[MigiRae]

THANK YOU to Runemist34!! I LOVE your idea of not fighting my depression or anxiety. I get exhausted fighting myself on a daily basis. I never thought I had the option of just hanging out with it – just BEING. I think this will help me

garynnnjb – Know that you are NOT alone. I also don’t use medication but that’s been my choice for years. I’ve known people who have benefitted from meds & people who didn’t. You have to do what works for you & what’s best for you.
Creative outlets help me music, dance & writing. I also see a therapist on occasion. I also have a hard time relaxing so reading & baths help with that.

I hope you find your peace.

[MigiRae]

Hey Shadow!
I hope you see that you have a lot of support! So many great suggestions!
I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety many years ago. I chose not to take meds, but that was my personal decision because I saw close relatives on meds have that zombie-like experience. I have been seeing a LMHC (licensed mental health counselor) on & off for years. When things are hard I may see her once a week. When I’m doing well I may not see her for months.
I’m also a writer. I have found that between cognitive/talk therapy and journaling (the old fashion way – pen to paper)I have found peace. Long ago I thought I could be “cured” but I know now this is not the case so I’ve had to learn to live with myself & make peace with my condition.
My advice is to see a professional if you can. Finding someone you click with is important. Also you should be able to find someone who will see you at a discount if you don’t have insurance.
Try journaling. Even if you can just write for 10 min a day at first. I know it really helped me sort out & accept my feelings.
Most importantly do what is BEST for YOU. Don’t listen to what anyone else has to say (including me!) if it doesn’t work for you. You are the only one that has to deal with yourself 24/7. This may take some trial & error, but you are worth it. If something works for you (meds, exercise etc) great! If something doesn’t work for you (writing, meditating) drop it & move on. Life is too short.
Continue to reach out here if you need to. Sounds like there are many of us who understand
I hope you find your strength and your peace.