New Here and Looking for ways to feel better

[needinginspiration]

I have Major Depression and Anxiety. I have been going through a number of med changes which I know isn't helping. On top of COVID, I work from home so I am feeling very isolated. I have my husband of 35 years who is loving and supportive, but I am in a dark, ugly place and cannot figure out how to get out. I have kind of distanced myself from friends because I just don't have anything happy to talk about. My dad is dying and I am on the other side of the country. I feel guilty for not wanting to be there. I haven't seen my therapist in a few weeks just because of her schedule so I am desperately trying to find ways to get out of my own head. Looking for ideas, hobbies, crafts, apps, reading anything to help! Thanks!

[a_work_in_progress]

Hello I’m sorry to hear about your dad and I’m sorry to hear how you are feeling right now. But you’re not alone. You are very lucky to have a loving and supportive husband. These times are so hard I know we have to hang in there. Sending hugs

[Marysblue]

I'm sorry to hear about your dad. Sounds like you're really dealing with a lot right now. There's some good YouTube videos one called how to recover from depression. Another is called the threesecrets of resilient people Also love to listen to Eckhart Tolle and Michael Singer on YouTube. And I recommend their books. Also walking just 20 minutes a day can boost your mood.

[FifLove]

I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. Unfortunately, even if you were apt to go see him, it may not be the best thing due to Covid. I am glad to hear that you have a supportive husband, though most people on this site understand that sometimes we just cannot be pulled out of the dark corners of our minds we retreat to. I hope your med changes help soon and wonder if you can put in a call to let your therapist know you need to be more of a priority right now. Do you currently have any hobbies? Maybe some furry friends about who cheer you up?

[help_each_other in reply to FifLove]

I would not assume your friends do not want to talk to you because you’re not happy. A good friend will be happy to talk to you even if you’re depressed or feeling sad. Period for me what helps me when I am sad is at least trying to do one or two small productive things

[Hidden]

This is a hobby I'm doing, if you can call it that. I have some colored pencils and gel pens and I get these adult coloring books, you can get them on Amazon or a store like Hobby Lobby, and I color these pictures of animals or interesting quotes. It's something to do with my hands and if one comes out rather well I might give it to someone or tape it on the wall. This might be something your kids might like to do too. Have a coloring party!

[Catsamaze ADAA Volunteer]

Welcome to the family. You found us and reached out. Please give yourself credit for that. We’re really happy to have you though sorry about what you’re going through with your dad and depression in general. I’m heartened by the way you end your post in such a positive way. Finding a hobby or passion is hugely helpful in getting through really difficult times. I have a couple of hobbies but I’m currently not actually doing anything with them. Maybe encouraging you to do so will help me to follow suit!