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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 6 of 6. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by disney4 on February 10, 2003, at 13:14:40
After numerous trials with AD's and Anxiety meds, I am becoming a believer in the structured day theory to alleviate depression. I have tried it before, but a key ingrediant was missing, which was kindness towards myself while accomplishing (or not accomplishing)tasks. Each day for the past couple of weeks, I have been fixing myself good food, finishing a small household chore or two, doing some easy exercise on a recumbant bike, spending a little time on the computer, writing down my feelings in a journal, and seeing a therapist. I realize these are not new ideas, but for me they are finally working, because I have discovered that I can be good to myself and still get things done. During stressful situations, I tell myself that once this is handled, another thing will occur to take its place, so just deal with it as best you can, but don't think it will end, (at least not while I'm alive, that is)! Thanks for listening, and all the wonderful suggestions over the past month!
Posted by noa on February 11, 2003, at 18:54:49
In reply to Hi All, I'm feeling better with structure, posted by disney4 on February 10, 2003, at 13:14:40
That is great. I have difficulty creating and maintaining structure for myself. On work days, the structure is provided so I am usually better, but on weekends, I am lazy and unmotivated and apathetic.
Posted by disney4 on February 13, 2003, at 12:51:05
In reply to Re: Hi All, I'm feeling better with structure, posted by noa on February 11, 2003, at 18:54:49
I don't like to hear any one put them self down. Give yourself the same break you would a friend. This is an illness like any other, and it is very hard to become motivated enough to do the very things that will make us feel better. Start out slow, and try doing a small task. Then notice how you feel after doing it. I tell myself I don't have to do whatever it is I'm doing. I give myself permission to stop when I want to, because the alternative is to get nothing accomplished. The older I get, the more I believe its the little every day things we do that make all the difference.
Posted by Tabitha on February 13, 2003, at 14:08:37
In reply to Hi All, I'm feeling better with structure, posted by disney4 on February 10, 2003, at 13:14:40
Hi, thanks for your post, it's inspiring. I've always been intellectually convinced that I need the same thing-- just the simple basics each day, and a better routine. Instead I let the daily stresses blow away my good intentions time after time.
How were you able to manage to start having a regular routine? Was it difficult?
Posted by disney4 on February 13, 2003, at 19:12:59
In reply to Re: Hi All, I'm feeling better with structure » disney4, posted by Tabitha on February 13, 2003, at 14:08:37
It was hard when I tried it a few years ago, but I was looking at the whole process wrong. I was thinking of all the things I HAD to do, instead of trying things out, and allowing myself some leeway. This time I started by taking on a small task, and seeing how I felt afterwards. As I started feeling better, I did a little more each day, but I allow myself to stop when I need to. I would rather get half of something done, than nothing at all. I am looking at daily stress differently too. I handle the issue as best I can, but I no longer feel I have to solve everything right away. I know there is always another stressful something that will arise, no matter what, and that helps me get on with life in a more positive way.
Posted by zeugma on February 13, 2003, at 20:17:30
In reply to Re: Hi All, I'm feeling better with structure » Tabitha, posted by disney4 on February 13, 2003, at 19:12:59
Hi Elsie,
I'm glad you are finding structure helpful in dealing with difficulties. There have been times in my life when I was able to achieve positive results with structure alone, but the last few years that hasn't been working. Anyway I'm very happy you are feeling better.
This is the end of the thread.
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