Feeling hopeless about my depression

[Ecdysis]

5. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): In some cases, hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed to manage menopause symptoms, including mood disturbances. Speak with a healthcare professional to discuss the potential risks and benefits of HRT.

Is there evidence to show that HRT can help with depression caused by menopause?

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Is there evidence to show that HRT can help with depression caused by menopause?

While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is primarily prescribed to manage physical symptoms of menopause like hot flashes and vaginal dryness, it may have some impact on mood symptoms, including depression, associated with menopause. It's important to note that individual responses to HRT can vary, and it may not be effective or appropriate for everyone.

The evidence regarding the effectiveness of HRT specifically for treating depression associated with menopause is somewhat mixed. Some studies suggest that estrogen-based HRT may have a beneficial effect in improving mood symptoms, including depressive symptoms. Estrogen is thought to have a positive impact on neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. However, other studies have not found a significant effect on depression with HRT.

It's essential to note that there are multiple factors that can contribute to depression during menopause, including life changes, social support, and other hormonal changes. This complexity makes it challenging to attribute depressive symptoms solely to menopause and to determine the specific effects of HRT on depression.

If you are considering HRT as a potential treatment option for depression associated with menopause, I encourage you to have an open and honest discussion with a healthcare professional who specializes in menopause. They can help assess your specific situation, discuss the potential risks and benefits of HRT, and help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.

Remember, managing depression during menopause often requires a multifaceted approach. Alongside considering HRT, it can be beneficial to explore other treatment options such as therapy, support groups, lifestyle modifications, and self-care practices. By addressing the various aspects of your well-being, you can work towards finding the most effective strategies for managing your symptoms.

 

[Ecdysis]

I was on HRT for a while and I think it helped. I stopped using it because I experienced some problems with it. Now I'm unsure as to whether to try using it again.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

I was on HRT for a while and I think it helped. I stopped using it because I experienced some problems with it. Now I'm unsure as to whether to try using it again.

It's understandable that you would feel unsure about whether to try hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) again, especially if you had experienced problems with it in the past. Making decisions about treatment options is a personal choice, and it's important to consider various factors before reaching a decision. Here are some points to consider:

1. Consultation with a healthcare professional: I strongly recommend discussing your concerns and past experiences with a healthcare professional who specializes in menopause. They can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation of your individual situation, review potential risks and benefits of HRT, and address any specific concerns or questions you may have.

2. Understanding previous problems: It can be helpful to identify and understand the specific problems you experienced while on HRT. Were they related to side effects, interactions with other medications, or underlying medical conditions? By pinpointing the issues, you and your healthcare professional can explore potential ways to mitigate or address them, potentially allowing for a more positive experience with HRT if you choose to try it again.

3. Consider non-hormonal treatment alternatives: There are alternatives to HRT that may help manage menopause symptoms, including non-hormonal medications and lifestyle modifications. These options might be worth discussing with your healthcare professional to explore potential alternatives or complementary approaches to manage your symptoms.

4. Weighing risks and benefits: It's essential to consider the potential risks and benefits of HRT based on your individual circumstances. Some women find that the benefits of HRT, including improvements in mood symptoms, outweigh the risks when properly monitored. However, it's crucial to evaluate these factors and make an informed decision that is best for you.

Ultimately, the decision to try HRT again is yours to make. Working closely with a healthcare professional who has expertise in menopause can provide you with the necessary guidance and support to make an informed choice. They can also help monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Remember, there are multiple treatment options available for managing menopause symptoms and depression, so it's worth exploring different approaches to find what works best for you.

 

[Ecdysis]

How does learning "acceptance" help with depression and trauma?

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

How does learning "acceptance" help with depression and trauma?

Learning acceptance can play a significant role in managing depression and trauma symptoms. It is important to clarify that acceptance does not mean giving up or resigning oneself to a difficult situation. Instead, it involves acknowledging and facing the reality of the challenges you've experienced and finding ways to adapt and move forward.

Here are a few ways in which learning acceptance can be beneficial:

1. Reducing emotional resistance: Traumatic experiences and depression often bring intense and overwhelming emotions. Acceptance involves allowing yourself to fully experience and validate these emotions. By acknowledging and accepting your emotions, you can reduce emotional resistance and the added distress that can come from fighting against them.

2. Building resilience: Acceptance promotes resilience by helping you develop a greater sense of self-compassion and self-care. It involves recognizing that your experiences and emotions are valid and understandable responses to difficult circumstances. When you validate your own experiences, you can cultivate greater inner strength and bounce back from setbacks.

3. Shifting focus to what you can control: Trauma and depression can make individuals feel helpless and out of control. Acceptance allows for a shift in focus towards what is within your control, such as seeking support, engaging in self-care, and making choices that enhance your overall well-being. This shift empowers you to take an active role in your recovery and regain a sense of agency.

4. Breaking free from rumination: Depression and trauma often involve rumination, or repetitive, negative thinking patterns. Acceptance encourages mindfulness and being present in the here and now. By focusing on the present instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, you can break free from rumination and reduce the impact of these negative thinking patterns on your mental well-being.

5. Encouraging growth and post-traumatic growth: Acceptance can be a stepping stone towards growth and post-traumatic growth. Through acceptance, individuals have the opportunity to learn from their experiences, gain new perspectives, and cultivate personal growth. It creates space for finding meaning and purpose in life beyond the trauma or depression.

It's important to remember that accepting difficult emotions, experiences, or traumas can take time, and the process is different for everyone. If you find it challenging to navigate these emotions and experiences on your own, seeking the support of a mental health professional who specializes in trauma and depression can provide additional guidance and assistance.

 

[Ecdysis]

I was re-traumatised a few years ago. Since then some major negative events, losses and deaths have occurred in my life too.

I no longer feel any connection to my "old" life. I feel like everything has changed and nothing remains the same, especially not me.

I'm in my late 40s. I don't know how to start my life from scratch but I feel like I have to let go of everything that once was.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

I was re-traumatised a few years ago. Since then some major negative events, losses and deaths have occurred in my life too.

I no longer feel any connection to my "old" life. I feel like everything has changed and nothing remains the same, especially not me.

I'm in my late 40s. I don't know how to start my life from scratch but I feel like I have to let go of everything that once was.

I'm truly sorry to hear about the multiple traumas, losses, and significant life changes you've experienced recently. It's natural to feel disconnected from your "old" life and to have a sense of uncertainty about how to move forward. While it may feel overwhelming, there are steps you can take to navigate this process of starting anew. Here are some suggestions:

1. Allow yourself to grieve: It's important to acknowledge and process the losses and changes you've experienced. Give yourself permission to grieve for what has been lost and recognize that it's normal to mourn the changes in your life. This process can be an important part of healing and finding closure.

2. Seek support: Reach out for support from trusted friends, family, or a therapist experienced in trauma and major life transitions. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others who can provide empathetic support can help you process your emotions and gain perspective.

3. Reflect on your values and priorities: Take some time to explore your values, passions, and what truly matters to you. This reflection can provide a foundation for rebuilding your life. Consider what aspects of your past life you'd like to hold onto and what new experiences or opportunities you'd like to explore.

4. Set small, achievable goals: Starting from scratch can feel overwhelming, so break the process down into smaller, manageable steps. Set achievable goals that align with your values and priorities. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small, as it can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.

5. Explore new possibilities: Embrace the opportunity for growth and reinvention. Consider new hobbies, activities, or career paths that interest you. Explore new relationships or reconnect with old friends who may provide support and understanding during this time.

6. Practice self-care: Nurturing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is crucial during times of transition and rebuilding. Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and self-compassion. This can include exercise, mindfulness, connecting with nature, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets.

Remember that starting over takes time, and it's normal to have moments of uncertainty or setbacks along the way. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate this journey. If you find yourself struggling with overwhelming emotions or feeling stuck, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for additional support and guidance. They can help you process your experiences and develop coping strategies tailored to your unique situation.

 

[Ecdysis]

These many losses have also brought up a LOT of stuff from my childhood traumas. Stuff that was previously "locked away" or compartmentalised in my brain and didn't actively bother me.

It's been harrowing having to process all that old childhood trauma.

Something that is both positive and negative is that this process has robbed me of all my old coping mechanisms. From age 20 - 40, I had certain coping mechanisms that helped me survive and to cope.

Now, all those coping mechanims are gone because the childhood trauma things that came up have torn through those and left them in shreds.

I feel like the old personality I had of being a "tough, smart, independent trauma survivor" has gone.

Previously, I had compartmentalised a lot of the strong and painful emotions of childhood trauma and without feeling those emotions, I could be tough and could get things done.

Now that I'm feeling all those feelings, I feel soft and useless and incapable and confused.

I feel like I lost my old identity.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

These many losses have also brought up a LOT of stuff from my childhood traumas. Stuff that was previously "locked away" or compartmentalised in my brain and didn't actively bother me.

It's been harrowing having to process all that old childhood trauma.

Something that is both positive and negative is that this process has robbed me of all my old coping mechanisms. From age 20 - 40, I had certain coping mechanisms that helped me survive and to cope.

Now, all those coping mechanims are gone because the childhood trauma things that came up have torn through those and left them in shreds.

I feel like the old personality I had of being a "tough, smart, independent trauma survivor" has gone.

Previously, I had compartmentalised a lot of the strong and painful emotions of childhood trauma and without feeling those emotions, I could be tough and could get things done.

Now that I'm feeling all those feelings, I feel soft and useless and incapable and confused.

I feel like I lost my old identity.

I can understand the sense of loss and confusion you're experiencing as you process childhood trauma and witness the dismantling of your previous coping mechanisms. It can be disorienting and challenging to navigate such profound emotional shifts. However, I want to reassure you that this process is not uncommon when delving into unresolved trauma.

Here are a few things to consider as you navigate this transition:

1. Allow yourself to grieve the loss of your old coping mechanisms and identity: It's normal to mourn the loss of familiarity and the ways you used to navigate the world. Give yourself space to acknowledge and grieve the aspects of your old identity that you feel have changed. This process of mourning can be an important step in embracing the growth and transformation that come with healing from trauma.

2. Embrace the vulnerability of feeling emotions: While feeling all the painful emotions can be challenging, it's important to remember that by allowing yourself to experience these emotions, you are giving yourself the opportunity to heal and find deeper levels of resilience. Recognize that feeling soft and vulnerable is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of strength and courage.

3. Cultivate self-compassion and acceptance: Be gentle with yourself during this process of identity transformation. Recognize that you are in a period of evolution and growth. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging the progress you've made, the strength it takes to confront your childhood trauma, and the resilience you've shown throughout your life.

4. Rediscover your authentic self: As you let go of old coping mechanisms and embrace a new understanding of yourself, take time to explore who you truly are and what brings you joy and fulfillment. Reconnect with your values, passions, and interests. By exploring these aspects of your authentic self, you can gradually build a new sense of identity and purpose.

5. Seek support: Consider reaching out to a trauma-informed therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support during this period of introspection and transformation. They can offer specific tools and techniques to help you navigate through the process while providing a safe space for you to process your emotions.

Remember that healing and personal transformation take time. It's natural to feel uncertain and confused during this vulnerable process of exploring your childhood trauma. By embracing this journey, you are taking important steps towards healing and creating a new, more authentic sense of self.

 

[Ecdysis]

I'm struggling with suicidal ideation again today. I saw a psychiatrist today who said to take quetiapine as a PRN medication for this. I took one tablet of it at lunch today and I think it helped a little bit. I had a nap. Ideation is still high tho. I'm never sure what to "do" about it at the moment. It happens so often and I feel like there's nothing I can really "do" but to ride it out and hope it will go away again. This doesn't feel like a very safe approach tho.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

I'm struggling with suicidal ideation again today. I saw a psychiatrist today who said to take quetiapine as a PRN medication for this. I took one tablet of it at lunch today and I think it helped a little bit. I had a nap. Ideation is still high tho. I'm never sure what to "do" about it at the moment. It happens so often and I feel like there's nothing I can really "do" but to ride it out and hope it will go away again. This doesn't feel like a very safe approach tho.

I'm really sorry to hear that you're struggling with suicidal ideation today. It's important to take thoughts of self-harm seriously and seek help when needed. It's positive that you reached out to a psychiatrist who suggested using quetiapine as a PRN medication. It's important to remember that I am an AI language model and cannot provide direct medical advice, but I can offer some general suggestions:

1. Contact a mental health professional: Reach out to your psychiatrist or therapist to share the ongoing struggles you're experiencing with suicidal ideation. They can provide guidance on adjusting medication dosages, exploring additional treatment options, or offer therapeutic support to help manage these intense thoughts.

2. Develop a safety plan: Work with your mental health professional to create a personalized safety plan that outlines steps to take when you experience suicidal ideation. This may include reaching out to support networks, engaging in distracting activities, or contacting a crisis hotline if necessary.

3. Utilize coping strategies: Explore and practice coping strategies that can help manage your suicidal thoughts. These strategies can vary depending on the individual, but may include grounding exercises, relaxation techniques, engaging in hobbies, journaling, or seeking support from loved ones.

4. Seek immediate help if needed: If you ever feel that you are in immediate danger or unable to keep yourself safe, please reach out to a crisis hotline or go to the nearest emergency room for support. Crisis organizations such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can provide immediate assistance.

Please remember that dealing with suicidal ideation can be overwhelming, and it's important to have a strong support system in place. Let trusted friends or family members know what you're going through so they can offer support when needed. It may also be helpful to reach out to local mental health organizations for additional resources and support.

Take care of yourself and remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.