Osker56

Hello Board!

I first became depressed when I was 21 years old (35 years ago), the result of <being around someone> with Glandular Fever - which I also contracted. My Depression has cost me dearly over the years - chiefly a marriage and contact with my children. But I have survived to become a more resilient person and I'm proud of what I have achieved.

My depression used to be so severe it felt like sitting at the bottom of a dark hole, away from the world, where no-one could reach me. I would shut myself away from everybody and twice became suicidal. The drug therapy employed was hit and miss during the 70's and 80's, and as a result, my recovery was equally patchy. Then, in 1997, I was given an SUI for the first time. The difference was remarkable. Within 2 hours it was like a curtain had been lifted on the world - and I could function again. It took a few years to get my "social legs" back, but I persevered and went on to start a new career and meet new friends.
Since then I've done a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy course that proved pivotal in my gaining control of my own circumstance. I've stopped blaming myself and anybody else for the illness and am now living in a different country and am engaged to be married again.

I guess the point of my story is this: there is life after depression - and it can be quality life - but it takes help, hope, love and perseverance to get there.
Regards, Osker56.