Why do I have to have manic depression?
Question:
What puzzles me the most about depression is my guilt for feeling terrible when there are others worse off than me. I can't help thinking about what I don't have going for me: I'm not very attractive at all, I have poor social skills, I can't pay attention, I don't retain any knowledge for long anymore, and I want to be an author but my writing skills are lacking (despite persistant work to improve).
I guess my question is: Why, despite my unwavering belief in God, loyalty to my friends, and dedication to whatever I do, am I subjected to feeling miserable?
Answers:
I'm sorry you're going through all of this, but keep in mind that there are a lot of other people living and dealing with mental illness. You can get through this and lead a healthy and productive life.
You said you think you "may" be manic-depressive. Have you seen a doctor or therapist yet? If not, then go to your family doctor to get a referral for a qualified therapist. Then this person can properly diagnose you and start a treatment plan. Medication can sometimes do wonders for depression and mood disorders.
You can also call 1-800-therapist, which is a free referral service for those looking for a good therapist.
I'm not sure of your age, but if you're still a minor in school then talk to a school counselor or teacher so that they can possibly help you communicate with your parents that you need some help.
Also, you need to stop being so hard on yourself. I know it's easier said than done, but you need to break out of this negative thinking pattern and try to find the things in yourself that are good and positive. Everyone has talents and abilities. Everyone has something to offer and so do you. It just takes practice, but as you work on improving your self-esteem, you'll begin to feel more connected with your life. Depression and manic-depression (bi-polar) can affect concentration and self esteem so once you begin some kind of treatment and get to feel more stable in your life you'll find that such things as social skills and your writing skills will become easier.
Take a look at this link http://www.utexas.edu/student/cmhc/booklets/selfesteem/selfest.html that offers some good advice on improving self esteem. It's pretty good.
People do care and there is help out there for you. Take care
Other Answers:
Hey, first of all, quit being so tough on yourself!! Second, we all hit bottom sometimes and that is ok, but you do have to be determined to pick yourself back up! I have been there. I started writing out my goals and working every day to reach them. Pretty soom you will look back and not be able to see where you started because you have come so far. Take it one day at a time and make the best of every day. Try to slow down and see what is really around you. The Lord has a plan for all of us and you will recognize yours soon. Just dont be so burried in self doubt and misery that you dont see it right in front of you.
maybe you need a real friend to talk to, maybe a girlfriend!
If you truly think you do, GET TO A DOCTOR! My husband has it and was suicidal before they found it. His parents still don't think there's anything wrong with him but I can tell you there is!! What matters is how you feel. Forget everyone else. Take care of you. No matter what it is, if something is not right, you need to start treatment as early as possible before you really mess up your life. Any serious feelings of depression should be taken seriously. In my hubby's case, I think his parents are actually part of the problem!!
You said " Why do I feel despair when others are living the dream?"
Well have you ever thought that it might be what you are telling yourself about others living their dream? When you think about living your dream what exactly comes bubbling up from your subconscious mind?
I would be willing to wager it is not positive! Stop the negative internal babble and see what happens.
Hope that helps.
Alex
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