Posted by Penny on January 8, 2004, at 9:36:42
In reply to get a life!, posted by justyourlaugh on January 8, 2004, at 9:13:44
I know how you feel, JYL, about not knowing if this illness is 'real' or not - I sometimes question whether things were really bad enough for me to start taking meds and going to therapy in the first place. Then I look at old journals and think back to before meds and realize that I was in a bad place, and that it wasn't caused by meds.
People who've never really 'been there' can't possibly understand, JYL. There are a lot of people out there who have never been there who would like for you to believe that you can get through this or 'over' this on your own. But I think that most of us who have been there know how real it is. My meds work awhile, then lose effect. I've played with them sometimes, when I've doubted their effectiveness, and have learned quickly how even a low dose of the 'right' med can be so helpful! Right now my meds are working, and I can tell a huge difference. I know it's not all in my head.
As for therapy and your husband - some people will never be comfortable with opening up to a 'professional', and your hubby may be one of them. But if it's working for you, and it seems that it is - that you are making major headway! - then keep doing what you need to do for YOU. I have learned, as Dinah said, to make certain topics off limits to certain people. My grandmother sent me a letter not too long ago saying she thought I was over-medicated. But she was speaking from ignorance. She loves me, but she doesn't understand, and she can never fully understand. But I've had to accept that it's okay. I have a doc I trust and a T I trust, so I let them take care of me, and if others don't agree with my approach to mental health, that's their problem.
For many people, improvement takes a while. Sometimes a LONG while. And it's frustrating. And all I can say, JYL, is that we are here for you. We DO understand. You are NOT alone, even though you may feel that way. Try to keep taking care of yourself.
I'm sorry things are so hard for you right now. Sending you good thoughts.
P
poster:Penny
thread:298024
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040102/msgs/298039.html