Old problem, new diagnosis

Hi all,

I just wanted to introduce myself, for what's it's worth. I've read quite a few of the posts and I'm impressed by the kindness and generosity of spirit everyone demonstrates.

No doubt many of you have had experience with misdiagnosis over the years. This is my tenth winter dealing with depression, and finally I have a doctor whose diagnosis makes sense. You'd think someone (me, for example!) would have thought of SAD before, since I have a major depressive episode every January. I guess it's complicated by my having anxiety problems as well, though even these tend to flare up mostly in the winter.

Somewhere I read that SAD sufferers feel lazy and worthless because of their inability to accomplish things. Learning about SAD has helped me to stop blaming myself for my failures that have prevented me from progressing as otherwise I might have.

I'm lucky, though, and I know it - I have supportive friends and family members, and a job I enjoy. Now I'm experimenting with light therapy and anti-depressant medications, getting more exercise and watching my diet, and optimistic that I'm on the right track ... finally. I don't know if other people might think this a bit flaky, but I take classes in yoga and meditation and find them very helpful. Regular practice keeps me calmer and more peaceful, and gives me a sense of well-being that is invaluable.

So, hi to everyone!

Bryan

P.S. I encourage anyone who'd like an e-mail correspondent to drop me a line. I try to keep myself connected to the outside world as much as possible, to prevent my tendency to hide away, and e-mail helps.

Bryan,

I'm with you- isn't it great to know that you're not just rubbish and there is a reason why you struggle to succeed in the most mundane of things.

AND it's fantastic to hear from someone as flaky as me- yoga is great for putting the mind in order. I had to put my classes on hold because I was organising a wedding but I'm looking into classes close to work so I can start again!

Amy

Bryan,

I've never really spoken to anyone else with SAD and it's great hearing you say things I've been thinking!

In winter I seem incapable of processing my thoughts, I seem to end up with a mess of random thought 'pieces' and can't find the beginning or get to the end (and answers) of anything. I found that writing things down helps to clear my head. A yoga class followed by a session of writing my thoughts down in my journal makes the world of difference... Which reminds me, first job on monday is to make a phone call about yoga classes!

Amy