[Elerine]

Tomorrow I'm going to the doctor, to find out if I have depression. Who knows, it may be a bad mood that's lasted for two months, but you never know.

I'm terribly afraid to find out, actually. What if I do have it? I don't want that label. I would be so embarrassed. It's silly I know, but I've always been the 'in control' one, the stable one, but being depressed would throw that right out the window.

Nevertheless, I'm going, because I'm sick of this affecting my relationships (with bf and friends), affecting my grades, affecting everything around me. I'm either sad and empty, or anxious, or so very irrationally angry. I've become teary, when I've never previously been. I am always tired, my hair is falling out more than ever before, and I have -zero- motivation to do anything. It is such an effort to do anything, from getting out of bed, to actually getting out the door.

I've had enough, so has my long-suffering bf (who I love dearly), so I'm going. But I'm scared of what I'll find.

[bargoo]

Good luck on your doctor visit and congratulations on making this important step to improve your life.

[AuntieMameNJ]

Good luck.

Also - you might want to ask for a blood test for thyroid. Some of your symptoms could be explained if you're hypothyroid.

[shelby897]

I understand your fears -- but wouldn't you rather find out what's wrong than to constantly suffer from it? Once you have a diagnosis, then you can deal with it, treat and feel great again. That's more important than any label!! Besides -- it's not like if they do diagnosis you with depression they make you tattoo it on your forehead -- only people you know and love have to know.

Good luck.

[Elerine]

Well, I have depression. but it's ok. The doc was really cool about it, I am so grateful that she was understanding. She didn't make me uncomfortable or embarrassed at all. There is help on the way for me, so I'm glad about that.

Thanks everyone for your responses.

[Leenie]

Good luck on your visit today I know its not an easy thing to do, but I have no doubt that when you walk out of that doctors office your gonna feel like the weight of the world has been lifted off your shoulders.

No one can "label" you but you.... so don't feel that others will... okay
Main thing is that you get healthy and happy again... besides, nobody has to know the outcome

Let us know how you do.


Leenie

[x Victoria x]

Good luck! Try not to focus on a "label" ... try to focus on getting healthier with treatment. It has saved my life.

.. the more people I tell about my depression and since treatment, the more people I find who either had been treated in the past or ask me how they can seek treatment.

My own mother (pillar of strength that she is) asked me the other day about how to approach her doctor regarding depression.

Dont worry about what others think ... You are doing this for you and you my dear, are worth it!