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Should I go to counseling, could I be depressed?
I have become very complacent and lazy the past 6 months. I have been doing only the bare minimum at work, home and in my marriage. I am unhappy, sad, angry at myself and very disappointed. I wonder if I'm depressed. I am not myself anymore. I have lost my drive and focus in life. I can't sleep and often stay up until 2 or 3 am and wake up late. I am scared that I am going to wake up one morning and realize that my life has passed me by. I am very blessed I have a wonderful husband, a beautiful son and a great job that I am scared I'm about to loose because of my laziness.
First of all, kudos to you for sharing your experience. So many people experience symptoms of depression and ignore them because of feelings of embarrassment or shame.
I think that it is definitely important that you see a doctor. Even if you are not depressed, he or she will be able to tell you what IS going on with you. You could be anemic (low iron) or have chronic fatigue syndrome -- it could be anything.
You do show many of the signs of depression, and it is important that you take care of yourself and seek medical help. Again, you are not alone. Thousands of people feel exactly as you do. Keep your husband and baby in mind, and if you don't see a doctor for you, then do it for them. You will feel so relieved when you get the help you need.
I wish you well -- Caroline
Hi dastoddart,
Even if you aren't clinically depressed, it can't hurt to see a counselor to talk about these feelings you're having. Victoria is right that you could have a thyroid problem or some other physical ailment that's causing you to be lethargic. However, we could all use a little tune up every once in a while, regardless of how we're feeling.
Hi, dastoddart
I'm not a medical professional, but you have some of the symptoms, like a loss of desire or motivation.
You're not lazy ... you probably have some kind of imbalance in your system, maybe even an underactive thyroid--many women do and don't even know it.
Make an appointment to see your doctor to talk about how you're feeling. Take a look at how some changes in your diet and regular routine can get you back on track.
Consider getting a B-12 shot ... you might benefit from the boost.
Try to get sunlight on your face in these darker days. That will boost your mood and energy level and work in some exercise (even a walk around the block will do you good).
Read this piece we've put together about depression and anxiety. Some good tips are contained therein:
Link
Also, check out some of the experts we have on this site. They have some good advice to share as well.
Link
You have a positive attitude, which counts for so much. Thank you for sharing. I hope you feel better soon.
Victoria
