Hello all I am new on here.

[kalee99]

I have had bouts of depression on & off for many years. This time its very bad. How it came about started in November last year (2011). I had been suffering from an un diagnosed medical problem for over 5 years which eventually showed itself to be atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure this was diagnosed when I eventually collapsed & was taken to hospital. After some very good treatment I am now almost symptom free and was feeling quite well in my mind until a few weeks ago when I woke up feeling that everything was closing in on me and that life was meaningless. Previously I was taking 20Mg of Citalopram. My GP. Has doubled this to 40 but as yet it has had no effect.

I have no idea why I should be so depressed after being through a bad time and now being so much improved with my physical health?

Has anyone got any ideas?

For general information I don’t work as I spend all my time looking after my disabled wife and my elderly mother. I do have time for myself but just spend it lying on the bed worrying about things.

Thanks.

[Getting-By]

Hi

Good to meet you but sorry to here your depression has come back it usually takes between 6-8 weeks before the benefits of antidepressants can be felt so stick with it. I am pleased you are speaking with your GP regarding your depression and it is a good idea to keep in close contact with them.

Have you looked into doing therapy? Such as CBT or Mindfulness? Just a suggestion. I found therapy really helpful especially mindfulness which is all about living in the moment you can find out information on this on the web and your GP should be able to point you in the right direction.

It sounds like you have been through a lot over the last few years and sometimes after receiving good news you can get a low afterwards. You have said that you have had depression before and have got through it so that is a positive. Keep posting here and let us know how you are doing we are here to listen and support you.

[AOD01]

Hi,

I agree mindfulness is a brilliant therapy and it really is worth giving it a go. You say that during your free time you tend to worry about things and this seems to be negative thinking and negative feelings and it is common to be feeling down after going through so much, even though it has worked for you. The important thing is, as Getting-By has said, is to try and remain positive as you have made it this far and you should be proud of yourself for helping your wife and your mother.

What I'm wondering is if there is perhaps something you could do during your free time to distract you from the worry? Such as maybe reading or going out with friends? I know it can seem like a lot of effort just now but if you maybe try it once or twice and see how you feel.

Keep in contact with your GP and keep them updated. Let them know if you do have any concerns and they will answer any questions you have.

Take care.