Is a real messy home a sign of mental illness?

Q. My brother's wife has never kept a clean house, but this year, it seems to have really gone to the dogs. When a person lives in a home with every room a mess, is this a sign of clinical depression or some other disorder? We do get good exercise each time we visit, climbing over the many piles and obstacles, so we haven't minded it, but should we suggest a visit to a doctor, maybe, if ever they are unable to open the front or back door?

A. More likely it's a sign of filth and sheer laziness, not mental illness. Some people just don't care how nasty they are but, as an example, those with OCD must have their home spotlessly clean and as germ-free as possible, depending on how bad their obsession is. Still, depending on what mental issues one has, they can certainly be filthy. So basically, it depends on the person as to whether their filth is mental or not.

Original Question

A week ago, I accidentally gave my dog four tubes of Advantage flea control all at once. Is this dangerous?

Q. I later realized that each tube was to last an entire month. She appears to be fine other than slight signs of depression, although I did see those signs before the incident.

A. Ask your vet. Phone call's free. ;)

Original Question

What are the signs of dog depression? Can heart-worm travel into becoming brainworm?

Q. My dog Morph is/was the worlds smartest dog and a most courageous 4 leg animal. He's mixed pure bred golden retriever and shepard mutt. Understands 3 languages, looks both ways before crossing highway traffic. He defended me by attacking 2 fully grown rottweillers when he was about a year old. He's nearly 10 now but acting so weird.
He has mild heartworm treated for past 2 years, all of his shots. He has always stalked and eats wild muskrats, beaver and the odd rabbit staying mostly outdoors. Now he's crazy won't eat, can't decide what he wants to do. If there were dog taverns he'd be there sucking beer all winter.

A. my heart goes out to him

keep treating him medically, and spend time with him, he'll need his best friends support

ask a vet if your really concerned,

Original Question

What do I do to alleviate my dogs lonliness after she lost her dog companion?

Q. I had three dogs and had to get rid of two. I kept my oldest dog. She is twelve years old. Since I got rid of the last dog, (who had been with her for 2 years as a puppy of about 6 weeks old) she has been howling a very sad howl in the backyard. I don't know if she is doing this when I am gone, and it is not constant when I am here, only on occasion. Is she mourning the loss of the other dog? Will she get over it eventually? It has been at least a month since the other dog has been gone.

A. Well you 'got rid of' your other dogs and your dog is grieving the loss of her canine family. She obviously had a close bond with the other dogs and her sense of loss and sadness is immense.

It's a normal reaction and had someone 'got rid of' close members of your human family you would probably grieve as your elderly dog is grieving. She will either come to terms with it or she won't, and will withdraw into depression. Bring her inside the house. Don't leave her out in the back yard alone. She needs your care and attention.

I must say I find the term 'got rid of' to be quite clinical. You get rid of garbage, not dogs. Any dog I take on is here for life. I would not part with a dog after I elected to take on responsibility for its welfare. The exception is a rescue dog I take in for training and rehoming. In which case I have the new owner sign a contract that requires them to return the dog to me if it ever needs to be rehomed.

I suppose you had good reason to 'get rid of' your dogs. That, I will never understand unless there is a troublemaker dog who is intent on killing one of the other dogs, in which case the safety of the dogs is paramount.

Original Question

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How much attention should I give my outside dog?

Q. She is use to being alone, but absolutely loves me and every single time I play with her, like she can't get enough of it and it won't last. And I feel bad for it but she never scratches at the door, bark, or whine. So I assume she's fine. So two other questions.
1) What are some signs of depression?
2) Should I leave a picture of me while I leave for vacation(13 days) or does it really matter to my dog who loves me to death?

A. You really should bring her inside :( Even if she can only go in the living room or kitchen it is really important for a dog to be with you.

Instead of leaving a picture of yourself leave a tshirt that you've worn. Dogs use their sense of smell more than sight, so it will matter more to her to have something of you she can smell.

Also you can play with her outside often to sort of wear her out and make her tired. Then when she comes in she will not be rambunctious. Here is an article about some things you can do:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1717428/fun_outdoor_activities_anyone_can_enjoy.html

Original Question

How come my dog won't sit with me much anymore?

Q. My dog is a very sweet dog. But every time my folks are out somewhere she sits in the dining room, or in my bedroom, when I'm sitting in the family room. Usually dogs like to be next to their owner. Is this sign of depression or just being a "watch" dog?

A. my two follow me when i go to bed or the toilet sometimes only 1 will follow..
its not depression.. they like certain spots to lay down and sometimes its just as they get older they change a little and become used to a routine..
she could be going to the best place where she can hear your folks coming back.

Original Question

Is a real messy home a sign of mental illness?

Q. My brother's wife has never kept a clean house, but this year, it seems to have really gone to the dogs. When a person lives in a home with every room a mess, is this a sign of clinical depression or some other disorder? We do get good exercise each time we visit, climbing over the many piles and obstacles, so we haven't minded it, but should we suggest a visit to a doctor, maybe, if ever they are unable to open the front or back door?

A. More likely it's a sign of filth and sheer laziness, not mental illness. Some people just don't care how nasty they are but, as an example, those with OCD must have their home spotlessly clean and as germ-free as possible, depending on how bad their obsession is. Still, depending on what mental issues one has, they can certainly be filthy. So basically, it depends on the person as to whether their filth is mental or not.

Original Question

A week ago, I accidentally gave my dog four tubes of Advantage flea control all at once. Is this dangerous?

Q. I later realized that each tube was to last an entire month. She appears to be fine other than slight signs of depression, although I did see those signs before the incident.

A. Ask your vet. Phone call's free. ;)

Original Question

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A week ago, I accidentally gave my dog four tubes of Advantage flea control all at once. Is this dangerous?

Q. I later realized that each tube was to last an entire month. She appears to be fine other than slight signs of depression, although I did see those signs before the incident.

A. Ask your vet. Phone call's free. ;)

Original Question

What are the signs of dog depression? Can heart-worm travel into becoming brainworm?

Q. My dog Morph is/was the worlds smartest dog and a most courageous 4 leg animal. He's mixed pure bred golden retriever and shepard mutt. Understands 3 languages, looks both ways before crossing highway traffic. He defended me by attacking 2 fully grown rottweillers when he was about a year old. He's nearly 10 now but acting so weird.
He has mild heartworm treated for past 2 years, all of his shots. He has always stalked and eats wild muskrats, beaver and the odd rabbit staying mostly outdoors. Now he's crazy won't eat, can't decide what he wants to do. If there were dog taverns he'd be there sucking beer all winter.

A. my heart goes out to him

keep treating him medically, and spend time with him, he'll need his best friends support

ask a vet if your really concerned,

Original Question

What do I do to alleviate my dogs lonliness after she lost her dog companion?

Q. I had three dogs and had to get rid of two. I kept my oldest dog. She is twelve years old. Since I got rid of the last dog, (who had been with her for 2 years as a puppy of about 6 weeks old) she has been howling a very sad howl in the backyard. I don't know if she is doing this when I am gone, and it is not constant when I am here, only on occasion. Is she mourning the loss of the other dog? Will she get over it eventually? It has been at least a month since the other dog has been gone.

A. Well you 'got rid of' your other dogs and your dog is grieving the loss of her canine family. She obviously had a close bond with the other dogs and her sense of loss and sadness is immense.

It's a normal reaction and had someone 'got rid of' close members of your human family you would probably grieve as your elderly dog is grieving. She will either come to terms with it or she won't, and will withdraw into depression. Bring her inside the house. Don't leave her out in the back yard alone. She needs your care and attention.

I must say I find the term 'got rid of' to be quite clinical. You get rid of garbage, not dogs. Any dog I take on is here for life. I would not part with a dog after I elected to take on responsibility for its welfare. The exception is a rescue dog I take in for training and rehoming. In which case I have the new owner sign a contract that requires them to return the dog to me if it ever needs to be rehomed.

I suppose you had good reason to 'get rid of' your dogs. That, I will never understand unless there is a troublemaker dog who is intent on killing one of the other dogs, in which case the safety of the dogs is paramount.

Original Question

Why is my dog showing signs of depression?

Q. I have a twelve year old yellow labrador and lately, she hasn't been wanting to eat, isn't running around like she used to, and is showing sings of depression. I'm not sure what's happening.

A. 0o0o0o0o0o Labs are wonderful dogs, and very lovable. 12 Years old is a long life for a lab and at this point you dog has seen her better years. Your dog is most likely in pain and not feeling well and she will never be the pup that you remember. I just lost my 11 year old lab and he showed the same signs in his last year or so. Fact is 11-12 is very old for these dogs. Its very hard loosing one of these dogs cos they get so close to ya.

Original Question

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How do you tell your dog is depressed?

Q. The other night one of my dogs died leaving one by her self. Although it is early what are signs of depression or other problems? I tried to bring her in my room to sleep with me because I didnt want her to get lonely. However when I tried to pick her up and put her on my bed she started to run away from me, which she has never done when I put her in my bed when the other dog was alive.

A. Hi,

When pets experience a sudden change, it upsets the balance in their lives, just as it does in ours. The loss of another dog or of a beloved human can be a large emotional hurdle for a dog. Usually what your dog needs is love and affection. She may not just snap out of it on her own, but given a little effort and patience, she'll regain her emotional footing. Here are some things you can do to help, check this out:

http://xrl.us/beccts

Original Question

Can dogs be depressed when the owner is gone for a period of time?

Q. My blue nose pitbull is really sweat. He loves playing with my other dog which is a yorkshire terrier. Well, I am not home and I won't be for another month, and my cousin was watching my dogs. She would call me saying that my pitbull does not want to eat or any thing. And when she gave his a dog treat and the yorkshire came to get a treat also, my pitbull grawled at it. Could that be a sign of depression or what could it be?

A. Yes, they certainly can. My dads dog is like that. She refuses to eat if he is gone and just lays by the door waiting for him to come back home. It's so sad to see her like that.

Original Question

How much attention should I give my outside dog?

Q. She is use to being alone, but absolutely loves me and every single time I play with her, like she can't get enough of it and it won't last. And I feel bad for it but she never scratches at the door, bark, or whine. So I assume she's fine. So two other questions.
1) What are some signs of depression?
2) Should I leave a picture of me while I leave for vacation(13 days) or does it really matter to my dog who loves me to death?

A. You really should bring her inside :( Even if she can only go in the living room or kitchen it is really important for a dog to be with you.

Instead of leaving a picture of yourself leave a tshirt that you've worn. Dogs use their sense of smell more than sight, so it will matter more to her to have something of you she can smell.

Also you can play with her outside often to sort of wear her out and make her tired. Then when she comes in she will not be rambunctious. Here is an article about some things you can do:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1717428/fun_outdoor_activities_anyone_can_enjoy.html

Original Question

Is a real messy home a sign of mental illness?

Q. My brother's wife has never kept a clean house, but this year, it seems to have really gone to the dogs. When a person lives in a home with every room a mess, is this a sign of clinical depression or some other disorder? We do get good exercise each time we visit, climbing over the many piles and obstacles, so we haven't minded it, but should we suggest a visit to a doctor, maybe, if ever they are unable to open the front or back door?

A. More likely it's a sign of filth and sheer laziness, not mental illness. Some people just don't care how nasty they are but, as an example, those with OCD must have their home spotlessly clean and as germ-free as possible, depending on how bad their obsession is. Still, depending on what mental issues one has, they can certainly be filthy. So basically, it depends on the person as to whether their filth is mental or not.

Original Question

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How much attention should I give my outside dog?

Q. She is use to being alone, but absolutely loves me and every single time I play with her, like she can't get enough of it and it won't last. And I feel bad for it but she never scratches at the door, bark, or whine. So I assume she's fine. So two other questions.
1) What are some signs of depression?
2) Should I leave a picture of me while I leave for vacation(13 days) or does it really matter to my dog who loves me to death?

A. You really should bring her inside :( Even if she can only go in the living room or kitchen it is really important for a dog to be with you.

Instead of leaving a picture of yourself leave a tshirt that you've worn. Dogs use their sense of smell more than sight, so it will matter more to her to have something of you she can smell.

Also you can play with her outside often to sort of wear her out and make her tired. Then when she comes in she will not be rambunctious. Here is an article about some things you can do:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1717428/fun_outdoor_activities_anyone_can_enjoy.html

Original Question

How come my dog won't sit with me much anymore?

Q. My dog is a very sweet dog. But every time my folks are out somewhere she sits in the dining room, or in my bedroom, when I'm sitting in the family room. Usually dogs like to be next to their owner. Is this sign of depression or just being a "watch" dog?

A. my two follow me when i go to bed or the toilet sometimes only 1 will follow..
its not depression.. they like certain spots to lay down and sometimes its just as they get older they change a little and become used to a routine..
she could be going to the best place where she can hear your folks coming back.

Original Question

Is a real messy home a sign of mental illness?

Q. My brother's wife has never kept a clean house, but this year, it seems to have really gone to the dogs. When a person lives in a home with every room a mess, is this a sign of clinical depression or some other disorder? We do get good exercise each time we visit, climbing over the many piles and obstacles, so we haven't minded it, but should we suggest a visit to a doctor, maybe, if ever they are unable to open the front or back door?

A. More likely it's a sign of filth and sheer laziness, not mental illness. Some people just don't care how nasty they are but, as an example, those with OCD must have their home spotlessly clean and as germ-free as possible, depending on how bad their obsession is. Still, depending on what mental issues one has, they can certainly be filthy. So basically, it depends on the person as to whether their filth is mental or not.

Original Question

A week ago, I accidentally gave my dog four tubes of Advantage flea control all at once. Is this dangerous?

Q. I later realized that each tube was to last an entire month. She appears to be fine other than slight signs of depression, although I did see those signs before the incident.

A. Ask your vet. Phone call's free. ;)

Original Question

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How much attention should I give my outside dog?

Q. She is use to being alone, but absolutely loves me and every single time I play with her, like she can't get enough of it and it won't last. And I feel bad for it but she never scratches at the door, bark, or whine. So I assume she's fine. So two other questions.
1) What are some signs of depression?
2) Should I leave a picture of me while I leave for vacation(13 days) or does it really matter to my dog who loves me to death?

A. You really should bring her inside :( Even if she can only go in the living room or kitchen it is really important for a dog to be with you.

Instead of leaving a picture of yourself leave a tshirt that you've worn. Dogs use their sense of smell more than sight, so it will matter more to her to have something of you she can smell.

Also you can play with her outside often to sort of wear her out and make her tired. Then when she comes in she will not be rambunctious. Here is an article about some things you can do:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1717428/fun_outdoor_activities_anyone_can_enjoy.html

Original Question

How come my dog won't sit with me much anymore?

Q. My dog is a very sweet dog. But every time my folks are out somewhere she sits in the dining room, or in my bedroom, when I'm sitting in the family room. Usually dogs like to be next to their owner. Is this sign of depression or just being a "watch" dog?

A. my two follow me when i go to bed or the toilet sometimes only 1 will follow..
its not depression.. they like certain spots to lay down and sometimes its just as they get older they change a little and become used to a routine..
she could be going to the best place where she can hear your folks coming back.

Original Question

Is a real messy home a sign of mental illness?

Q. My brother's wife has never kept a clean house, but this year, it seems to have really gone to the dogs. When a person lives in a home with every room a mess, is this a sign of clinical depression or some other disorder? We do get good exercise each time we visit, climbing over the many piles and obstacles, so we haven't minded it, but should we suggest a visit to a doctor, maybe, if ever they are unable to open the front or back door?

A. More likely it's a sign of filth and sheer laziness, not mental illness. Some people just don't care how nasty they are but, as an example, those with OCD must have their home spotlessly clean and as germ-free as possible, depending on how bad their obsession is. Still, depending on what mental issues one has, they can certainly be filthy. So basically, it depends on the person as to whether their filth is mental or not.

Original Question

A week ago, I accidentally gave my dog four tubes of Advantage flea control all at once. Is this dangerous?

Q. I later realized that each tube was to last an entire month. She appears to be fine other than slight signs of depression, although I did see those signs before the incident.

A. Ask your vet. Phone call's free. ;)

Original Question

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Dog not eating? Help!?

Q. Our dog has not been eating and we cannot figure out why. He doesn't seem to have any other signs of dog depression, and we have been spending as much time with his as possible. We plan to take him to the vet but can't get in for two weeks! Any suggestions as to what we can do in this time? We're really worried, it's been several days since he's last eaten.

A. Your dog may have a blockage in the intestine or something worse. You NEED to get the dog to the an animal hospital now. Call every vet in the area if you have to but do not wait any longer.

Original Question

Signs of depression... need some advice?

Q. About six months ago I had what my doctors told me was a mini stroke. There were some things that happened to my speech and my thought process too. It has taken some time but I feel like I am close to feeling back to normal. The problem is that I have noticed that I am being more lazy and that I like to be alone. I choose to not go out and our dog annoys me now... and sometimes my wife seems too close. I have slept in the guest room some nights just because it feels comfortable and relaxing. I know that I am not socializing well with others and things that used to bring me joy or relaxation no longer do much for me. Does any of this sound like signs of depression to you... and is there a way I can work on this without taking prescription drugs. Thanks for any input.

A. my grandfather just had a mini stroke too...
just don't seclude yourself from the rest of the world
if you need to you can always find someone to talk to

Original Question

My mom has all the signs for depression and my dad says he knows she has it to but i don't know what to do>?

Q. I have been struggling for a long time now. My mom has depression and she doesn't know it. My dad agrees she has it and we talked for a couple days about what to do because it has been weighing me down for too long. I was trying to figure out what to do. Then it is his anniversary came up in two days and the day before i had youth group and he tells me that night i change on the days i have youth grup. I have no clue why he said this wehn he works all day. He was taking my moms word. My mom is the one who does most 99.9 percent of stuff. I admitt i do things after she has done stuff out of anger. I will yell or say things i dont mean.

Examples ~ i help her by filling a 1/4 cup of milk for mac and cheese and she goes its not all the way full. yeah maybe just a tinnnnnnest bit not goibng to hurt anything then i get in trouble for argueing and i didnt. I cant stand it anymore i cry myslef to sleep and i jsut cant handle it. I am homeschooled and dont want to go to public school.
Another example ~ she brings my clothes upstairs from basement and lays over couch. I dont like them over the couch so i think of what to say and polietky say could u not bring my clothes up and lay over coch i dont like them over it and i told her eirlier i weould get them later today and she yelled at me for telling her what to do when i asked and i told her that i asked and asking and telling makes a huge difference

but anywas i got introuble that means no phone which i need for babysitting pruposes and then no ipod which i enjoy no ministry events in my youth group we are going to a church on wed and she told me i acnt go that is not time to fellowship thats worship so i need help my dad doesnt beleive me anymore and wont do anything if i try i will get in more trouble my dad wont help me he believes her and i am so sorry this is so long. I told one friend and she doesnt know what to do. I am a very good girl not doing things behind parents backs. I dont know who to tell. I have read so many things,. My dad ifhe gest super stressed could have a heart attack and i am worrited about him if she leaves then she could do something and i jsut want to get her helped and if she leaves my dog could get depressed and die and then my dad said we dont have money to help her and if he says something to her she will leave and he doestn want that so please help i need out of this situation it is conflicting with my school and my well being ~ i am a teen and 4 years till i can move out i cant last taht long

I don't know how to who should I go to ~ I am getting blamed for everything its all my fault to both parents and I have no clue who to confide in

My mom has depression ~ those were just to quick examples that happened recently ~ I try my best around her but she changes things and my dad is now believing her and he never cuses and he got so mad yesterday that he did
Thank you stn 1225 ~ I will keep talking to him and hope he does something and I know he believes her but if I cant i will go to another friend and then maybe her mom too

A. You did not say how old you were. Assuming you are still fairly young (15)... Children with troubled parents always thinks it is their responsibility to fix their parent. The truth is you can't fix her. She has to choose to fix herself. You are fortunate to have your father in the picture, so confide in him your worries and plead with him to do something. If he keeps being stubborn, then go to the school counselor.

Important to note, you should keep your spirits up when around her. The slip into depression is very easy and if she sense your anxiety it will compound hers.

Original Question

Could i be going into early signs of depression?

Q. My dog died a year ago. i saw him get ranover and the scream he made replays in my head over and over again.we were very close
i fill like i lost a part of me.since then ive been different

every day i find myself easily crying at his name or pictures of him or just anything that reminds me of him.
im afraid to cross the highways now since he died on one.
i seem to get irritated easily
i have had thoughts of suicide but to afraid to atempt it or sin
i have a couple of my time bit myself or stabbed my self in anger but only with broken rulers or my nails and once i did it 3times with a soweing needle.ive stopped though and only do it when im irritated
my guardians dont know and im only 13?what should i do whats wrong with this?

Oh and not all of this is caause of loseing my dog its cause of my relationship arguements daily to.

A. You definitely have signs of depression. Talk to your guardians or another adult about what is going on, you need to see a therapist. This isn't really 'early' depression if its been like this for a year? Lots of teenagers and even kids are depressed, so it isn't unusual exactly but you do really need someone to help you deal with all of this.

Original Question

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Is a real messy home a sign of mental illness?

Q. My brother's wife has never kept a clean house, but this year, it seems to have really gone to the dogs. When a person lives in a home with every room a mess, is this a sign of clinical depression or some other disorder? We do get good exercise each time we visit, climbing over the many piles and obstacles, so we haven't minded it, but should we suggest a visit to a doctor, maybe, if ever they are unable to open the front or back door?

A. More likely it's a sign of filth and sheer laziness, not mental illness. Some people just don't care how nasty they are but, as an example, those with OCD must have their home spotlessly clean and as germ-free as possible, depending on how bad their obsession is. Still, depending on what mental issues one has, they can certainly be filthy. So basically, it depends on the person as to whether their filth is mental or not.

Original Question

How much attention should I give my outside dog?

Q. She is use to being alone, but absolutely loves me and every single time I play with her, like she can't get enough of it and it won't last. And I feel bad for it but she never scratches at the door, bark, or whine. So I assume she's fine. So two other questions.
1) What are some signs of depression?
2) Should I leave a picture of me while I leave for vacation(13 days) or does it really matter to my dog who loves me to death?

A. You really should bring her inside :( Even if she can only go in the living room or kitchen it is really important for a dog to be with you.

Instead of leaving a picture of yourself leave a tshirt that you've worn. Dogs use their sense of smell more than sight, so it will matter more to her to have something of you she can smell.

Also you can play with her outside often to sort of wear her out and make her tired. Then when she comes in she will not be rambunctious. Here is an article about some things you can do:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1717428/fun_outdoor_activities_anyone_can_enjoy.html

Original Question

Why is my dog showing signs of depression?

Q. I have a twelve year old yellow labrador and lately, she hasn't been wanting to eat, isn't running around like she used to, and is showing sings of depression. I'm not sure what's happening.

A. 0o0o0o0o0o Labs are wonderful dogs, and very lovable. 12 Years old is a long life for a lab and at this point you dog has seen her better years. Your dog is most likely in pain and not feeling well and she will never be the pup that you remember. I just lost my 11 year old lab and he showed the same signs in his last year or so. Fact is 11-12 is very old for these dogs. Its very hard loosing one of these dogs cos they get so close to ya.

Original Question

How do I know if it's the meds that are working to some degree?

Q. Serious replies only! Before I started meds for depression year ago, I use to be supersensitive, cry a lot and be emotional. I don't get all emotional or cry anymore. I know I still am depressed because I still have bad dreams, feeling of hopelessness and go on a shopping spree or anything to try to cheer myself up. Is this a sign of maturity or is it the meds working? How can I tell? I am still depressed and miserable but I am just not crying about it. Does anyone know? Of course, this is preferrable to embarassing myself in public or private. I wish I was this indifferent when worst things were happening in my life in the past. I still can't concentrate because I am depressed with my life. Like sometimes, I still think I want hurt myself or it wouldn't matter if I didn't wake up the next day. I feel indifferent. I am lonely even with people because no one understands.
I am extremely thankful and appreciative for the three kind responses (except for House - who is obviously a *&#@! bc I specifically asked for serious replies only). I was never sure whether I just got more mature and stop caring about things or if it was just the meds.
Earlier, I had to take my Pa to the hospital. Then when I got home, I felt depressed again and even teary eyed. Does this mean the meds stop working? My doc is on vacation until next month.

A. I UNDERSTAND! I've been diagnosed with depression (and a couple other "disorders") for 4 years. Lots of other people understand, too! An estimated 40% of people (at least in the US) will have depression at some point in their lives, according to DSM-IV criteria (you might already know this, but the DSM is basically the god of psychological diagnosis standards).

Feeling numb and indifferent is a very common result of anti-depressants.... a lot of people with depression want to be numb, and find it relieving to not have to feel anything at all. But a lot of people (including me) hate it, and see feeling numb as only a small step above being depressed... I don't know, but it sounds like you might agree: at least you're not crying all the time but you're still struggling...

You need to bring this up with a psychiatrist AND a therapist, both of whom you feel comfortable with, and keep trying different things until something works--until you can concentrate on and be happy with your life.... eventually things WILL get better, thats the way life goes--up and down--but, unfortunately, it will take work... depression doesn't go away on it's own, and medicines aren't miracle workers: you have to work with them.... but believe me, I know it's HARD hard work when you're very depressed, I've almost given up many many times... but I've finally found a good therapist/psychiatrist combo (and I've gone through several of them), who've helped me tremendously with my pessimism & low self-esteem.

Try to be optimistic; things will get better. I know it sounds lame, but try keeping a journal of the things that you appreciate or that make you happy... your dog? your friends? a movie? a song? I've always been extremely pessimistic, and I still very much am... but I forced myself to try to be more optimistic and to look at the good things in my life, and it's really helped a lot.... comedy also really helps a lot, when I'm down... go rent a funny movie!

Good luck, and know that a LOT of people understand and know what you're going through!!

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