Overcoming Major Depressive Disorder: A Journey to Healing and Hope

Q: Overcoming Major Depressive Disorder: A Journey to Healing and Hope

Hello Jessie： Being in the midst of depression is a challenging process, but the struggle can lead to rewards. <br>With appropriate treatment, most individuals can improve from depression. <br>Support from family, kindness from colleagues, and your own willingness to get better a

Major Depressive Disorder

I have been having suicidal thoughts for several months.
I previously reached out to friends and family for help, and they managed to dissuade me from these thoughts.
Each time I felt this way, it was due to being overwhelmed and stressed at work, leading to many negative thoughts.
Last week, I impulsively took a large amount of sedative and sleeping pills without giving anyone around me a chance to intervene.
My family immediately took me to the emergency room for gastric lavage.
After being discharged, I rested at home for a few days, often crying alone in my room.
My family constantly checked on me, and during meal times, I couldn't eat anything.
All my medications were confiscated.
I had anti-anxiety medication prescribed for my previously diagnosed autonomic nervous system disorder, which manifested as chest pain and nighttime palpitations.
I had never seen a psychiatrist before.
That day, my family took me to see a psychiatrist, who diagnosed me with Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode, and prescribed me 10 mg of Escitalopram.
I have just started the medication for a week, and I have a follow-up appointment this Saturday.
Over the past few days, I have frequently experienced headaches and found myself zoning out at work.
I fear being alone, I fear losing control and harming myself again, and I fear going to work because I don't know if I can make it through the day safely.
I often think about that day when I contemplated suicide, and my mind is filled with worries and fears.
My family encourages me often, but they say that while they support me, the rest is up to me.
I want to improve so that my family and everyone around me can feel at ease.
Today, I finally managed to smile, thanks to a colleague who helped me at work.
My colleague, knowing about my mental health struggles, has been particularly caring.
However, my family tells me that happiness cannot rely on others.
My mind feels chaotic, and I can't stop the racing thoughts.

jessie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/09

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello Jessie: Being in the midst of depression is a challenging process, but the struggle can lead to rewards.
With appropriate treatment, most individuals can improve from depression.
Support from family, kindness from colleagues, and your own willingness to get better are all crucial factors in recovery.
During the recovery process, it is inevitable to experience negative thoughts and some overthinking.
It is advisable to accept that it is a fact of your current self to have these intrusive thoughts.
When you notice yourself overthinking, remind yourself to stop and redirect your attention to other more meaningful activities to get through this transitional period.
When family says, "Happiness cannot depend on others," they likely hope that one day you will have the ability to find happiness within yourself.
The kindness from colleagues is still something to be grateful for and happy about; these two perspectives are not mutually exclusive.
During depression, thoughts tend to be pessimistic, so it is recommended to practice recognizing overly negative thoughts, to call a halt when necessary, and to focus your mind on other beautiful things.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2016/03/09

More Info

Overcoming Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is indeed a challenging journey, but it is also a path filled with potential for healing and hope. Your experience reflects the struggles many face when dealing with depression, especially when it manifests in thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It's crucial to understand that these feelings, while overwhelming, can be addressed through a combination of medical treatment, psychological support, and personal effort.

Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge the severity of your situation. Having thoughts of wanting to end your life is a serious matter and indicates that you are in a state of crisis. It’s commendable that you reached out for help from friends and family, and that they responded by supporting you. This support system is vital in your recovery process. However, it’s also essential to recognize that while external support is invaluable, the journey to healing ultimately requires internal motivation and action.

You mentioned that you have been prescribed medication, specifically an antidepressant. Medications like these can take time to show their full effects, often requiring several weeks to months to stabilize mood and alleviate symptoms. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience, such as headaches or feelings of disconnection, as these can inform adjustments to your treatment plan.

In addition to medication, therapy plays a significant role in managing MDD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for depression, as it helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. Engaging in therapy can provide you with tools to cope with overwhelming emotions and thoughts, allowing you to express feelings that you may have been protecting or hiding from others. It’s a safe space where you can explore your feelings without judgment.

You also mentioned the importance of self-care activities such as exercise and spending time with supportive colleagues. These activities can significantly improve your mood and overall well-being. Regular physical activity is known to release endorphins, which can help combat feelings of sadness and anxiety. Additionally, finding hobbies or interests that bring you joy can serve as a distraction from negative thoughts and provide a sense of accomplishment.

It’s understandable to feel a sense of pressure to recover quickly, especially when you are aware of the concerns your family has for your future. However, recovery from depression is often not linear; there will be good days and bad days. It’s important to practice self-compassion and recognize that healing takes time. Setting small, achievable goals can help you regain a sense of control and purpose in your life.

Lastly, consider the importance of mindfulness and grounding techniques. These practices can help you stay present and reduce anxiety about the future. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or even simple mindfulness exercises can help you manage overwhelming emotions and thoughts.

In conclusion, overcoming Major Depressive Disorder is a multifaceted process that involves medical treatment, psychological support, and personal effort. It’s essential to remain engaged with your healthcare providers, utilize your support system, and actively participate in your healing journey. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and lean on others, but ultimately, the path to recovery is one that you will navigate with your own strength and resilience. You are not alone in this journey, and with time and effort, it is possible to find hope and joy again.

Similar Q&A

Finding Hope: Navigating the Journey Through Depression and Healing

Sometimes I don't understand why I suddenly fall into depression, and I ask myself what I'm living for. I've seen doctors and undergone medication treatment, but the results show that I have to rely on myself to overcome the lows of depression. I have taken a lot o...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, You-Zhen: In depression, the brain tends to lean towards pessimism and negativity, but it won't remain that way forever. Leaving a stressful environment can help you feel better; traveling and exercising can also bring you joy. You have the motivation to improve, the ...

Overcoming Despair: Finding Hope Amidst Mental Health Struggles

Good afternoon, Dr. Chen: I am currently facing the most frustrating situation that has led me to have suicidal thoughts, but it seems that fate is not on my side. I may not have cut deep enough. I am alive. When I think about living, my first thought is to improve myself and res...

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello Xiaoqian: Based on the situation you described, it appears that you may be experiencing "severe depression with psychotic features." Relying solely on willpower, psychotherapy, or sedatives and sleeping pills will not resolve your current issues. The best course o...

Feeling Stuck: Navigating Mental Health Challenges and Finding Hope

In the morning, I often wake up feeling heavy-hearted, and even if I wake up a little earlier, I find myself frequently checking the time and noticing that an hour has passed. It seems like there’s nothing interesting happening in my life, and I feel a lack of motivation to reach...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, In your letter, you mentioned several symptoms of depression, but did not specify any particular life stressors that might be contributing to this. Therefore, we will discuss the management and adjustment of depressive symptoms. When a person is feeling depressed and unh...

Overcoming Emotional Instability: A Journey Through Depression and Therapy

I am a patient with depression, and I know that I am very stubborn. Whenever it's time to take my medication, I tend to hide it. Since my onset of illness in March, I seem unable to accept this part of myself. Even when the doctor suggested hospitalization, I chose to avoid ...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Whether it is medication therapy or psychotherapy, patience is essential, and it takes consistent treatment over time to see improvement. Many past negative events may become intertwined when you are feeling down, making it difficult to see clearly or resolve emotional kno...