Overcoming Severe Depression: A Journey Towards Healing and Hope

Q: Overcoming Severe Depression: A Journey Towards Healing and Hope

Hello Alice： Being in the midst of depression is very challenging, but with treatment, most people do recover. <br>You have been undergoing treatment for three months and have noticed some positive effects, but negative and pessimistic thoughts still arise. <br>This is a common p

Major Depressive Disorder

I have been suffering from severe depression for three months.
I regularly take antidepressants and antipsychotic medications.
When I feel overwhelmed by work stress and exhaustion, I often think that I am useless and do not deserve to live in this world.
I isolate myself and cry, usually when I return home alone at night.
After taking my medication, I gradually calm down.
Occasionally, I recall the day I attempted suicide, when I swallowed an entire month's supply of my anti-anxiety medication.
My friends tell me I should be grateful that the emergency room doctors saved me that day, but I don't feel that way at all.
I don't know what the purpose of living is anymore; every thought I have is negative.
Whenever I tell my psychiatrist that I want to commit suicide, they suggest hospitalization, but I don't know what methods can help me return to normal.
I cannot control my racing thoughts or the impulse to end my life.

Alice, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/03

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello Alice: Being in the midst of depression is very challenging, but with treatment, most people do recover.
You have been undergoing treatment for three months and have noticed some positive effects, but negative and pessimistic thoughts still arise.
This is a common phenomenon during the treatment phase of depression.
Your current situation is like being in a dark tunnel, feeling lonely and engulfed in darkness.
However, as long as you continue to move forward in the right direction and do not give up, you will eventually emerge from the tunnel and see the light again.
Think about yourself and the family and friends who care about you; sometimes, we endure this temporary pain not just for ourselves, but also for those around us.
However, if depression is severe and there is a high risk of suicide, inpatient treatment can indeed reduce that risk and help us through the most dangerous times.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2016/06/03

More Info

Overcoming severe depression is undoubtedly a challenging journey, but it is essential to recognize that healing is possible. Your experience reflects a profound struggle with feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and the overwhelming weight of emotional pain. It’s crucial to understand that these feelings, while intense, are symptoms of your condition and do not define your true value as a person.

Firstly, it’s commendable that you are actively seeking help through medication and therapy. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can play a significant role in stabilizing mood and alleviating symptoms of depression. However, it’s important to remember that medication alone may not be sufficient. It often works best in conjunction with psychotherapy, which can provide you with tools to manage your thoughts and feelings more effectively.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one approach that has shown effectiveness in treating depression. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and replacing them with more balanced and realistic ones. This can help you break the cycle of negative thinking that contributes to feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. Additionally, engaging in mindfulness practices can help you stay grounded in the present moment, reducing the tendency to ruminate on past events or future uncertainties.

It’s also vital to build a support system. While it may feel isolating, reaching out to friends, family, or support groups can provide you with a sense of connection and understanding. Sharing your feelings with others who have experienced similar struggles can be incredibly validating and can help you feel less alone. Remember, it’s okay to lean on others during this time; you don’t have to navigate this journey by yourself.

In moments of intense emotional pain, it’s essential to have coping strategies in place. When you feel the urge to isolate or engage in self-destructive behaviors, consider implementing grounding techniques. These can include deep breathing exercises, engaging in physical activity, or practicing creative outlets like writing or art. Finding activities that bring you joy, even in small doses, can help shift your focus away from negative thoughts.

It’s understandable to feel frustrated when your doctor suggests hospitalization, especially if you feel that you’re not in immediate danger. However, hospitalization can provide a safe environment where you can receive intensive support and monitoring. It’s a place to stabilize your condition and develop a more structured treatment plan. If you’re hesitant about this option, consider discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help you explore alternatives that may feel more comfortable while still ensuring your safety.

Lastly, it’s crucial to practice self-compassion. Acknowledge that you are going through a difficult time and that it’s okay to feel the way you do. Try to treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend in a similar situation. Celebrate small victories, whether it’s getting out of bed, taking a shower, or reaching out to someone. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a testament to your strength and resilience.

In conclusion, overcoming severe depression is a multifaceted process that requires patience, support, and a willingness to engage in various forms of treatment. While the journey may feel daunting, remember that healing is possible. By combining medication, therapy, and self-care strategies, you can work towards reclaiming your life and finding hope for the future. You are not alone in this struggle, and there are people and resources available to support you every step of the way.

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