Depression

[alfie19]

Does anyone with Primary Lymphodema suffer from depression?

[katsryan]

Most definately if we all admit it to some degree! Meself very much so!

Its nearly as dibilatating as the condition! ; (

[Lruk]

I think that there is a strong tendency for the two to go hand in hand. I suffered from depression for many years before I was diagnosed with primary LE and the first few months after the diagnosis were hell. Now I am adjusting but I know it is there, if I am not aware enough to take the right steps soon enough, if will take over.

In some ways I am fighting the depression more now, as I am coming to terms with this condition, as I refuse to let it dictate how I live my life any more than it absolutely has to. I doubt I will always be successful but I am giving it my best shot.

[alfie19]

Thanks Katsryan for your support.

Now I dont feel so alone how do you cope.

I read books, watch TV, visit the forum etc.

But what I find hard is the social side of things I feel a freak.

Dealing with pain and taking painkillers or antibiotics and antidepressants I hate tablets.

I need to lose 5st in weight so I am now concentrating on the Atkins diet to give me something else to focus on so far this is working.

I have a daily cry to myself and write a journal to help off load what is going on in my head.

[Christo]

Dear Alfie,

I replied to your reply on the compression garments post, but for some reason it has not gone through! never mind.

It is good to know that despite the difficulties you are managing to keep going.

Wherabouts are you located? Are there any support groups in your area?

Do you or did you work before becoming incapacitated? It is a great help to keep occupied with something you enjoy.

Please keep on the social network sites they help us to help each other. There is a very friendly group on Facebook with lots of good advice and useful links . . .

facebook.com/groups/2824159...

Remember that you are not alone - and certainly not a freak - who cares what your shoes look like - we all have to make adjustments and comfort is the top priority nowadays.

Another thing that you might enjoy - as you mentioned you write a journal - it is a wonderful free site - 100% private where you can write away to your hearts content! I have written well over 200,000 words there and it is a great help to offload your worries - and to think aloud! Do try it . . .

750words.com/

Good luck and sending you wishes for a peaceful New Year!

Cheers

Christo

[alfie19 in reply to Christo]

Thanks Christo for the kind words.

Its certainly nice to know that I am not alone talking to others on this site helps me a great deal to overcome the depression. I did belong to a support group but it was more for socializing, I felt I needed to talk to others with the same complaint this was very hard for me as others suffered with the arms.

It was also a chore for me to get ready and drive to the meetings.

I have a few friends who sympathize they say they don't know how I cope.

But you have to find a way that is good for you as it effects everyone differently.

Thanks for the links for the Journal or Blogg. This is what keeps me positive cos I find it very hard to say things as I get very forgetful but writing things down helps me a great deal and can help others so I have been told.

I did work with my legs being elevated (the higher the better) until my condition got worse and got unbearable. My boss was not sympathic and was not amused as I get so drained. I sleep for 2hrs in the afternoon this gives me a re-boost.

I am now looking for a more suitable job but this is very hard to find.