Counseling/ Therapy

[LoveBear]

I’ve been meeting with a professional counselor for over a year. I canceled tomorrow’s appointment - I just don’t want to talk about depression anymore. I’m functioning on 3 meds and am still depressed - think it’s my new norm. Have others stopped therapy? Thoughts?

[Nothing_but_books]

Hello LoveBear,

What a brave, wonderful screen name!

My idea is to choose from option A, option B, or option C.

My idea only. You know I don't know much about your circumstances.

Option A. Hey therapist! This isn't working! These are the problems here... I want something different.

Option B. Hey therapist! I'm at a dead end with you. I'm going to find someone who is more proactive getting me out of this hole.

Option C. Feel sorry for yourself for a bit. Do nothing. See if things get better or worse without the therapist.

Whatever you choose, make it what seems right to you now. It's okay to make a mistake. You can learn and fix it later.

[LoveBear in reply to Nothing_but_books]

Thanks I’m just really tired of being depressed and talking about it every week. My therapist is great; he’s helped a lot I’m just tired of talking

[Booklover0219]

I can understand why you feel tired of talking about it. What if you just take a short break and then go back? Maybe you could start a more solution based therapy versus talking? Just a thought.

[RecreateMyself in reply to Booklover0219]

Hi! What is a solution based therapy?

[Teachertime]

Hi,

Whenever I lose motivation to go to therapy anymore, it’s usually time for a break. You might need time to process, so give yourself permission to take that break. You can always go back- or not.

Take care.

[LoveBear in reply to Teachertime]

Thank you. I do like my therapist - I’m just tired of talking about myself - I’m still depressed doing everything I can and I’m depressed. Maybe it’s just a break...thank you!!

[Hidden]

Hi! I have been going to therapists 12 years now and it's been overall very helpful. I would recommend changing to one that challenges you more and is more fun to go to. Good luck 👍

[RecreateMyself]

Hi! I stopped going to my therapist... I felt like we talked about the same items week after week and when I was supposed to “do” something, I never could follow through and so my status would be the same week after week. I would dread my appointments so I stopped going.

[lovetodance2018]

Thank you for reaching and sharing. I know what you mean about not wanting to talk about depression anymore. When I am in an depressive episode that is all I think and talk about. However, I am focusing more on my good days. When I spiral and go through a depressive episode. I remind myself I do have good days and depression is not who I am but an illness I struggle with. It does not define me. As for counseling, if you don't find it helping and it has been a year, maybe you need to look at another counselor. I actual switched to a healthy l ife coach as she helps me think why I am struggling and why I am not moving forward. Of course on my really depressed days I use the tools we come up with just to pull through. Like journaling. With my journal I list things that have went well for the day and focus on that, not what did not go well. We call them the little celebrations. I also have written down not to be judgemental but curious about my actions, thoughts, and behaviors. I also have been keeping a record of my depressive episodes, what was going on when I spiraled. Turns out mine is mostly chemical (especially around my menstrual). However, I do know if I let things get to me, or am too hard on myself, it makes it worse. I will be praying for you, but don't give up on counseling, maybe just possibly a new therapist. Praying and trusting God is also what helps me know I can feel well and I am not alone as I struggle. Hugs and God bless.

[lovetodance2018]

Thought I'd check up and see how you are doing this week. I have been praying for you. God Bless

[LoveBear in reply to lovetodance2018]

Thanks for checking in. Meeting with my counselor tomorrow. Not doing well at all - I just can’t handle much more

[lovetodance2018]

How did it go with the counselor? I have been praying for you. Hugs and know I am available to chat if you need. I know that feeling of not being able to cope and want to give up. You are not alone, we are here for you and we care. God Bless

[LoveBear in reply to lovetodance2018]

I really do like him, it’s the only place I feel safe to be me - no pretending I cried through the whole session. Things are bad not sure what to do ... I’m trying hour by hour

[lovetodance2018 in reply to LoveBear]

I am glad you feel comfortable talking with your therapist. It is great to be able to feel safe, open, and be able to be yourself. You are right we can only take one moment at at time. I will continue to be praying for you. Hugs and God bless.