the opportunity to share with them some of the information that you have.
We have already changed the way we refer to women, people of colour and people with physical disabilities. Why stop there?
Do you want more information?
If you want to learn more about mental illness or how to combat the stigma surrounding it, contact your local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.
1 David R Offord et al. (1996). “One-Year Prevalence of Psychiatric Disorder in Ontarians 15 to 64 Years of Age,”Canadian Journal of Psychiatry 41 (9): 559-63
Words like "crazy," "cuckoo," "psycho," "wacko" and "nutso" are just a few examples of words that keep the stigma of mental illness alive. These words belittle and offend people with mental health problems. Many of us use them without intending any harm. Just as we wouldn't mock someone for having a physical illness like cancer or heart disease, it is cruel to make fun of someone with a mental illness.
Mental illness in the media
People with mental disorders are, many times, not described accurately or realistically in the media. Movies, television and books often present people with mental illnesses as dangerous or unstable. News stories sometimes highlight mental illness to create a sensation in a news report, even if the mental illness is not relevant to the story. Advertisers use words like "crazy" to convey that their prices are unrealistically low and to suggest the consumer can take advantage of them.
You can help change the way mental illness is talked about in the media by speaking up.
Recognizing the problem
Use the STOP criteria to recognize attitudes and actions that support the stigma of mental illness. It's easy. Just ask yourself if what you hear:
- Stereotypes people with mental illness (that is, assumes they are all alike rather than individuals)?
- Trivializes or belittles people with mental illness and / or the illness itself?
- Offends people with mental illness by insulting them?
- Patronizes people with mental illness by treating them as if they were not as good as other people?
Other things you can do
All of us can help the way people think about mental illness.
Start with yourself. Be careful about your own choice of words. Use accurate and sensitive words when talking about people with mental illness. Your positive attitude can affect everyone with whom you have contact.
Try to influence all the people in your life constructively. Whenever you hear people say things that show they do not really understand mental illness, use the opportunity to share with them some of the information that you have.
We have already changed the way we refer to women, people of colour and people with physical disabilities. Why stop there?
Do you want more information?
If you want to learn more about mental illness or how to combat the stigma surrounding it, contact your local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.
1 David R Offord et al. (1996). “One-Year Prevalence of Psychiatric Disorder in Ontarians 15 to 64 Years of Age,”Canadian Journal of Psychiatry 41 (9): 559-63
mental illness
Mental illness is common. Studies indicate that in any given year, one in every five Canadian adults under age 65 will have a mental health problem1. Mental illnesses account for a large percentage of hospital stays every year. Yet, in spite of the fact that every Canadian knows someone who has been, or will be, affected by mental illness, few people know very much about it.
It is human nature to fear what we don't understand. As such, mental illness is feared by many people and, unfortunately, still carries a stigma (a stigma is defined as a mark or sign of disgrace). Because of this stigma, many people hesitate to get help for a mental health problem for fear of being looked down upon. It is unfortunate that this happens because effective treatment exists for almost all mental illnesses. Worse, the stigma experienced by people with a mental illness can be more destructive than the illness itself.
If you want to help remove the social stigma of mental illness, we hope this pamphlet will give you some useful information and ideas.
The myths of mental illness
There are many myths about mental illness. Until people learn the truth, they will continue to deny that mental illness exists at all or to avoid the topic entirely.
How much do you know about mental illness? Here are some of the common myths -and truths.
It is human nature to fear what we don't understand. As such, mental illness is feared by many people and, unfortunately, still carries a stigma (a stigma is defined as a mark or sign of disgrace). Because of this stigma, many people hesitate to get help for a mental health problem for fear of being looked down upon. It is unfortunate that this happens because effective treatment exists for almost all mental illnesses. Worse, the stigma experienced by people with a mental illness can be more destructive than the illness itself.
If you want to help remove the social stigma of mental illness, we hope this pamphlet will give you some useful information and ideas.
The myths of mental illness
There are many myths about mental illness. Until people learn the truth, they will continue to deny that mental illness exists at all or to avoid the topic entirely.
How much do you know about mental illness? Here are some of the common myths -and truths.
- People with mental illness are violent and dangerous. The truth is that, as a group, mentally ill people are no more violent than any other group. In fact, they are far more likely to be the victims of violence than to be violent themselves.
- People with mental illness are poor and/or less intelligent. Many studies show that most mentally ill people have average or above-average intelligence. Mental illness, like physical illness, can affect anyone regardless of intelligence, social class or income level.
- Mental illness is caused by a personal weakness. A mental illness is not a character flaw. It is an illness, and it has nothing to do with being weak or lacking will-power. Although people with mental illness can play a big part in their own recovery, they did not choose to become ill, and they are not lazy because they cannot just "snap out of it."
- Mental illness is a single, rare disorder. Mental illness is not a single disease but a broad classification for many disorders. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders and organic brain disorders can cause misery, tears and missed opportunities for thousands of Canadians.
Sunday 14 August 2011
Everyone tells me I am "quiet" the past few days, my wife, my father in law,,,the reason I think I am "quiet" is becaue I have ,no energy and I just feel flat.
I go through motions of doing some house work (my job now that I am home on a daily basis) and somedays I make it through while others I don't. My kness hurt from the time I get up and that sucks all the energy out of me along with the heat. I don't think I would know what to do if I woke up and had no pain anymore it has been so long (although I am certainly willing to give it a try, no problem there).
I have not heard from the Dr's office yet since they did all the tests. Although not looking forward to another operation, I am hoping he says that there is something he can do to relieve some of the pain.
I go through motions of doing some house work (my job now that I am home on a daily basis) and somedays I make it through while others I don't. My kness hurt from the time I get up and that sucks all the energy out of me along with the heat. I don't think I would know what to do if I woke up and had no pain anymore it has been so long (although I am certainly willing to give it a try, no problem there).
I have not heard from the Dr's office yet since they did all the tests. Although not looking forward to another operation, I am hoping he says that there is something he can do to relieve some of the pain.
Imagine that -- for every day that goes by, it seems like I get a day older.
Wednesday 3 August 2011
making it work
Depression drains your energy, hope, and drive, making it difficult to do what you need to feel better. But while overcoming depression isn’t quick or easy, it’s far from impossible. You can’t beat it through sheer willpower, but you do have some control—even if your depression is severe and stubbornly persistent.
You can make a huge dent in your depression with simple lifestyle changes: exercising every day, avoiding the urge to isolate, challenging the negative voices in your head, eating healthy food instead of the junk you crave, and carving out time for rest and relaxation. Feeling better takes time, but you can get there if you make positive choices for yourself each day and draw on the support of others.
Recovering from depression requires action. But taking action when you’re depressed is hard. In fact, just thinking about the things you should do to feel better, like going for a walk or spending time with friends, can be exhausting.
It’s the Catch-22 of depression recovery. The things that help the most are the things that are most difficult to do. But there’s a difference between difficult and impossible.
The key to depression recovery is to start with a few small goals and slowly build from there. Draw upon whatever resources you have. You may not have much energy, but you probably have enough to take a short walk around the block or pick up the phone to call a loved one.
Take things one day at a time and reward yourself for each accomplishment. The steps may seem small, but they’ll quickly add up. And for all the energy you put in to your depression recovery, you’ll get back much more in return.
You can make a huge dent in your depression with simple lifestyle changes: exercising every day, avoiding the urge to isolate, challenging the negative voices in your head, eating healthy food instead of the junk you crave, and carving out time for rest and relaxation. Feeling better takes time, but you can get there if you make positive choices for yourself each day and draw on the support of others.
Recovering from depression requires action. But taking action when you’re depressed is hard. In fact, just thinking about the things you should do to feel better, like going for a walk or spending time with friends, can be exhausting.
It’s the Catch-22 of depression recovery. The things that help the most are the things that are most difficult to do. But there’s a difference between difficult and impossible.
The key to depression recovery is to start with a few small goals and slowly build from there. Draw upon whatever resources you have. You may not have much energy, but you probably have enough to take a short walk around the block or pick up the phone to call a loved one.
Take things one day at a time and reward yourself for each accomplishment. The steps may seem small, but they’ll quickly add up. And for all the energy you put in to your depression recovery, you’ll get back much more in return.
Tuesday 26 July 2011
Tests
I went today to have xrays of my hips and knees and to have an injection in my hip to see where all the pain is coming from as my doctor wasn't sure if the arthritic pain was actually coming from my hip or from the knee that was replaced 2 years ago. I think he was hoping it would prove to be coming as a result of needing my hip replaced and not from the knee (although since I had fallen and loosened it he had a feeling it might just be the knee).
The xrays were not what I thought they were supposed to be, but then neither was the freezing in my hip.
I had expected the whole thing to take about 3 hrs or so to complete fully, but it was only about 30 minutes. Although I am not sure they did the weight bearing tests that he had wanted them to do (hopefully the ones they did will suffice as I really wouldn't want to have to do it again). Anyway the pain in my hip went away (due to the freezing) but stayed in my knee, indicating that the arthritic pain I suffer from is coming from there.
I was hoping for the opposite as I do not want any more work done on my knees, but then again I really don't want this constant pain either!
So anyway I guess I wait for his call to see what if anything he wants to do next.
The xrays were not what I thought they were supposed to be, but then neither was the freezing in my hip.
I had expected the whole thing to take about 3 hrs or so to complete fully, but it was only about 30 minutes. Although I am not sure they did the weight bearing tests that he had wanted them to do (hopefully the ones they did will suffice as I really wouldn't want to have to do it again). Anyway the pain in my hip went away (due to the freezing) but stayed in my knee, indicating that the arthritic pain I suffer from is coming from there.
I was hoping for the opposite as I do not want any more work done on my knees, but then again I really don't want this constant pain either!
So anyway I guess I wait for his call to see what if anything he wants to do next.
Tuesday 19 July 2011
Sleep Disorder
I have not been sleeping much lately (well lately probably isn't the right word as I have never slept well for as long as I can remember) but it seems my nights and days are all mixed up. It is hard at times to stay awake during the day and then lay awake all night as well. It takes it's toll after awhile. I take sleeping pills, but they only seem to knock me out for an hour or so (which I guess at least I can say I get an hr or two if lucky of steady sleep). If it wasn't for the cat naps during the day I probably would not be functioning at all.
There are all kinds of sleep disorders such as:
It is important to recognize that though the symptoms of sleep disorders may be similar -- including excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue -- the causes may be quite distinct. Discover the varying subtleties of sleep disorders and learn some of the basic symptoms for each.
There are all kinds of sleep disorders such as:
Sleep Disorder Basics
It is important to recognize that though the symptoms of sleep disorders may be similar -- including excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue -- the causes may be quite distinct. Discover the varying subtleties of sleep disorders and learn some of the basic symptoms for each.
- Insomnia
- Acute Insomnia
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Narcolepsy
- Snoring
- Sleep Apnea
- Central Sleep Apnea
- Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS)
- Bedwetting
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Thought for the Day
“No one can depress you.
No one can make you anxious.
No one can hurt your feelings.
No one can make you anything
other than what you allow inside.”
No one can make you anxious.
No one can hurt your feelings.
No one can make you anything
other than what you allow inside.”
Friday 8 July 2011
Journal Entry
I have been experiencing a lot of arthritic pain in both my hip and my knee on the left side. It is not clear yet which is the culprit for the pain. So on July 26 I am having a procedure of injecting freezing in my hip and or knee(I cannot remember which joint he indicated would be getting the injection). When he talked about it it seemed like a simple procedure but after looking it up it seems a lot more than what I thought. Oh well "no pain, no gain" is what they say and if this leads to eventually easing the pain then I guess I am up for it.
Medial Branch Block
A facet joint injection serves several purposes. First, by placing numbing medicine into the joint, the amount of immediate pain relief you experience will help diagnose the joint as a source of your pain. That is, if you obtain relief of your main pain while the facet joints are numb, then these joints are likely your pain source. Furthermore, time-release cortisone will be injected into these joints to reduce any presumed inflammation, which can, on many occasions, provide long-term pain relief.
Sunday 3 July 2011
Journal entry- Sad Face
Sad face, that is what my wife keeps calling me,,,,,not sure what that means,,,,,,,she says I look sad all the time. I don't seem to be aware of it, guess it is a part of me now a days.
We had purchased a patio fire pit and this weekend we had 3 outdoor fires, sat around them and it was really nice. There is something about sipping wine and watching a fire burn.
Our Buddy went for a walk by himself on Saturday morning, 5 houses up the road. He had wandered out through the back fence (needless to say who left it open) . He had passed through the back woods and then out through the neighbors yards. Two rabbits were out in one of the yards but apparently he chose not to stay and play with them. It took us awhile to find him, but he had stopped in one yard to play up to the owners cat.
We had purchased a patio fire pit and this weekend we had 3 outdoor fires, sat around them and it was really nice. There is something about sipping wine and watching a fire burn.
Our Buddy went for a walk by himself on Saturday morning, 5 houses up the road. He had wandered out through the back fence (needless to say who left it open) . He had passed through the back woods and then out through the neighbors yards. Two rabbits were out in one of the yards but apparently he chose not to stay and play with them. It took us awhile to find him, but he had stopped in one yard to play up to the owners cat.
Tuesday 28 June 2011
Journal Entry-Knee/Hip?
If you have never had a knee replacement, then DON'T. OK, maybe taking advice from me is not in your best interests. I have had 4 done since 2001 and now I am paying for it with Chronic Arthritis.
I can hardly walk and when I do it zaps my energy. I do have a walker but it really doesn't help alleviate the pain, just gives me some stability (if I actually use it that is).
I get one good walk in and that is the end of me for the day, although I force myself to walk more but it kills me and then at night I am off to bed at 9,only place I can get a little bit of relief.
My hip has also been extremely painful lately, my orthopedic surgeon is not quite sure at this point if I need my hip replaced first or my knee redone. He will be doing a test to pinpoint where the pain is actually coming from before he decides which to do.
My wife has laughingly suggested I order a "scooter" for scooting around in! (Although she says I should hang tight til after my next operation to see if it helps or not, but I may be scooting around sooner rather than later!)
I can hardly walk and when I do it zaps my energy. I do have a walker but it really doesn't help alleviate the pain, just gives me some stability (if I actually use it that is).
I get one good walk in and that is the end of me for the day, although I force myself to walk more but it kills me and then at night I am off to bed at 9,only place I can get a little bit of relief.
My hip has also been extremely painful lately, my orthopedic surgeon is not quite sure at this point if I need my hip replaced first or my knee redone. He will be doing a test to pinpoint where the pain is actually coming from before he decides which to do.
My wife has laughingly suggested I order a "scooter" for scooting around in! (Although she says I should hang tight til after my next operation to see if it helps or not, but I may be scooting around sooner rather than later!)
Thursday 23 June 2011
Journal Entry
People with deep depression often do not realize how we hurt people who care for us greatly.
Often we think we are the only ones that we hurt, we change who we were without realizing it.
I am not the same person I was, I have no motivation, no memory of what I do sometimes, no energy to do much of anything. We are doing our basement over, well mostly my son and my wife are doing the renovations, as I have little or no energy to do things. Normally I would want to have it done by now(I was always the one to get things done rather than wait for someone to help me).
Often we think we are the only ones that we hurt, we change who we were without realizing it.
I am not the same person I was, I have no motivation, no memory of what I do sometimes, no energy to do much of anything. We are doing our basement over, well mostly my son and my wife are doing the renovations, as I have little or no energy to do things. Normally I would want to have it done by now(I was always the one to get things done rather than wait for someone to help me).
Physician urges collaboration over fee-for-service model
Big changes are needed to fix our ailing mental health-care system, a Halifax family doctor says.
For example, the way doctors are paid doesn’t allow them to take time with people, said Ajantha Jayabarathan, better known as Dr. A.J.
She and other general practitioners are paid for every patient they see, a system called fee-forservice. That may work for simple problems, but the complexity of treating mental illness is another matter.
The collaboration of many practitioners, from social workers to psychiatrists, is needed, Jayabarathan said in an interview Wednesday.
“Already they (the province and Doctors Nova Scotia) are looking at a different way to pay people," she said.
“For instance . . . I meet with a social worker, psychologist or a psychiatrist for an hour to discuss patients, or let’s say they came to my clinic once a month and we all work together. The whole system has been turned around."
Collaborative care is at the heart of a national conference that starts today in Halifax.
Jayabarathan, who will cochair the 12th Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Care Conference, is passionate about the concept.
“I think what it will take is willingness, interest and people stepping forward to say, ‘I think we’re ready to do something like this.’ " A lack of health-care providers or resources isn’t the problem. It’s a matter of using those resources more effectively.
“We’re drowning in a sea of plenty," said Jayabarathan, who has practised in Halifax for 25 years.
“Family doctors don’t work enough with psychologists and vice versa to really understand each other’s expertise. You are unlikely to use a resource that you don’t know much or anything about, even if they work down the hall from you."
The collaborative effort must go beyond the people providing the care, said Dr. Ian Slayter, director of psychiatric services for the Capital district health authority.
For the patient’s privacy and other reasons, the family or other people close to the patient are often shut out, Slayter said Wednesday. Patient confidentiality is important, but addressing that issue can be as simple as asking for consent.
“The patient benefits because they will get better support from their family or whoever supports them," said Slayter, who will co-chair the conference with Jayabarathan.
“Their practitioners and clinicians will be better informed about what’s actually going on with the patient. Because what I see in the office and what the family sees at home can be different."
And family members benefit because they’re included in the process.
“They not only feel more effective but they get help in dealing with their own anxieties and the difficulties they have dealing with a person with a serious illness," Slayter said.
Next week, Capital Health is expected to approve treatment guidelines that include a duty of care to the family, Slayter said.
These guidelines will be distributed to practitioners and health centres.
A group from the Meriden Family Programme in Birmingham, England, has been training a Capital Health team in its collaborative family approach, Slayter said.
The Collaborative Mental Health Care Conference runs from today to Saturday at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax. Speakers and workshops will include officials from the Mental Health Commission of Canada, local practitioners and people who have used the mental health system.
The conference is open to the public, but registration and fees apply, although efforts will be made to make the event as accessible as possible. About 350 people were registered by Wednesday, Jayabarathan said. For more information, go to www.sharedcare. ca.
For example, the way doctors are paid doesn’t allow them to take time with people, said Ajantha Jayabarathan, better known as Dr. A.J.
She and other general practitioners are paid for every patient they see, a system called fee-forservice. That may work for simple problems, but the complexity of treating mental illness is another matter.
The collaboration of many practitioners, from social workers to psychiatrists, is needed, Jayabarathan said in an interview Wednesday.
“Already they (the province and Doctors Nova Scotia) are looking at a different way to pay people," she said.
“For instance . . . I meet with a social worker, psychologist or a psychiatrist for an hour to discuss patients, or let’s say they came to my clinic once a month and we all work together. The whole system has been turned around."
Collaborative care is at the heart of a national conference that starts today in Halifax.
Jayabarathan, who will cochair the 12th Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Care Conference, is passionate about the concept.
“I think what it will take is willingness, interest and people stepping forward to say, ‘I think we’re ready to do something like this.’ " A lack of health-care providers or resources isn’t the problem. It’s a matter of using those resources more effectively.
“We’re drowning in a sea of plenty," said Jayabarathan, who has practised in Halifax for 25 years.
“Family doctors don’t work enough with psychologists and vice versa to really understand each other’s expertise. You are unlikely to use a resource that you don’t know much or anything about, even if they work down the hall from you."
The collaborative effort must go beyond the people providing the care, said Dr. Ian Slayter, director of psychiatric services for the Capital district health authority.
For the patient’s privacy and other reasons, the family or other people close to the patient are often shut out, Slayter said Wednesday. Patient confidentiality is important, but addressing that issue can be as simple as asking for consent.
“The patient benefits because they will get better support from their family or whoever supports them," said Slayter, who will co-chair the conference with Jayabarathan.
“Their practitioners and clinicians will be better informed about what’s actually going on with the patient. Because what I see in the office and what the family sees at home can be different."
And family members benefit because they’re included in the process.
“They not only feel more effective but they get help in dealing with their own anxieties and the difficulties they have dealing with a person with a serious illness," Slayter said.
Next week, Capital Health is expected to approve treatment guidelines that include a duty of care to the family, Slayter said.
These guidelines will be distributed to practitioners and health centres.
A group from the Meriden Family Programme in Birmingham, England, has been training a Capital Health team in its collaborative family approach, Slayter said.
The Collaborative Mental Health Care Conference runs from today to Saturday at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax. Speakers and workshops will include officials from the Mental Health Commission of Canada, local practitioners and people who have used the mental health system.
The conference is open to the public, but registration and fees apply, although efforts will be made to make the event as accessible as possible. About 350 people were registered by Wednesday, Jayabarathan said. For more information, go to www.sharedcare. ca.
Saturday 18 June 2011
coping with long-term depression
If you're coping with long-term depression, you may wonder why you can't feel better. Other people you know may have recovered from their depression more easily -- a few months of therapy or antidepressants and they were back to normal. But it hasn't been like that for you. No matter what treatment you try, you're still suffering.
There is no one reason for treatment-resistant depression. For most people, it's probably a combination of different factors. Some of it is beyond your control, such as the genes you were born with. But there are factors that you can control.
According to experts, here are the reasons why depression can sometimes be hard to treat.- Not staying on a medicine long enough. Antidepressants can take as long as six to eight weeks before they fully take effect. Unfortunately, many people -- and sometimes even doctors -- give up on a depression medicine too early, before it's had a chance to help.
- Skipping doses. If you don't take your antidepressant, it can't help you. You'll never really know if a depression medicine is working unless you take it exactly as prescribed.
- Unpleasant side effects. Many people who have side effects just stop taking their antidepressants. That isn't a good idea. Instead, talk to your doctor and get some help. You might be able to eliminate or ease the side effects and still get relief from your depression. Also, keep in mind that side effects tend to decrease over time.
- Drug interactions. Some other medicines don't mix well with antidepressants. When taken at the same time, neither one may work normally. In some cases, interactions could even be dangerous.
- The wrong medicine or the wrong dose. Antidepressant drugs work very differently in different people. Unfortunately, there's no way to predict how well a depression medicine will work without trying it. So finding the right medicine, at the right dose, takes trial and error -- and occasionally, some time. Many people give up before they find the right one.
- Your genes. Researchers have found a gene that they believe may make depression harder to treat in some people.
- Other medical conditions. Some medical conditions -- like heart disease, cancer, or thyroid problems -- can contribute to depression. Other conditions, like anorexia, can too. It's important that you treat any underlying medical problems in addition to your depression.
- Alcohol or drug abuse. Substance abuse often goes hand-in-hand with depression. It can trigger depression or make it worse. If you have a substance abuse problem, you need to get help.
- The wrong diagnosis. Some people are simply misdiagnosed with treatment-resistant depression. They might actually have another condition, like bipolar disorder or an anxiety disorder. This is why it's so important to work with an expert.
Thursday 16 June 2011
HOWIE MANDEL
BANFF, Alta. — Canadian funnyman Howie Mandel had them rolling in the aisles in Banff this week, even though the subject was really no laughing matter.
The actor, comic and game show host received the award of distinction at a ceremony at the Banff World Media Festival — an annual gathering of TV writers, producers, broadcasters and stars.
“I have mental health issues as it is and as I sit and talk to you I am medicated so the highs and the lows aren’t really bothering me. I’m just floating in the middle," acknowledged Mandel, 55, in a question and answer session before a large audience.
“I am tortured but I came to this game pretty tortured," he said, then smiled and asked: “Why are you laughing at me when I said I’m tortured?"
Mandel has both obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and has written about both in his autobiography Here’s the Deal: Don’t Touch Me.
But Mandel finds it therapeutic to talk about his upbringing in the Toronto area where he says he was always a loner and had no friends.
“I weighed 89 pounds and my voice didn’t change and I didn’t shave and I looked like a girl. I could stand in the ladies room and brush my hair. That’s how I met my wife. Second date she found out I was a guy," he said with his trademark laugh. “I don’t want to touch things. I was always nervous and neurotic and afraid."
“I wouldn’t tie my shoelaces at school.
If mine came undone, I wouldn’t pick them up to retie them because the laces were on the floor," Mandel said.
“I’d be angry. I would be anxious and angry and then I’d go home and take a shower until my Mom would say it was dinner time. I would be in the shower for hours and I’d use every towel."
His mental health issues don’t appear to have held him back in his career. He did gigs at Yuk Yuk’s comedy club and spent six seasons on St. Elsewhere. He also began hosting Deal or No Deal which was difficult for a man who doesn’t want to shake hands for fear of germs.
“I always felt rejected. Even today you feel you just always want to keep working. You think tomorrow is going to be your last day," he said.
“I have dark times. It inhibits everything I do on a day-to-day basis. Every waking moment it’s part of who I am," Mandel added.
“How does it affect my work? It affects every day and I think about it. Right now I’m hoping you don’t have any viruses," he said with a chuckle.
Mandel credits the support of Terry, his wife of 35 years, for helping him deal with his problems.
“It’s hard to go through that with anybody who has mental health issues. It’s hard to live with somebody like me."
It was Terry who told him he should become the host of Deal or No Deal, something he thought would end his career.
The actor, comic and game show host received the award of distinction at a ceremony at the Banff World Media Festival — an annual gathering of TV writers, producers, broadcasters and stars.
“I have mental health issues as it is and as I sit and talk to you I am medicated so the highs and the lows aren’t really bothering me. I’m just floating in the middle," acknowledged Mandel, 55, in a question and answer session before a large audience.
“I am tortured but I came to this game pretty tortured," he said, then smiled and asked: “Why are you laughing at me when I said I’m tortured?"
Mandel has both obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and has written about both in his autobiography Here’s the Deal: Don’t Touch Me.
But Mandel finds it therapeutic to talk about his upbringing in the Toronto area where he says he was always a loner and had no friends.
“I weighed 89 pounds and my voice didn’t change and I didn’t shave and I looked like a girl. I could stand in the ladies room and brush my hair. That’s how I met my wife. Second date she found out I was a guy," he said with his trademark laugh. “I don’t want to touch things. I was always nervous and neurotic and afraid."
“I wouldn’t tie my shoelaces at school.
If mine came undone, I wouldn’t pick them up to retie them because the laces were on the floor," Mandel said.
“I’d be angry. I would be anxious and angry and then I’d go home and take a shower until my Mom would say it was dinner time. I would be in the shower for hours and I’d use every towel."
His mental health issues don’t appear to have held him back in his career. He did gigs at Yuk Yuk’s comedy club and spent six seasons on St. Elsewhere. He also began hosting Deal or No Deal which was difficult for a man who doesn’t want to shake hands for fear of germs.
“I always felt rejected. Even today you feel you just always want to keep working. You think tomorrow is going to be your last day," he said.
“I have dark times. It inhibits everything I do on a day-to-day basis. Every waking moment it’s part of who I am," Mandel added.
“How does it affect my work? It affects every day and I think about it. Right now I’m hoping you don’t have any viruses," he said with a chuckle.
Mandel credits the support of Terry, his wife of 35 years, for helping him deal with his problems.
“It’s hard to go through that with anybody who has mental health issues. It’s hard to live with somebody like me."
It was Terry who told him he should become the host of Deal or No Deal, something he thought would end his career.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
Support
Support can come from groups or family.
Helping someone with depression can be a challenge. If someone in your life has depression, you may feel helpless and you may wonder what to do. Learn how to offer support and understanding and how to help your loved one get the resources to cope with depression. With the right approach, depression usually gets better. People with depression may not recognize or acknowledge that they're depressed. They may not be aware of signs and symptoms of depression, or they may feel too hopeless to address the issue. People with depression may think that how they feel is normal and not the result of a mental health condition. All too often, people feel ashamed about their depression and mistakenly believe they should be able to overcome it with willpower alone. But depression seldom gets better without treatment and may get worse. Help the person you care about recognize the symptoms of depression and get treatment:
Talk to the person about what you've noticed and why you're concerned.
Explain that depression is a medical condition, not a personal flaw or weakness — and that it usually gets better with treatment.
Suggest that the person see a professional — a medical doctor or a mental health provider such as a licensed counselor or psychologist.
Offer to help prepare a list of questions for the person to discuss in an initial appointment with a doctor or mental health provider.
Express your willingness to help by setting up appointments, going with the person to appointments and attending family therapy sessions.
Helping someone with depression can be a challenge. If someone in your life has depression, you may feel helpless and you may wonder what to do. Learn how to offer support and understanding and how to help your loved one get the resources to cope with depression. With the right approach, depression usually gets better. People with depression may not recognize or acknowledge that they're depressed. They may not be aware of signs and symptoms of depression, or they may feel too hopeless to address the issue. People with depression may think that how they feel is normal and not the result of a mental health condition. All too often, people feel ashamed about their depression and mistakenly believe they should be able to overcome it with willpower alone. But depression seldom gets better without treatment and may get worse. Help the person you care about recognize the symptoms of depression and get treatment:
Friday 10 June 2011
Journal Entry
Last Tuesday night at our group meeting most of the people there said they had a good week, all was well (as pertains to them) although a few had a difficult time. As we went over their week it seemed to be a medication problem they were having instead of a "feeling" problem.
Some people say energy is key to helping with depression, (but for me you must have energy to do something in the first place).
- they do go hand in hand as once one breaks down so does the other and some were on new meds others the old ones seemed not to be working
Some people say energy is key to helping with depression, (but for me you must have energy to do something in the first place).
Monday 6 June 2011
Train the Trainor Course- "Your Way to Wellness"
For the past four days I was attending a "Trainer course on "Your way to wellness" that I had been invited to attend by Capital Health.
It is the Canadian version from Stanford University. The course is a "Trainers" course, so once you take the course you can then teach it to others. It is Licenced by Capital Health.
The course talks to people with chronic diseases, as with depression, people with chronic conditions have similar concerns and problems, their diseases have the same impact on there lives and emotions.
So now I wait for requests to go and teach!
It is the Canadian version from Stanford University. The course is a "Trainers" course, so once you take the course you can then teach it to others. It is Licenced by Capital Health.
The course talks to people with chronic diseases, as with depression, people with chronic conditions have similar concerns and problems, their diseases have the same impact on there lives and emotions.
So now I wait for requests to go and teach!
Wednesday 1 June 2011
Mental health patients waiting in vain for help
I am writing in regard to the May 26 article “Capital Health prepares for strike." In anticipation of a nursing strike, Kathy Mac-Neil, a vice-president with Capital District Health Authority, was quoted as saying that “life and limb" emergencies would not be turned away, but in areas such as mental health, the authority would “probably restrict those to emergency admissions only." What a joke!
Ms. MacNeil has obviously never tried to access mental health services for a friend or family member in Nova Scotia.
As everyone who has ever tried to do so is painfully aware, there is no way to get timely access to mental health services in our province other than in an emergency situation. In order to access even remotely timely services, people have to be considered an immediate danger to themselves or others.
Even if a mental health professional thinks someone may become a danger to self or others if their condition deteriorates, that is not reason enough to be provided with immediate help, according to the provincial Mental Health Standards adopted by the province in 2009. According to these standards, there are four levels of urgency to be considered in the acceptable wait times. Level 0 is classified as “emergent." In those cases, a person must be an “immediate and significant risk of harm to self or others" or have “acute psychosis or mania which cannot be managed in the community." The examples given in the standards are “acute suicidal thoughts with intent," “acute psychosis" or “acute mania." In these cases, the referral process is to send the person to a local emergency department if it’s open.
Level 1 is classified as “urgent." In this category, the target wait time is a week. In this case, the person should be a current risk to self or others, but judged “safe" provided treatment is made available within the next seven days. This person should have “escalating psychosis or mania with a risk of rapid deterioration and need for hospitalization within a week or two."
Examples are “acute suicidal thoughts," “mania," “hypo-mania" or “psychosis."
The Level 2 classification is considered “semi-urgent" with acceptable wait times of a month. These people can be “unstable with risk of acute decompensation due to unstable illness, personality or circumstances." They can be “engaging in new or increased risk behaviours due to mental illness," and there can be “acute deterioration in functioning and role performance due to mental illness." According to the Mental Health Standards of Nova Scotia, it’s totally acceptable to let these people wait 30 days for help.
Also deemed to not require treatment for up to 30 days are people who have “acute clinical depression." They can be “depressed with suicidal thoughts but no intent, plan or history of suicidal behaviour." They can be “single parents with no supports and unable to care for children due to depression." For these people, a month’s wait is acceptable, but according to the standards, a referral to Child Protection Services should be made.
Also falling into this category are parents with mental illnesses suspected of neglecting their children. According to the standards, it is appropriate to leave these people waiting for help up to 30 days!
Finally, we have Level 3, which is considered “regular."
These people are left waiting for services for up to three months or more. People who fall into this category are “chronic but stable patients where rapid deterioration is not imminent in the short term." These are people who are suffering from “depression, anxiety, anger problems, coping problems or personality disorders." They are expected to wait up to 90 days for help if the standards were being met. However, they are not!
In June of 2010, the Nova Scotia auditor general released his report of an investigation into the province’s mental health services system. He found that these standards, as lax as they are, are not being met more than 85 per cent of the time. He also said there was no plan by the Department of Health and Wellness to fix this situation.
I contend, and I expect most Nova Scotians would agree with me, that this is a completely unacceptable situation.
In its 2010-2011 Statement of Mandate, the Department of Health and Wellness made a commitment to “develop a plan to measure wait times." The “strategies to achieve (this) target" were to “continue to implement collaborative primary health teams providing services to mental health patients" and to “host an Atlantic Mental Health Summit to consider collaborative policy initiatives among key stakeholders." While the department is developing “a plan to measure wait times," people who are waiting for mental health services are committing suicide, suffering with their illnesses, creating untold hardship for themselves and their families, and giving up hope.
I am not talking about one or two per cent of the population here, but approximately 180,000 Nova Scotians. Whether or not Capital Health District nurses strike, while professionals sip coffee and listen to keynote speakers at the Atlantic Mental Health Summit, people suffering with mental illnesses will be waiting in vain for help.
John Roswell is program co-ordinator, Digby Clare Mental Health Volunteers (dcmhv@hotmail.com).
Ms. MacNeil has obviously never tried to access mental health services for a friend or family member in Nova Scotia.
As everyone who has ever tried to do so is painfully aware, there is no way to get timely access to mental health services in our province other than in an emergency situation. In order to access even remotely timely services, people have to be considered an immediate danger to themselves or others.
Even if a mental health professional thinks someone may become a danger to self or others if their condition deteriorates, that is not reason enough to be provided with immediate help, according to the provincial Mental Health Standards adopted by the province in 2009. According to these standards, there are four levels of urgency to be considered in the acceptable wait times. Level 0 is classified as “emergent." In those cases, a person must be an “immediate and significant risk of harm to self or others" or have “acute psychosis or mania which cannot be managed in the community." The examples given in the standards are “acute suicidal thoughts with intent," “acute psychosis" or “acute mania." In these cases, the referral process is to send the person to a local emergency department if it’s open.
Level 1 is classified as “urgent." In this category, the target wait time is a week. In this case, the person should be a current risk to self or others, but judged “safe" provided treatment is made available within the next seven days. This person should have “escalating psychosis or mania with a risk of rapid deterioration and need for hospitalization within a week or two."
Examples are “acute suicidal thoughts," “mania," “hypo-mania" or “psychosis."
The Level 2 classification is considered “semi-urgent" with acceptable wait times of a month. These people can be “unstable with risk of acute decompensation due to unstable illness, personality or circumstances." They can be “engaging in new or increased risk behaviours due to mental illness," and there can be “acute deterioration in functioning and role performance due to mental illness." According to the Mental Health Standards of Nova Scotia, it’s totally acceptable to let these people wait 30 days for help.
Also deemed to not require treatment for up to 30 days are people who have “acute clinical depression." They can be “depressed with suicidal thoughts but no intent, plan or history of suicidal behaviour." They can be “single parents with no supports and unable to care for children due to depression." For these people, a month’s wait is acceptable, but according to the standards, a referral to Child Protection Services should be made.
Also falling into this category are parents with mental illnesses suspected of neglecting their children. According to the standards, it is appropriate to leave these people waiting for help up to 30 days!
Finally, we have Level 3, which is considered “regular."
These people are left waiting for services for up to three months or more. People who fall into this category are “chronic but stable patients where rapid deterioration is not imminent in the short term." These are people who are suffering from “depression, anxiety, anger problems, coping problems or personality disorders." They are expected to wait up to 90 days for help if the standards were being met. However, they are not!
In June of 2010, the Nova Scotia auditor general released his report of an investigation into the province’s mental health services system. He found that these standards, as lax as they are, are not being met more than 85 per cent of the time. He also said there was no plan by the Department of Health and Wellness to fix this situation.
I contend, and I expect most Nova Scotians would agree with me, that this is a completely unacceptable situation.
In its 2010-2011 Statement of Mandate, the Department of Health and Wellness made a commitment to “develop a plan to measure wait times." The “strategies to achieve (this) target" were to “continue to implement collaborative primary health teams providing services to mental health patients" and to “host an Atlantic Mental Health Summit to consider collaborative policy initiatives among key stakeholders." While the department is developing “a plan to measure wait times," people who are waiting for mental health services are committing suicide, suffering with their illnesses, creating untold hardship for themselves and their families, and giving up hope.
I am not talking about one or two per cent of the population here, but approximately 180,000 Nova Scotians. Whether or not Capital Health District nurses strike, while professionals sip coffee and listen to keynote speakers at the Atlantic Mental Health Summit, people suffering with mental illnesses will be waiting in vain for help.
John Roswell is program co-ordinator, Digby Clare Mental Health Volunteers (dcmhv@hotmail.com).
Monday 30 May 2011
The Value of Exercise!
Need someone to talk to—someone who understands what it’s like to deal with depression? Joining a support group could be just the way to finding the people who understand what you're experiencing.
I was reading that in the states Dr,s believe so strongly in the benefits of exercise for depression that doctors are beginning to routinely prescribe pedometers to all patients screened for depression.
I was reading that in the states Dr,s believe so strongly in the benefits of exercise for depression that doctors are beginning to routinely prescribe pedometers to all patients screened for depression.
The pedometer program is not meant to replace medication or therapy that may be beneficial to the patients. Exercise works because it increases the feel-good chemicals in your brain. It also improves energy, relieves anxiety and helps sleep. Patients are encouraged to aim for 30 minutes or more of moderate physical activity, three to five days a week. The pedometer helps in this process because it provides direct feedback about even modest gains in activity and encourages patients to progress to more vigorous exercise, which may help their depression even more. HealthPartners Medical Group (HPMG)Have you successfully used exercise to help with your depression? What tips would you offer to others who are just beginning about how to get yourself motivated when you really don't feel like exercising?
Friday 27 May 2011
Journal Entry- Anger
This past Tuesday night at group we talked about anger. Anger comes in many forms and seemed to affect each person differently.
As we talked most people said that they felt that their anger is turned inward towards themselves, although a few said they did send it outward. Venting anger outward or inward is dangerous if you can't get help in dealing with it quickly, even if it is just talking it out with someone. Most were afraid that they may hurt themselves, or unwittlingly hurt someone else. Others have panic attacks when they hold their anger in.
Depression can show in a physical, mental, or emotional manner.Frustration turned inward could be a result of depression. Recurring anger often presents itself because there is another emotion not being dealt with. When you are afraid it is common to become angry.
As we talked most people said that they felt that their anger is turned inward towards themselves, although a few said they did send it outward. Venting anger outward or inward is dangerous if you can't get help in dealing with it quickly, even if it is just talking it out with someone. Most were afraid that they may hurt themselves, or unwittlingly hurt someone else. Others have panic attacks when they hold their anger in.
Depression can show in a physical, mental, or emotional manner.Frustration turned inward could be a result of depression. Recurring anger often presents itself because there is another emotion not being dealt with. When you are afraid it is common to become angry.
Tuesday 24 May 2011
Dr. Goldbloom-MentalI Illness
While mental illnesses are just one set of the many illnesses that can affect us, there is something that also sets them apart. When
Bob, your work colleague, breaks his leg, he’s still Bob, just wearing a cast to announce his injury, help him recover, and justify his crutches.
When Bob’s mind is broken by severe depression, is he still Bob to you – even though the depression has temporarily deprived Bob of his
abilities in a number of areas? Bob now has trouble being interested in work, enjoying the company of friends, concentrating, and making
decisions. His motivation is low, he isolates himself, and he seems kind of flat. So because it has changed Bob, it’s harder for you to see the
illness apart from him – even though with proper effective treatment, Bob should be like old Bob again.
What is our reaction to our friends and colleagues when they become mentally ill? Sadly, and in contrast to physical illness, it’s often
withdrawal. We back off just at the time they most need us to stay engaged. If they take time off work, we resent it. If they get hospitalized
for mental illness, we don’t visit. In many ways, it’s the exact opposite of what happens to Bob when his leg is broken.
Why should you care? At the individual human level, it’s about raising understanding and having compassion for friends, family and coworkers
during an especially difficult time. This is a set of problems found in every Canadian family.
Some years ago, I spoke with a group of about 50 employees who had worked together for some time about mental illness. At the end of the
session, one of them stood up and said, “I’ve worked here for 10 years. I have manic-depressive illness. Three times in the last 10 years,
I’ve had to take a couple of weeks off because I was ill. Each time when I came back, I knew you knew I had been ill. But each time, not one
of you came up to me and said the simple words, ‘How are you? What happened?’. I would have told you. It wasn’t a privacy issue. And it
would have meant so much to me.”
After she spoke, one by one every member of the group stood and said things like, “Well, my daughter has anorexia nervosa…actually, my
father was severely depressed…you know, my wife has been through post-partum depression”, etc. At the end of the session, we realized
that at some level, it was a personal issue for every person in the room. But it took one courageous person to stand up and talk about her
own experience. And I believe that once that door has been opened, people will walk right through it.
Everybody wins when people with mental illness and their families can talk about it and get the kindness, care and support that they would with any other form of
pain and human suffering.
Dr. Goldbloom is a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. He trained in medicine and psychiatry at McGill University
Commission of Canada
audiences. Dr. Goldbloom also completed an honours degree, majoring in Government, at Harvard University
Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar where he obtained an M.A. in Physiological Sciences.
Sunday 22 May 2011
Journal Entry
There are some side efforts created from taking medicine that are far worse than what the drugs were given to you for. You have to make up your mind if you want to come off of them if that becomes the case, alot of thought must go into this.
You also must look at the disability long term plan piece of things as well, if you come off your meds will they continue paying you as you need a d'"s note once year as to what treatments he/she has you on. For most people it will be an easy decision as they want the disability company to continue to pay you so you stay on the pills,to get paid.
We all know insurance companies can be a pain in the ass so we continue to take the meds so we do not have to explain the reasons why we are not on anything.
This may not make sense but the meds and insurance companies go hand in hand with each other, if you are on them you get paid easier than if you are not,,,,,,sad as it may be, but true.
You also must look at the disability long term plan piece of things as well, if you come off your meds will they continue paying you as you need a d'"s note once year as to what treatments he/she has you on. For most people it will be an easy decision as they want the disability company to continue to pay you so you stay on the pills,to get paid.
We all know insurance companies can be a pain in the ass so we continue to take the meds so we do not have to explain the reasons why we are not on anything.
This may not make sense but the meds and insurance companies go hand in hand with each other, if you are on them you get paid easier than if you are not,,,,,,sad as it may be, but true.
Thursday 19 May 2011
Journal Entry - Group meeting
From time to time we call in guest speakers to attend the Depression/Anxiety group that I attend and co-facilitate.
After a long process of trying to get the Crisis team to come in and talk to the group,and after emails and phone calls they did not let us down.
The information they provided was greatly appreciated and there were many questions It was not easy to get them to come to the group as they do over a 1000 calls a month and it sounded like they were very busy and trying to fit in time for someone to attend took some time to arrange.
They do a mobile team from 1pm to 1 am then the rest of the time they take calls in the centre. All calls are private and no record is kept of what was said withe the exception of your name, although of course you do not even have to give your real name.
The Crisis team consists of a police officer and a team member who as we were told can do a wellness check on people(which means that if you have not seen someone in awhile that suffers from mental illness you can call them and ask them to do a check on that person). They have to have the police offer with them when they make contact and have been given permission to enter the premise.
Under the Detention act they can detain you which means they can take you to the hospital if they deem it necessary.
I think as a group we need to get more people to come in to talk to us and answer questions but it seems very hard to get people to come and talk to groups such as ours. So far the guest speakers we have had in have been very beneficial.
After a long process of trying to get the Crisis team to come in and talk to the group,and after emails and phone calls they did not let us down.
The information they provided was greatly appreciated and there were many questions It was not easy to get them to come to the group as they do over a 1000 calls a month and it sounded like they were very busy and trying to fit in time for someone to attend took some time to arrange.
They do a mobile team from 1pm to 1 am then the rest of the time they take calls in the centre. All calls are private and no record is kept of what was said withe the exception of your name, although of course you do not even have to give your real name.
The Crisis team consists of a police officer and a team member who as we were told can do a wellness check on people(which means that if you have not seen someone in awhile that suffers from mental illness you can call them and ask them to do a check on that person). They have to have the police offer with them when they make contact and have been given permission to enter the premise.
Under the Detention act they can detain you which means they can take you to the hospital if they deem it necessary.
I think as a group we need to get more people to come in to talk to us and answer questions but it seems very hard to get people to come and talk to groups such as ours. So far the guest speakers we have had in have been very beneficial.
Monday 16 May 2011
Journal Entry- Starting to Conquer
Today is a good day as far as me being high on pills(my way of saying over medicated), but find today to be very tired, (OK not that unusual as I guess I am always tired!).Not quite ready yet to take away another dosage (hoping that will eventually give me back some pep when I do), but over all still a good day.
This is a harder battle than I thought it would be, well I never really knew what to expect but it is still hard going off the one pill onto another, then reducing dosage. One thing I find is that I am more hungry than usual,,ask my wife on that one (she's giving me that "look" each time I say I am hungry and grab something else to eat!) My last blood work for my cholesterol was good, not sure if it would be the same if I was to get it done right now!
This is a harder battle than I thought it would be, well I never really knew what to expect but it is still hard going off the one pill onto another, then reducing dosage. One thing I find is that I am more hungry than usual,,ask my wife on that one (she's giving me that "look" each time I say I am hungry and grab something else to eat!) My last blood work for my cholesterol was good, not sure if it would be the same if I was to get it done right now!
Sunday 15 May 2011
Journal Entry
Week 1 is behind me and so far it is a great feeling to be in control of your life (ok, maybe not fully in control yet). It took a few days but the last 2 have been great and today I have to say that I feel better than yesterday. If that continues it is certainly putting me in the right direction.
Sure I still get tired alot, but as long as it is just being tired, I can live with that. Not sure who has noticed a difference, but last night I managed to stay up till we both went to bed at the same time ,first time I was up past 9 in a very long time,,,lol.
Now comes the test to try to go with out one less Prozac pill. I might just wait a few days more to see if this feeling I have now continues or gets any better before opting to go lower still, not in a hurry to do it, just taking it slow and easy.
Just a note, this way is not for everyone, and I still say you must be very careful in doing it this way without your Dr's advice, unfortunately for some people (me included in this group) some doctors are notwilling in tune with their patients and the accumulating side effects that cause more harm than good.
Sure I still get tired alot, but as long as it is just being tired, I can live with that. Not sure who has noticed a difference, but last night I managed to stay up till we both went to bed at the same time ,first time I was up past 9 in a very long time,,,lol.
Now comes the test to try to go with out one less Prozac pill. I might just wait a few days more to see if this feeling I have now continues or gets any better before opting to go lower still, not in a hurry to do it, just taking it slow and easy.
Just a note, this way is not for everyone, and I still say you must be very careful in doing it this way without your Dr's advice, unfortunately for some people (me included in this group) some doctors are not
Friday 13 May 2011
Journal Entry-Giant Leap
I finally made the decision (after making it and changing it many times) to wean myself off of my overload of medications.
And yes for some of you who I have talked to about this same thing and told you never come off by yourself,,,ask your doctor first.... it falls into the old saying "do as I say, not what I do"!
It may come back to bite me (although it has only been a week since I reduced them), but it has not been as bad as I thought it might be. It can be a painful ,emotional ride, and at times you kick your ass for doing it, but when you feel you have been over medicated (and that the side effects are causing more harm than good) in the end you have to look out for yourself! You need to be in control, listen to your doctor, but in the end you have to be the one to make the decisions.
I am feeling a little more in control of myself, although still extremely tired, especially late day. I tried a can of Red Bull (you know the one that gives you wings!!), but that wasn't such a good idea! WAY too much caffiene! Will stick out another week at this level then decide if I need to go lower again. Stay tuned!
And yes for some of you who I have talked to about this same thing and told you never come off by yourself,,,ask your doctor first.... it falls into the old saying "do as I say, not what I do"!
It may come back to bite me (although it has only been a week since I reduced them), but it has not been as bad as I thought it might be. It can be a painful ,emotional ride, and at times you kick your ass for doing it, but when you feel you have been over medicated (and that the side effects are causing more harm than good) in the end you have to look out for yourself! You need to be in control, listen to your doctor, but in the end you have to be the one to make the decisions.
I am feeling a little more in control of myself, although still extremely tired, especially late day. I tried a can of Red Bull (you know the one that gives you wings!!), but that wasn't such a good idea! WAY too much caffiene! Will stick out another week at this level then decide if I need to go lower again. Stay tuned!
Wednesday 4 May 2011
Another Journal Entry
Family- if you have depression it is hard to get family to understand that depression is an illness and that you can not "catch it" , it is just something that you get, sometimes with or without an underlying cause, as well as being able to be passed down to you through genetics. Some will compare it with the normal type of depression that everyone feels at some point in their lives (like illness, death, losing a job) and expect that you should be able to "get over it soon" and not understand why you have not been able to do that.
If you make the leap and you tell your family that you have a mental illness, unfortunately for some there is often no contact from them, which hurts big time as they are the ones who you need the most during this path that you are on.
If they take it the wrong way, and all contact is lost the person with depression is often not sure how to make contact, as they are ashamed for starters and then wonder if they will be talked to or talked about.
Most times we are talked around and that hurts even more, if you can get one to understand then you have a bonus,,,,a bonus is a big thing for anyone that has depression.They don't come very often so the ones that do make a really huge difference for you in your day to day existence.
If you make the leap and you tell your family that you have a mental illness, unfortunately for some there is often no contact from them, which hurts big time as they are the ones who you need the most during this path that you are on.
If they take it the wrong way, and all contact is lost the person with depression is often not sure how to make contact, as they are ashamed for starters and then wonder if they will be talked to or talked about.
Most times we are talked around and that hurts even more, if you can get one to understand then you have a bonus,,,,a bonus is a big thing for anyone that has depression.They don't come very often so the ones that do make a really huge difference for you in your day to day existence.
Journal Entry
Anger,,,I know I talked about this already(a number of times actually), but it demands a second look.
It seems everyone in our group seems angry about something or someone.
Some are angry at their spouse (who tend not to understand the whole depression phenomenon.)
What to do when it does,,seems a hopeless merry-go-round. Trying to ride it out alone is not good. For me, I need to talk about it or else I make myself crazy.
Anger comes in all different styles and at all different times, the more you try to control it especially if you are at work, the worse it gets and eventually you will explode causing you to say something wrong to one of your co-workers.
This is one aspect of depression that I personally need to get a handle on although how to do that is taking a lot longer than I would like.
It seems everyone in our group seems angry about something or someone.
Some are angry at their spouse (who tend not to understand the whole depression phenomenon.)
What to do when it does,,seems a hopeless merry-go-round. Trying to ride it out alone is not good. For me, I need to talk about it or else I make myself crazy.
Anger comes in all different styles and at all different times, the more you try to control it especially if you are at work, the worse it gets and eventually you will explode causing you to say something wrong to one of your co-workers.
This is one aspect of depression that I personally need to get a handle on although how to do that is taking a lot longer than I would like.
Saturday 30 April 2011
Journal Entry
Saw my psychologist (actually she was away on vacation, so I saw a different one) yesterday who in my opinion panicked a bit and thought I should be hospitalized. So and after getting my wife out of work, down to the hospital we went and after seeing alot of people, they decided I did not need to be.
I did pick up a pointer or two while I was there, so was not a total waste of time, and my wife gave her two cents worth to the emergency psychologist (bet he got a few a pointers as well!).
I am going to get into a 6 week treatment program, which from what I hear is pretty good
but it is like everything else in the hospital the program will likely take 6 months to a year to get into.
I did pick up a pointer or two while I was there, so was not a total waste of time, and my wife gave her two cents worth to the emergency psychologist (bet he got a few a pointers as well!).
I am going to get into a 6 week treatment program, which from what I hear is pretty good
but it is like everything else in the hospital the program will likely take 6 months to a year to get into.
Thursday 28 April 2011
Anger Management
Anger management tips: 10 ways to tame your temper
Controlling your temper isn't always easy. But these effective anger management tips will help give you the upper hand.
By Mayo Clinic staffDo you find yourself fuming when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure go through the roof when your child won't cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion, but learning how to deal with it in a positive way is important.
Uncontrolled anger can make both you and other people feel lousy. If your outbursts, rages or frustrations are negatively affecting relationships with family, friends, co-workers or even complete strangers, it's time to learn some anger management skills. Anger management techniques are a proven way to help change the way you express your anger.
10 tips to help get your anger under control
- Take a 'timeout.' Although it may seem cliche, counting to 10 before reacting really can defuse your temper.
- Get some space. Take a break from the person you're angry with until your frustrations subside a bit.
- Once you're calm, express your anger. It's healthy to express your frustration in a nonconfrontational way. Stewing about it can make the situation worse.
- Get some exercise. Physical activity can provide an outlet for your emotions, especially if you're about to erupt. Go for a brisk walk or a run, swim, lift weights or shoot baskets.
- Think carefully before you say anything. Otherwise, you're likely to say something you'll regret. It can be helpful to write down what you want to say so that you can stick to the issues. When you're angry, it's easy to get sidetracked.
- Identify solutions to the situation. Instead of focusing on what made you mad, work with the person who angered you to resolve the issue at hand.
- Use 'I' statements when describing the problem. This will help you to avoid criticizing or placing blame, which can make the other person angry or resentful — and increase tension. For instance, say, "I'm upset you didn't help with the housework this evening," instead of, "You should have helped with the housework."
- Don't hold a grudge. If you can forgive the other person, it will help you both. It's unrealistic to expect everyone to behave exactly as you want.
- Use humor to release tensions. Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Don't use sarcasm, though — it's can hurt feelings and make things worse.
- Practice relaxation skills. Learning skills to relax and de-stress can also help control your temper when it may flare up. Practice deep-breathing exercises, visualize a relaxing scene, or repeat a calming word or phrase to yourself, such as "Take it easy." Other proven ways to ease anger include listening to music, writing in a journal and doing yoga.
Wednesday 27 April 2011
Journal Entry
“No matter how dark the moment,
love and hope are always possible.”
love and hope are always possible.”
~ George Chakiris
Anger seems to be the mood of the week (I really am ready for it to go now), so I guess I really need to work on that.
Then of course comes the fatigue, I get tired in 2 minutes after starting anything. I don't tell many people, but my wife tells me she can see it in my face. She says she can notice a significant difference from the time we leave home and the time we get in town that there is a big change in me, like it washes over me like a veil.
but the thing i am more concerned about is the angry,sometimes it feels like i can hurt myself or someone else
Monday 25 April 2011
Journal Entry
It has been a few days since I have written anything, I just was not up to it.
I feel better as I am getting some sleep(with the help of a sleeping pill), but hey, sleep is sleep.
We are doing our basement over, and although I am finding it hard at times because I want to go down and work but most times I have to push myself to do it. Once there I get tired real fast, but I guess the fact that I am down there doing something is the "plus" factor, because after I actually get myself down there to work I do feel better for awhile(and every little bit helps).
I did not think we needed to rip the entire basement out (all that work we had done years ago!) but after seeing the mold on the underneath walls I guess it was a good thing after all,,, just that much more to do now! It's a good thing my wife's deadline for completion is Christmas!!
I feel better as I am getting some sleep(with the help of a sleeping pill), but hey, sleep is sleep.
We are doing our basement over, and although I am finding it hard at times because I want to go down and work but most times I have to push myself to do it. Once there I get tired real fast, but I guess the fact that I am down there doing something is the "plus" factor, because after I actually get myself down there to work I do feel better for awhile(and every little bit helps).
I did not think we needed to rip the entire basement out (all that work we had done years ago!) but after seeing the mold on the underneath walls I guess it was a good thing after all,,, just that much more to do now! It's a good thing my wife's deadline for completion is Christmas!!
Thought for the Day
“Running away
will never make you free.”
will never make you free.”
~ Kenny Loggins
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Journal Entry
Journal entry: still feeling angry and anxious, sw my droctor today and we made a small change in one of my pills,other than that, not much to add, although he did seem to get that there is not much improvement.
Forgot to ask alot of questions, but that is me, I have them all in my head, then when I get there I forget them, par for the course for me I should start to write them down(if I could remember to do that too!)
Forgot to ask alot of questions, but that is me, I have them all in my head, then when I get there I forget them, par for the course for me I should start to write them down(if I could remember to do that too!)
Monday 18 April 2011
One More
Today started off the same as the past few days, although as it went on it got a tiny bit better, just enough that I started to feel ever so slightly better.
I am not saying I am not angry it just seems to be there always lingering and comes alive when it feels it has to(like it has a strength of it's own and I have no control).
Men, I think have a lot more anger and do not sleep much, we also have low energy and a need to lash out at others, at least that is how I feel. I have read that men think four times more than women about committing suicide.
Some of the pills one takes interfere with your sex life as well (just another side effect that only makes things worse) which effects both people in a relationship. This is more upsetting to a man than women (must be a macho thing I guess).
I am not saying I am not angry it just seems to be there always lingering and comes alive when it feels it has to(like it has a strength of it's own and I have no control).
Men, I think have a lot more anger and do not sleep much, we also have low energy and a need to lash out at others, at least that is how I feel. I have read that men think four times more than women about committing suicide.
Some of the pills one takes interfere with your sex life as well (just another side effect that only makes things worse) which effects both people in a relationship. This is more upsetting to a man than women (must be a macho thing I guess).
Wrong Hill on the Roller Coaster
It is with great frustration that I write today.
It sucks to be alone, useless and angry.
At least I have a spot to take out my anger on as we are renovating our basement and being able to hack away at the old wall is sort of a tension release!
I am not sure what is wrong, can not put a handle on it (but then I never usually do find any answers), the moods just seem to come, hang around for awhile, then subside, only to make the circle and start again.
Well it is very short today, just not in the mood to write today. Hopefully the tide will ebb again soon and leave me with a little peace for awhile again.
It sucks to be alone, useless and angry.
At least I have a spot to take out my anger on as we are renovating our basement and being able to hack away at the old wall is sort of a tension release!
I am not sure what is wrong, can not put a handle on it (but then I never usually do find any answers), the moods just seem to come, hang around for awhile, then subside, only to make the circle and start again.
Well it is very short today, just not in the mood to write today. Hopefully the tide will ebb again soon and leave me with a little peace for awhile again.
How You Can Help
Depression isn’t just a temporary mood swing or a sign of personal weakness. It’s a serious medical condition with many emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms. Many people feel ashamed or afraid to seek help.
Talking with a friend or family member about what you are going through can be a positive step towards recovery. Whether encouraging them to continue with a treatment plan, it's important to be aware of what you say and the way you say it.
Be an "active listener." Before responding
Don't worry about having the right answer. Just being
present and showing you care can go a long way.
Don't belittle the person's feelings. Attempts to say
something positive like "You don't seem that bad to me"
can actually make a depressed person feel worse.
Don't forget to say things like "I love you," "I'm here for you
depression.ca
Talking with a friend or family member about what you are going through can be a positive step towards recovery. Whether encouraging them to continue with a treatment plan, it's important to be aware of what you say and the way you say it.
- Don't assume that someone in treatment no longer
needs to talk. Many people get discouraged in the first few weeks, before they feel any real improvement. It's critical that you stay in close contact and urge the person to hang in there. - Give positive feedback. Let them know when you see any improvement—even a small one.
- Try reassuring them, and encouraging them to stick with the treatment with an expression of hope that with time they will feel better.
thoughts, try repeating back what the person has just said.
present and showing you care can go a long way.
something positive like "You don't seem that bad to me"
can actually make a depressed person feel worse.
depression.ca
Thursday 14 April 2011
The Mask
We all wear a mask.
When we go anywhere we pretend all is OK and smile, all the while deep down we do not want to be where we are.
People ask "how have you been?", We say "great", when in reality we really feel like saying "I am a mess". People who ask you really don't want to know about your illness if it is a non visible one (so perhaps they should stop asking that question, change the habit).
Wearing a mask all day does not do us any good, instead it is for the benefit of others.
Did you know that making "smiling masks" all day long can lead to what is called smiling syndrome?
When we go anywhere we pretend all is OK and smile, all the while deep down we do not want to be where we are.
People ask "how have you been?", We say "great", when in reality we really feel like saying "I am a mess". People who ask you really don't want to know about your illness if it is a non visible one (so perhaps they should stop asking that question, change the habit).
Wearing a mask all day does not do us any good, instead it is for the benefit of others.
Did you know that making "smiling masks" all day long can lead to what is called smiling syndrome?
Tuesday 12 April 2011
The Good and The Bad
Not All Stress is Bad
Some stress in your life is a positive thing for healthy functioning (like skiing down a slope, riding a roller coaster). Without some positive stress in your life you can become "depressed".
Even acute stress (a very short term type of stress) is not a bad thing, like racing to meet a deadline.
Chronic Stress however not so positive (the type of stress that is never ending and inescapable) the body doesn't have a chance to activate the "relaxation response".
Your body is continually in a constant state of “fight-or-flight” response.
It affects your body in various ways like heart disease, diabetes and or stroke.
STRESS RELIEVERS:
DISTRACTION- playing a game on your computer, laughter, gardening, music, sports, mini-vacation.
TOOLS/RESOURCES- aromatherapy products, IPhone apps, Electronic games (Nintendo WII).
FIND BALANCE- between work, home and play- assess your lifestyle.
STRESS REDUCTION EXERCISE- exercise helps release built up tension-releases endorphins (happy hormones)- Yoga, Karate, Swimming, Walking
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE- self care, healthy diet, start your day the right way (it sets the stage for your entire day- listen to music, stretch in the shower, eat a balanced breakfast, write in your journal or blog, take a morning walk)
JOURNALING, MEDITATION
FIGURE OUT WHAT TYPE YOUR ARE: Type A (people who rush frantically through life)
Negative self talker (the enemy inside your head)
Pessimist (sees everything worse than it really is)
Saturday 9 April 2011
Just Another Day
Not much different day than yesterday,still feel not wanted, loved or that I am not good enough for anything or anyone(even though I don't have anything to really justify those feelings they continue to be there).
Life in general is not that good (although my wife tells me it is, the sun is shining, and we're all well), still taking all the pills which I hate taking as I think that over a long time they do more harm than good, but one has to have something for the depression.
Sometimes you have to wonder if the Dr's get a rebate on the pills they put out.
My blog is short today, not much to write about(well there probably is but not in the mood for it today), just wanted to get some frustration out.
Maybe tomorrow will be a better day!
Life in general is not that good (although my wife tells me it is, the sun is shining, and we're all well), still taking all the pills which I hate taking as I think that over a long time they do more harm than good, but one has to have something for the depression.
Sometimes you have to wonder if the Dr's get a rebate on the pills they put out.
My blog is short today, not much to write about(well there probably is but not in the mood for it today), just wanted to get some frustration out.
Maybe tomorrow will be a better day!
Friday 8 April 2011
Yesterday, It Came, It Went
My day yesterday,sucked badly (and although I know where it stemmed from, you still can't seem to stop it from coming).
It was one of the days where your mind is somewhere else than your body (I can definitely relate to people who say they have an "out of body" experience!) .
My depression was bad, my knees were sore and I had a hard job to stay awake.
I usually take a "ME" day when feeling that way, but it was also a day where I actually had things to do. In looking back now that was probably a good thing, otherwise my bad day feeling might would have carried over into the next day.
It was one of the days where your mind is somewhere else than your body (I can definitely relate to people who say they have an "out of body" experience!) .
My depression was bad, my knees were sore and I had a hard job to stay awake.
I usually take a "ME" day when feeling that way, but it was also a day where I actually had things to do. In looking back now that was probably a good thing, otherwise my bad day feeling
Did You Know
A few more tidbits of information to help you or your support team.
It's not known exactly what causes depression. As with many mental illnesses, it appears a variety of factors may be involved. These include:
It's not known exactly what causes depression. As with many mental illnesses, it appears a variety of factors may be involved. These include:
- Biological differences. People with depression appear to have physical changes in their brains. The significance of these changes is still uncertain but may eventually help pinpoint causes.
- Neurotransmitters. These naturally occurring brain chemicals linked to mood are thought to play a direct role in depression.
- Hormones. Changes in the body's balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression. Hormone changes can result from thyroid problems, menopause and a number of other conditions.
- Inherited traits. Depression is more common in people whose biological family members also have the condition. Researchers are trying to find genes that may be involved in causing depression.
- Life events. Events such as the death or loss of a loved one, financial problems and high stress can trigger depression in some people.
- Early childhood trauma. Traumatic events during childhood, such as abuse or loss of a parent, may cause permanent changes in the brain that make you more susceptible to depression.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression/DS00175/DSECTION=coping-and-support
Tuesday 5 April 2011
My Signs
Now for MY mental and physical signs of stress!
Memory loss (alone it would probably just be a sign of getting old), the inability to concentrate, moodiness (as I am sure my other half can attest to!), and irritability. These are just some of what I deal with day to day.
On the Physical and Behavioral Indications the ones I have had to deal with are Headache, Insomnia, Loss of sex drive, Weight gain or loss , Starting fights(not that I like to admit that I do that!).
These are just a few of what Ideal struggle with everyday, some days more than others. The worst part is when they come on all at once!
Memory loss (alone it would probably just be a sign of getting old), the inability to concentrate, moodiness (as I am sure my other half can attest to!), and irritability. These are just some of what I deal with day to day.
On the Physical and Behavioral Indications the ones I have had to deal with are Headache, Insomnia, Loss of sex drive, Weight gain or loss , Starting fights(not that I like to admit that I do that!).
These are just a few of what I
Thought for the Day
“Anger is the most impotent of passions.
It effects nothing it goes about,
and hurts the one who is possessed by it
more than the one against whom it is directed.”
It effects nothing it goes about,
and hurts the one who is possessed by it
more than the one against whom it is directed.”
~ Carl Sandburg
(1878-1967)
(1878-1967)
Indicators
STRESS can be harmful. When a person has too much stress in his or her life, health problems such as high blood pressure, heart attack, and even stroke are common. Here is a list of some indications of stress:
Twenty Indicators of Stress
Monday 4 April 2011
Negativity
My wife asked me why my posts always seem negative. At first I did not know what to say as she was right.
Then I said I do not have much positive things to talk about. I have my health (so to speak) and other things (family), but are they happy things?
They should be, but to someone like me I have the tendency (as do most who suffer with "D") to only think about only the things I did wrong and the things I have not or cannot do, instead of thinking about the things I have done or that I have.
This is the most difficult part of being depressed, trying to retrain your brain to do the opposite of what it has the tendency to do and as of yet I have not reached that pinnacle (yet).
Then I said I do not have much positive things to talk about. I have my health (so to speak) and other things (family), but are they happy things?
They should be, but to someone like me I have the tendency (as do most who suffer with "D") to only think about only the things I did wrong and the things I have not or cannot do, instead of thinking about the things I have done or that I have.
This is the most difficult part of being depressed, trying to retrain your brain to do the opposite of what it has the tendency to do and as of yet I have not reached that pinnacle (yet).
Saturday 2 April 2011
Still Venting
Has anyone ever heard of depression biting you in the ass.That is what I feel like alot of times.
Most times you feel alone,useless, not doing your part of the work, not working, loneiness, all this plus the fatigue is what I hate, it sucks everything out of you.
Plus I wish I would hear back from the neurology dept to see why I fall, getting tired of getting up off the hard, cold floors.You would think when you are in your 6's it would be the time of your life.
Not sure if they really understand depression, but they know I am not normal,,,,lol
anyway just wanted to vent a bit this morning.
Most times you feel alone,useless, not doing your part of the work, not working, loneiness, all this plus the fatigue is what I hate, it sucks everything out of you.
Plus I wish I would hear back from the neurology dept to see why I fall, getting tired of getting up off the hard, cold floors.You would think when you are in your 6's it would be the time of your life.
Not sure if they really understand depression, but they know I am not normal,,,,lol
anyway just wanted to vent a bit this morning.
Friday 1 April 2011
March Takes A Toll
Depression has no time frame. Yet, it seems that in the month of March it takes a higher toll on people with depression (well ME anyway).
The more you fight it, the worse it gets,,,you take one step forward and 2 steps back. (not sure if it is the transition from winter to spring and knowing that I cannot use Winter as an excuse for staying in the house anymore....hmmm)
Then to add the topping to that, you get the flue which further sucks the best out of you, where you REALLY hate to get out of bed. My wife tells me I look like sh*t (with a smile on her face ☺ ), (she is the only one who can get away with that as she knows and understands (as best she can) what I go through ♥).
The more you fight it, the worse it gets,,,you take one step forward and 2 steps back. (not sure if it is the transition from winter to spring and knowing that I cannot use Winter as an excuse for staying in the house anymore....hmmm)
Then to add the topping to that, you get the flue which further sucks the best out of you, where you REALLY hate to get out of bed. My wife tells me I look like sh*t (with a smile on her face ☺ ), (she is the only one who can get away with that as she knows and understands (as best she can) what I go through ♥).
Wednesday 30 March 2011
Guest Speaker
Last night we had a guest speaker from the pharmacy school, she was in her last year and hopes to graduate in May. Her topic was Anxiety and she did a fantastic job in explaining Anxiety, the causes and also did a lot of explaining about the different medications that helps to try to get some relief.
Anxiety disorders affect 12% of the population casing mild to severe impairment.
Depression/Anxiety continues to be Canada's fastest rising diagnosis from 1994-2004, Dr's visits have almost doubled. (In 2003 11.6 million visits to doctors across Canada about depression/anxiety)
Types of Anxiety disorders:
Treatment for anxiety includes medication, behaviour modification therapy, psychotherapy, education, support groups.
Natural Health products should not be used for depression/anxiety unless you talk to your Doctor first.
Anxiety disorders affect 12% of the population casing mild to severe impairment.
Depression/Anxiety continues to be Canada's fastest rising diagnosis from 1994-2004, Dr's visits have almost doubled. (In 2003 11.6 million visits to doctors across Canada about depression/anxiety)
Types of Anxiety disorders:
- generalized anxiety disorder
- specific phobia
- post traumatic stress
- social phobia OCD disorder panic disorder
Treatment for anxiety includes medication, behaviour modification therapy, psychotherapy, education, support groups.
Natural Health products should not be used for depression/anxiety unless you talk to your Doctor first.
Monday 28 March 2011
What Not to Say to Someone Who Is Depressed
What Not to Say to Someone Who Is Depressed
Even if you mean well, saying the wrong thing to a loved one or friend who is depressed might only make them feel worse.
Don’t say: “Lots of people are worse off than you are.” Even if this is true, it doesn’t feel that way at the moment, and does not help your loved one. Being told she is needlessly feeling sorry for herself could make her feel even worse.
Do say: “You’re not alone in this.”
Don’t say: “No one ever said life was fair.” This comes off as a dismissal of your friend’s feelings.
Do say: “You’re important to me.”
Don’t say: “Stop feeling sorry for yourself.” Your friend does not know how to stop feeling depressed. Depression is a physical illness, like diabetes or heart disease, and sufferers cannot get over it just by trying harder.
Do say: “Let me help you.”
Don’t say: “So you’re depressed. Aren’t you always?” This minimizes what can be a serious disorder.
Do say: “You are not going crazy.”
Don’t say: “It’s your own fault.” No one chooses depression.
Do say: “I’ll stick with you through this.”
Don’t say: “Believe me, I know how you feel. I was once depressed for several days.” Depression is different from just feeling sad or blue.
Do say: “I’ll do my best to understand.”
Friday 25 March 2011
It Falls to You
When it comes to mental-health issues, general practitioners don’t have the training or experience to make more than the most cursory analysis and recommendations. For someone presenting symptoms of depression, the quick and easy solution for a doctor is often drugs. Some will send you for "talk" therapy first or do both if they have tried to keep up with mental health issues.
Once they give you something if you do not come back, they assume it is working, that is why we must go back if we find the drugs not working. You need to not be afraid to keep going back to change them until you and your Dr find the right ones.There is such a vast number of drugs out there it can take a long time to find the right one or combination to assist you.
Another thing, when you are seeing your Doctor make sure he checks your blood pressure regularly, while sitting and standing up,,,mine dropped from 180/75 to 102/73 when I stood up. This is something new that is just coming to light, so at this point there is not a lot of investigation results yet. The drop in pressure is one reason I lose my balance and have a tendency to fall, the only thing we are not sure if it is happening because of the TIA's I had previously (which is what my Dr thinks) or side effects from the medications or something else altogether.
Hope this information helps you to keep searching for help/answers.
Once they give you something if you do not come back, they assume it is working, that is why we must go back if we find the drugs not working. You need to not be afraid to keep going back to change them until you and your Dr find the right ones.There is such a vast number of drugs out there it can take a long time to find the right one or combination to assist you.
Another thing, when you are seeing your Doctor make sure he checks your blood pressure regularly, while sitting and standing up,,,mine dropped from 180/75 to 102/73 when I stood up. This is something new that is just coming to light, so at this point there is not a lot of investigation results yet. The drop in pressure is one reason I lose my balance and have a tendency to fall, the only thing we are not sure if it is happening because of the TIA's I had previously (which is what my Dr thinks) or side effects from the medications or something else altogether.
Hope this information helps you to keep searching for help/answers.
Thursday 24 March 2011
Pushing Myself
I haven't gotten out much these past few months, visiting family or friends is something I don't do much of, not because I don't want to but it just isn't in me most times.
In saying that I did finally drop in to see my brother and sister in law last night. It had been way too long. Picked up my hat that my niece had left for me(which was really nice of her to think of me), she is with the RCMP out in BC. Enjoyed hearing some of the stories about her encounters on the job. Knowing her as I do I know that she will be a great credit to the RCMP, hoping she gets stationed back here sometime.
Of course I had to start shaking, which I am sure they noticed (kind of hard not to when you are holding a cup of tea), but at least I didn't actually drop it or spill it! Bonus I did manage to stay on my feet as well!
In saying that I did finally drop in to see my brother and sister in law last night. It had been way too long. Picked up my hat that my niece had left for me(which was really nice of her to think of me), she is with the RCMP out in BC. Enjoyed hearing some of the stories about her encounters on the job. Knowing her as I do I know that she will be a great credit to the RCMP, hoping she gets stationed back here sometime.
Of course I had to start shaking, which I am sure they noticed (kind of hard not to when you are holding a cup of tea), but at least I didn't actually drop it or spill it! Bonus I did manage to stay on my feet as well!
Wednesday 23 March 2011
Blogging
It is funny(or not so funny depending on what side you are on) but the world sucks big time! You see your friends with depression going around and around like on a merry-go-round. As for me, my wife says I am in a "fog",(what ever that means), or "god you look awful".
Sometimes you think the whole world is against you, but in my case I do have my little Buddy for companionship( as much as he is a pain in the butt!)
I was asked why I have a blog.
I was told I should write my thoughts in a journal(but I am not much for doing that) so my wife thought a blog would work better for me to get my thoughts out.
For me it is a way to get some of my anger out as it builds up very quick and then I do not know what to do about it and since they say that "talking" helps, this is my way of "talking".
Anger can be a very bad influence on depression if not handled and let out, it tends to turn inward, which is what i tend to do most of the time. Alot of things that come with depression always go in ward(by which I mean people tend to hold everything inside until they explode).
Tuesday 22 March 2011
Tread with Caution
There comes a point in your therapy that you will be advised tell your relatives, close friends that you have depression and are being treated by a Doctor. Tread carefully!
Your family at first may not believe you mostly because they won't have noticed the signs (
Some stay away and are hesitant to help you or try to learn and understand, some may still talk with you. It will be different for everyone depending on the amount of understanding you get. For me I needed to stay away from family for a lot of reasons (perhaps another blog later on).
Your family at first may not believe you mostly because they won't have noticed the signs (
Some stay away and are hesitant to help you or try to learn and understand, some may still talk with you. It will be different for everyone depending on the amount of understanding you get. For me I needed to stay away from family for a lot of reasons (perhaps another blog later on).
Monday 21 March 2011
Medical Illness
Depression is a medical illness that involves the mind and body. Also called major depression, major depressive disorder and clinical depression. Iit affects how you feel, think and behave. Depression can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and depression may make you feel as if life isn't worth living.
More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn't a weakness, nor is it something that you can simply "snap out" of. Depression is a chronic illness that usually requires long-term treatment, like diabetes or high blood pressure. But don't get discouraged. Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychological counseling or other treatment.
(Taken from the Mayo Clinic Site)
More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn't a weakness, nor is it something that you can simply "snap out" of. Depression is a chronic illness that usually requires long-term treatment, like diabetes or high blood pressure. But don't get discouraged. Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychological counseling or other treatment.
(Taken from the Mayo Clinic Site)
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