[Canuck Bob]

Re: Pre-existing depression

by Canuck Bob on Tue Mar 20, 2012 5:32 pm

I can add only support and understanding. I come from a family cursed with rampant depression. I had experienced relief after a number of years of treatment and lifestyle changes, sobering up and a 12 step program. My diagnosis has worked to drag me back and I am conscious of the pull. We adopted two angels from China after my depression symptoms were gone when I was 50. I was 57 when diagnoised with multiple myeloma and the worry about my children and wife combined with the grind of treatment was tough to deal with. I avoided isolation as much as possible. I too found work to be a blessing. If work is not an option then some hobby or interest to get away from the TV and constant woory might help.

With young children I found focusing on their welfare was very uplifting rather than focusing on me abandoning them. My family and our best friends carried me through. This technique of turning the source of depression upside down has helped me greatly. I focused hard on questions of legacy not death, it worked.

Of course sleep is critical to my welfare emotionally. Now that my health is returning after an ASCT I'm eager to add gentle excercise as well.