Yesterday, we talked about whether you could really know if you were depressed while also suffering chronic pain and taking pain medication. So let’s continue from there and ask the question; do I need to be treated for depression? I mean, if we aren’t sure it’s depression at all, then won’t we just feel better in time? Maybe it’s the pain medication and I just need to wait it out. Are you sure that’s the right answer?
There is still a terrible stigma related to “mental health”, even today. However, I want you to look at what I wrote yesterday about my RNP being able to predict my need for help. It’s expected that a chronic pain patient will, at times, fall into depression; it’s okay! It is never easy to go from being a doer, to becoming needy. Chronic pain has a way of stripping some of your dignity, and that’s not easy to deal with. I guess what I’m saying is, it’s not a matter of whether people think you’re nuts, it’s a matter of dealing with a different facet of your disability. Your mental health is no different than your physical or spiritual health. It’s a critical part of you, so why not make sure it remains clear and functioning at optimum efficiency? How about you? Will you look for treatment if you just unsure if you’re depressed? Will you let social stigma keep you from being healthy in your mental state, just like you’re doing for your physical one? If you even think you may be heading toward clinical depression, seek solid medical advice immediately; and by all means, have a partner with you who knows you and can help. If you don’t have someone like that, let’s do this together.
You are so right about mental health. some people live with depression, and that is so sad. But a lot of the meds make some worse,so they are just trapped in an almost daily struggle. I feel so sorry for these people. ,Blessings jane
ReplyDeleteThank you Jane. You're right, medication may not always be the way because the side effects are so harmful, but treatment is important; like you I hope people don't just try and live with depression without some help. I appreciate your comments. God bless, Tom
ReplyDeleteIn the case of my Jack, he definitely needed help and medication for his depression. He was VERY angry, sometimes threatened suicide and it was rough for us both. Now with the medication, I see the old Jack again. Silly, loving, happy. Just the way I like him!
ReplyDeleteMichelle, I'm so glad it worked for Jack, and kudos to him for getting treated. For so many guys getting angry is all too common, but getting treated is not. I pray you both enjoy many loving and silly years to come! Tom
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