ECT update

[nicetry]

Hi! Wanted to update you on my ECT. I’ve completed the initial 12 treatments & am currently on “maintenance “ — 2x/month then down to occasional treatments. Thing is, I don’t know how to tell if I’m getting better. People tell me I seem better, whatever that means. But it’s not like I don’t still get anxious & have crying spells. Then I get anxious bc I’m trying to figure out if I’m anxious 😟

[Sillysausage234]

Well you’re trying to do things to improve your mental health so that’s progress

[NeuronerdDoaty]

I’m so glad you checked in. I think about you and pray for you often. Give it time. Try to talk to us when you feel overwhelmed.

I think you’re very brave.

I used to cry a lot about 20 years ago. My kids would ask if it was stress, work, pain, money or their dad! I just went about the house doing things. I didn’t want them thinking it was because of them but later I realized how much it helped to name it.

Please don’t isolate from us.

Sending love and strength.

Doaty 💛

[Coloradowalker]

Thank you for keeping us posted. I’ve been thinking about you. I would trust that others have seen improvement and give yourself a break from thinking about how you feel. It is hard because these symptoms can be all consuming. You deserve a little respite though. ❤️

[jeoffry]

Start doing breathing meditation. It will heal you. No need any medication

[nicetry]

Thank you all for your encouragement. You’re right, Coloradowalker, the symptoms can take up so much space in my head that I can’t see much else. I’m just so damn scared that NOTHING will ever help me — a feeling I’m sure others here are all to familiar with.

[tiredswedge]

Yup, so many of us have been there. I definitely have. In the past, when I've tried a number of things in a row that havent worked, I would throw up my hands and retreat. I would give myself a rest from the treatments and therapies until I built up my strength to jump back on the horse and try again.

Have you had a chance to talk to your regular psychiatrist about how to proceed?

[nicetry in reply to tiredswedge]

Not yet, but that’s a good idea.