Depressed After Experiencing Physical Pain

[Bobca]

I am new to this group. I am a 65 year old retired teacher. I am very depressed and full of anxiety mostly because of various pain issues. I am experiencing pain in the following areas: teeth, neck, knee, arm, feet, back, voice and neck. I also have stomach problems, tinnitus and kidney disease. I blame myself for getting these conditions and worrying about them constantly. I have a loving and supportive family and friends who care about me. I spend most of my time sitting around and feeling that my life is doomed. I don't seem to be able to to find meaningful things to do during my day. Even when I find things to do such as reading, watching tv, shopping, doing laundry, walking, visiting my grandchildren, I feel very tense and sad. I receive counseling and am on various medicines to help me get over my depression. I just want to be like my old self where I experience life in the moment without regrets for my past and worries about my future. Are there anyone else out there that is experiencing similar issues? What do you do to make your life better despite the challenges?

[Agora1]

Hi Bobca, once we resolve and give into our pain and sit around wondering where did our life go, it doesn't take long for our mind to follow.

It's important in being grateful for the positive things you do have around you and that

sounds like your loving/supportive family and friends. That's a big plus.

One of your sentences sums it all up..."I just want to be like my old self where I experienced

life in the moment without regrets from my past and worries about my future"

Anxiety loves to allow us to replay all the past regrets we may have which amounts to

nothing but stressing us out more. The past is over, signed, sealed and closed. The future is

yet to happen and can change from day to day so once again we must get rid of the "what ifs"

down the road.

We only have the present moment which is a gift. As we get older, it may take us a little longer to get ready to live in the moment (lol) but we can and we need to no matter the pain

that we are in. We all need that something to look forward to no matter how small. We need

to appreciate and most of all have Gratitude for who we are, who we were and who we can be.

This is but a new Chapter you are going into. You are the author. You and only you can make it what you want. Welcome new friend to this amazing forum xx

[Bobca in reply to Agora1]

Thank you for your kind insightful reply. I really appreciate it.

[Agora1 in reply to Bobca]

We're always here for you xx