How do I motivate myself to get out of bed?

[Selvage22]

I tried to get off Paxil last summer, did great for 5 weeks then crashed. Got back on Paxil and struggled back to almost normal in about 6 months, but last week My son and his family (my grandkids) said they are moving way across the country in the summer. It put me right back to not wanting to get out of bed. I have no interest in doing anything. Mornings are horrible. Fortunately I work from home so my job is not in jeopardy, but I just don't know how to get myself out of this horrible depression and anxiety. I read books and it makes sense, but I'm just not getting better. Seeing doctor. She said keep on Paxil and Xanax from time to time to get thru the anxiety, but I am afraid I'll never be normal again. My poor husband has no idea what to do for me. He goes from encouragement to irritation. I guess it all takes time. I have no phobias, thankfully, I just don't want to be with or see anyone. I just want to stay in bed.

[Forestina]

I am the same and often counting the hours till I return. I have found having one thing I would like to achieve by lunchtime and if I do I promise myself a treat, however small. If I fail I don't beat myself up I just think I shall try again tomorrow. A friend having a key keeps me on my toes. Not that he would come unannounced but there is always the thought he might!

[Francesca61]

Maybe you feel like you're being abandoned? I think I would feel that way but it will pass like everything else does. It's kind of a mourning you have to go through. I remember when my friends son moved away to University she was really, really sad when he said he'd stay to live there after university.

[Selvage22 in reply to Francesca61]

Yes, I have been reading about grief and it goes with the anxiety. I am sorry to hear you have the same feelings. I will try the "one small thing." Generally the small thing for me is just getting dressed. Some nights I consider not getting undressed so I don't have to dress in the morning... haven't gotten quite that bad yet.