Living With Dysthymia (Chronic Depression)

I'm still not sure if it's the holidays or other issues coming to the surface, but I'm feeling down. The ferrets came through surgery all right, but one is not doing as well as we'd like. He's back at the vet's for observation after coming home yesterday.

I'm not sure if the internet is the best place to participate in support groups. Certainly, it's A place to participate. It's an always-on option. But for many people, writing is not the best avenue of expression. Without the tone of voice things can get muddled. I'm not a big fan of emoticons, but I think they're very helpful on the internet.

That's about all I'm up to talking about for now.

--Mary

I've been a little sidetracked from working on the website. First there was the snow. Then there was Christmas shopping (for nieces & nephews). Then it was getting my husband's health issues squared away. Now it's getting our ferrets' health issues squared away. We have two ferrets going in for surgery on Monday.

Stressful events -- like holidays or pets being ill -- can create havoc with emotions. I've been on edge a bit over the past couple of weeks. It can be difficult to tell if the problem is the stress or if I need a medication adjustment. One of the hardest things (to me, anyway) with feeling well on meds is experiencing the normal range of emotions. The first down day seems like it's the beginning of the end (again). I've learned to be patient and ride things out for a week or two before I even consider talking to my doctor about my medication. That's why having a therapist to talk to is important.

Coming out of years of dysthymia means taking baby steps.

--Mary