Who suffers from Depression

[gandolf69]

I know its a subject many people try to avoid answering and questioning but who suffers from this disease? How effective are doctors, specialists, medications, is Depression more seriuos when the person actually talks about suicide on a frequent basis?

[mindstar]

I have bi-polar

I'm undergoing cognitive behaviourial therapy and have been for over a year. So far not medicated and hopefully will not need to be medicated :)

Get your friend to see a doctor and get a referral to a psychiatrist (not a pscychologist).

My therapist is brilliant. I actually get a lot out of my sessions with him. And at the moment seeing a shrink you do a get a rebate from medicare.

I have no comment really on the meds apart from the fact that I think some doctors give them out too easily. Although I do think that meds can be effective if used in conjunction with therapy.

Does you friend also drink a lot? Take a lot of drugs? Is he/she just attention seeking?
Its really hard to make a blanket statement as to whether or not someone who is talking about killing themselves a lot is depressed or needs help. Most people who are suffering from depression, don't talk about killing themselves. They generally will just act. People who talk about killing themselves are looking for attention... but thats a very large generalisation.

I'd suggest getting your friend to get a referall and talk to a professional.

[Flashfire]

For me its not a matter of suffering from depression but learning to live with and manage depression. And that in itself can be quite a task as depression takes many forms.

Just because someone is depressed short term does not automatically make them a depressive. People can be depressed because of many different reasons, but if it is ongoing and does not seem to be going away of its own accord, then the person may need intervention assistance from a psycologist or psychiatrist. Drug therapy does not need to be long term, in fact its best if it is not but some times medicating does help.


For me personally I have lived with depression all my life, I have at various stages tried all there is to try, from legal drugs such as SSRIs to illegal drugs (which I strongly advise against because it makes it worse in the long run) to alchohol (same advice as illegal drugs) and finally to alternative therapies. Which is what works for me now. But each person has their own way of coping.

Like the person above, exercise, good food, proper sleep and good living habits all contribute to alleviating depression.

Cognitive therapy is great and there are some wonderful cognitive therapists out there. Changing your thought patterns is hard, but rewarding once you get a grip on it.

Talking about suicide is a pretty good indicator that the person needs help, so I would suggest they seek the help that they need. But remember it doesnt matter how much you want to help them, its whether or not they want to be helped. I have buried a few friends who resisted every attempt to help them.

There are many resources available to assist people with depression, help is always available in some form or another. I would advise if the person is drinking or doing illegal drugs to try and stop as they only make the situation worse.

Best of luck.

[Melbourne Lesbian]

I get depressed a lot. I think it's the whole gay lifestyle, the pressure to fit in and what do you do if you don't want to participate in the stereotypical gay culture? For instance, there are a lot of people, myself included, that just want a normal life, with our sexuality being part of it.

Anyhow, back to your friend.

I'm no expert in the suicide arena, but i once advised a friend, who knew someone who constantly threatened suicide, to call the "cat" team. They're located at the Alfred hospital. If he's threatening, it might at least shut him up or scare him into doing something about his condition.

IMO, for what it's worth, exercise, diet, good sleeping habits, a sense of purpose and a liberal dash of hope are what's good for driving depression away.

Apart from that, try telling your friend to lower his expectations cos, let's face it, life is not the bundle of joy we thought it would be. At least that way, he'll never be disappointed and less likely to get depressed.

Alcohol and drugs won't help. That's why i don't like our dominant gay culture.

[gandolf69]

Thank You for your advice which i greatly appreciate , in our conversations he continually talks about how he would take his life and the reason why he feels this must be done. It's based on his age and lack of work , family problems, not being able to afford anything and general increase in life of living. I try to speak to him everyday through the day and night and appears sleepy and tired. Today i said what gives you pleasure and he responded nothing (even sex with guys and said no) He doesnt do drugs or alcohol so theres no concern their but the thought process of his suicide is so detailed it scares the hell out of me. I'll keep CAT TEAM in mind next time.

[Melbourne Lesbian]

Gandolf,

It does sound as though he's depressed, especially the lack of enjoyment. That is typical of depressed people.

The cost of living is definately increasing and i can see his point to a certain extent. It is tough surviving during these times, but it sounds like he has a good friend in you.

I don't think he is bluffing, as he has well thought-out reasons as to why he'd want to kill himself.

Unfortunately, there is so much depression in the gay community, and it seems to remain hidden. I would really like to start a group that focuses on good times, not in clubs, but in real life, doing things that normal people do, for example, seeing movies, supporting each other, going on days out, that sort of thing.

I wonder if there's a support group for gay people with depression?

In the meantime, i would suggest you suggest he sees a doctor, gets onto anti-depressants. It really sounds like he needs them, and then encourage him to do something about his financial situation, such as get a job or find more work. The gay scene focuses on glamour and the 'winners'. It forgets about those who are struggling and finding life a bit more difficult.

Let us know how it goes ;)

Bring him here.

[gandolf69]

I'll try and get him here as he spends all day at home.

[gandolf69]

I've just received the phone call and he's battle for life is over (it happened this early morning and i couldn't do anymore).The signs were there but another life taken so early, he didn't drink or do drugs but was gay and fed up with life and the way the world is going. I appreciate you allowing me to express myself here freely and yes its not a nice subject but it must be discussed.

[Melbourne Lesbian]

Hey babe,

I'm sorry to hear

Yes, another life taken on the gay scene. It's all too common. That's why i try to spread as much joy as possible.

I hope it gets better for you.

[gandolf69]

Melbourne Lesbian i have a sense that this whole suicide/depression matter is becoming so widespread are the governments aware of its increase? Are they deliberately turning a blind eye to these issues? I'm not just talking gay/lesbian people but even straight people (who i know) have had experiences of this nature as well. We hear about cancers, strokes, heart attacks, drug overdoses but this issue remains UNDER THE RADAR AND KEPT IN THE CLOSET. How many people have to take there lives before assertive action takes over and people don't hide and play SMILING FACES.

[Melbourne Lesbian]

I know Gandolf,

It's a massive issue, but one that i think stems way beyond the goverment. It's to do with the world and the amount of greed in it. That's why i could relate to what you said about your friend. I know somebody else who took their own life and i suspect it was for much the same reasons.

You know, it's tough. I've often toyed with the idea of it myself, but to be honest (and this isn't funny, but it sort of is), i don't want to leave a body around for somebody else to find. The serious side is that i've decided to live. As tough as it may sound, the world is in an aweful position and i hope that people realise before it's too late and WAKE UP! But, i decided to stay around so i can try to make it a better place, just by doing my bit.

And, those we know would NOT WANT us to do the same, i can say this almost as a fact. I get a strong sense of that.

But, yes, the Govt. should do something about it in terms of educating people to 'be happy'... They could start programmes in schools. I mean, that's what Beyond Blue is supposed to be about, that's why i love Geoff Kennett, he is a brilliant man.

I'm not sure how much of it the Govt. are aware of. They must see the stats, so yes, it would appear they are turning a blind eye if they do see the stats.

The underlying factor to suicide i think is a lack of happiness. If you are happy, do you want to end your own life? No... That's why i concentrate on honoring myself and trying to be the happiest person i can be, because, hopefully it will rub off on somebody else one day.

I hope everything's okay :) (a smiley seems inappropriate here)...

[anthony_dorman]

Here's a brief run down of my experience with depression and the risks involved with some treatments.

I have been fighting depression for a few years now and have sought treatment under various doctors and specialists. The last time I sought treatment from my GP, I was prescribed a cocktail of meds that kept me in zombie like state 24 hours a days 7 days a week. I couldn't work, drive or even hold coherent conversations, yet my situation continued to deteriorate. I will point out that I was also seeking councelling as well as medication, but I think the meds were so severe that my mind was never clear enough to take anything in.

In the last few months of 2007, the GP decided one part of the medication wasn't working and changed meds for me. I felt more depressed than ever before and for the first time had thoughts of self harm. He quickly changed medication again and for the first week everything seemed ok.

Unfortunately around the time of the 2nd week, what little grip I had left on sanity fell apart and I had a very public meltdown. I had apparently overdosed on all the prescription drugs I had in the house. I have no memory of the day leading up to the event or of the days I was in hopsital. All I remember is waking up in the hospital and not knowing where I was or what had happened. It's been more than half a year since then and those memories are still missing and I'm sure they're gone forever.

Once I got out of hospital I swore off anti-depressant medications and have been trying to deal with this by myself, I've certainly never returned to that GP. It was only later that I found out a known side effect of all the drugs he prescribed individually was suicidal tendancies, let alone in a cocktail together! At no time did he warn me of any side effects and it almost cost me my life.

I still have good days and bad days - thankfully the good outnumber the bad, but it's a constant struggle. The support of my close friends has been invaluable but I've also lost many friendships I valued as they simply had no idea how to deal with me and my illness.

My perspective on many things in life has also changed. Things I used to love and which used to energize my soul, now feel empty and meaningless. I still seek counselling on some of the really bad days but I do believe I am coping much better in general.

I'm not sure of the point I'm trying to make here, perhaps it's to say that meds are not a silver bullet, a magic cure all that will make everything better. Anyone suffering from depression has to find the right balance of meds, councelling and sheer force of will to beat this illness.

[Jamwa]

Hi there :)

CREST is part of EACH which is homebased support for adults with a psychiatric disability, they are very helpful and can provide a lot of assistance and referrals.

Phone: 9879-2557

[mindstar]

Here's a brief run down of my experience with depression and the risks involved with some treatments.

why the hell are you seeing a GP?

get a referral to a psychiatrist
Have a chat to the carlton clinic and get a referall to a gay or gay-friendly psychiatrist

GPs are generalists. Psychiatrists are specialists and the brain really isn't a generalist area...

[oliveoil]

There are some people who suffer with a form of depression that is called Melancholic Depression. Generally, this sort of depression originates from circumstances experienced in life, such as loss. It generally doesn't respond well to medication or counselling.

[anthony_dorman]

why the hell are you seeing a GP?

get a referral to a psychiatrist
Have a chat to the carlton clinic and get a referall to a gay or gay-friendly psychiatrist

GPs are generalists. Psychiatrists are specialists and the brain really isn't a generalist area...

I was seeing both. Initially the GP then in conjunction with the psychiatrist.

[davewb]

I know its a subject many people try to avoid answering and questioning but who suffers from this disease? How effective are doctors, specialists, medications, is Depression more seriuos when the person actually talks about suicide on a frequent basis?
Whilst there are common symptoms, the type, degree of and manifestation of them is different for everybody. Responses to treatment is also different. If one treatment doesn't work, try another.

I'd suggest starting small and working your way up. Why spend $$$$$ on mental health services when a trip to the GP and anti depressants may work well for you,

Remember also there are more 'holistic' approaches these days as well.

Depression is a terrible disease and only those of us who have endured it and are still battling it can fully understand how it completely overtakes your life.

Aside from meds, I found creativity a wonderful way to cope with it. If you have any interest in a creative outlet - give it a go.

[mindstar]

I'd suggest starting small and working your way up. Why spend $$$$$ on mental health services when a trip to the GP and anti depressants may work well for you,

are you joking?

It's this whole sort of attitude that scares me - you are treating the symptoms and not the cause. Oh, I'm feeling a little bit down so I will just pop a few xanax and I'll be right as rain. To be honest after medicare rebates psychiatrists or psychologists really are not that expensive.

[Jamwa]

are you joking?

It's this whole sort of attitude that scares me - you are treating the symptoms and not the cause. Oh, I'm feeling a little bit down so I will just pop a few xanax and I'll be right as rain. To be honest after medicare rebates psychiatrists or psychologists really are not that expensive.
With the cost of living these days even seeing a GP is expensive which is why so many people keep falling through the cracks in the system. Plus suffering depression who really wants to leave the house.....

[davewb]

are you joking?

It's this whole sort of attitude that scares me - you are treating the symptoms and not the cause. Oh, I'm feeling a little bit down so I will just pop a few xanax and I'll be right as rain. To be honest after medicare rebates psychiatrists or psychologists really are not that expensive.
Hhhhhhhhmmmmmmmmm, seems you're becoming the new 'honest' :-(

Each individual who suffers from depression has a unique experience of it. Not everybody has the ability to afford mental health services irrespective of the medicare rebate. Psychiatrists would generally medicate a depressive person anyway. When one has depression it is often very very difficult to get out of bed never mind seek out mental helath services. Going to the local GP first may be easier than arranging an appointment with a mental health profession then waiting a few weeks for that appointment.

I really don't like your smart arse attitude bud.....my view is only one view - not the only or correct view for everybody. FFS is you want everybody to have the same view go and join the taliban.

[anthony_dorman]

anyways you normally need a referral from a GP to get to see a psychiatrist

[davewb]

are you joking?

It's this whole sort of attitude that scares me - you are treating the symptoms and not the cause. Oh, I'm feeling a little bit down so I will just pop a few xanax and I'll be right as rain. To be honest after medicare rebates psychiatrists or psychologists really are not that expensive.

Another view - in the depths of depression it is difficult to treat the causes of depression. Medications aren't perfect, but they can put you in a place where one does have the ability to address the causes.

Have you suffered from depression or are a mental health professional????

[davewb]

With the cost of living these days even seeing a GP is expensive which is why so many people keep falling through the cracks in the system. Plus suffering depression who really wants to leave the house.....
A voice of reason!

[davewb]

anyways you normally need a referral from a GP to get to see a psychiatrist
Good point :-)

[mindstar]

Hhhhhhhhmmmmmmmmm, seems you're becoming the new 'honest' :-(

I'm not on these forums enough to understand or even care about the reference

Each individual who suffers from depression has a unique experience of it. Not everybody has the ability to afford mental health services irrespective of the medicare rebate. Psychiatrists would generally medicate a depressive person anyway. When one has depression it is often very very difficult to get out of bed never mind seek out mental helath services. Going to the local GP first may be easier than arranging an appointment with a mental health profession then waiting a few weeks for that appointment.

There are also psychiatrists that bulk-bill - we managed to get a friends brother into one of them because he couldn't afford to pay for a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

I really don't like your smart arse attitude bud.....my view is only one view - not the only or correct view for everybody. FFS is you want everybody to have the same view go and join the taliban.

you're a little defensive. I personally think its dangerous that people (especially someone who admits to working in healthcare) advocate visits to GPs for anti-depressants. Yes I suffer depression, yes I see a psychiatrist and I'm not medicated and its probably not likely that I will start on medication anytime soon. I am not saying that just because I am not on medication, that this is the route for everyone. All I am saying is that I don't think people should be going to a GP for a prescription of anti-depressants. See the people who actually know what they are doing.

And in terms of the cost factor. How much is your health worth? Could you give up something like say smoking or alcohol to afford it? If its important enough to people they will find a way to afford it.

With the cost of living these days even seeing a GP is expensive which is why so many people keep falling through the cracks in the system. Plus suffering depression who really wants to leave the house.....

again there are GPs that bulkbill. Ultimately it does come down to whether the person wants or has the ability to help themselves.

[Jamwa]

I really think that this thread should be closed, it has turned into a bitch fight when someone was seeking some advice.....

[mindstar]

I really think that this thread should be closed, it has turned into a bitch fight when someone was seeking some advice.....

because I disagree with someone's viewpoint that becomes a bitchfight?

wow

over-reaction much? There was nothing personal in any of my responses to davewb - he has his viewpoint which I disagree with. Seems perfectly normal & reasonable to me.

[davewb]

I'm not on these forums enough to understand or even care about the reference



There are also psychiatrists that bulk-bill - we managed to get a friends brother into one of them because he couldn't afford to pay for a psychiatrist or a psychologist.



you're a little defensive. I personally think its dangerous that people (especially someone who admits to working in healthcare) advocate visits to GPs for anti-depressants. Yes I suffer depression, yes I see a psychiatrist and I'm not medicated and its probably not likely that I will start on medication anytime soon. I am not saying that just because I am not on medication, that this is the route for everyone. All I am saying is that I don't think people should be going to a GP for a prescription of anti-depressants. See the people who actually know what they are doing.

And in terms of the cost factor. How much is your health worth? Could you give up something like say smoking or alcohol to afford it? If its important enough to people they will find a way to afford it.



again there are GPs that bulkbill. Ultimately it does come down to whether the person wants or has the ability to help themselves.
If you read my original response to this thread, I said that there are many options available and one should seek out the best option for them. Use the internet to research the experience of others.

When one is in the depths of depression, doing what you suggested might be too overwhelming. By 'starting small', one can do little baby steps in their recovery from depression. If CBT works for you - great. But it's not going to work for everybody.

GP's are normally the first point of contact for all health issues and the good ones will explain your various options to you.

I suggest you read a book by Rebekah Deboe (spelling is wrong - can't be bothered looking it up LOL). It's a Aussie biography about a women's plight with depression and how various treatments (including drugs) stuffed her up even more.

We are all individuals and respond differently to treatments. I was annoyed at your responses which seemed to advocate that only your treatment is the best one. It's important for people to be aware of all treatments out there, including anti depressants. The meds don't suddenly maky you 'happy' but over time they CAN (not necessarily WILL) put in a place where you can work on the causes of depression.

[davewb]

I really think that this thread should be closed, it has turned into a bitch fight when someone was seeking some advice.....
But we are giving advice :-) Even though samesame has their forum rules, I'm not a fan of censorship. Depression and it treatment is controversial at the best of times so it's going to inspire strong debate.

[Jamwa]

I think it has gone past the point of advice and into an ego trip between a certain few people in here, what concerns me is that people suffering from this horrible illness are turning on eachother instead of providing much needed support.
I expect people with no knowledge of this illness to act in such a way but c'mon guys we're all sufferers and survivors who could use a shoulder to lean on instead of a comment to bring us down.

[BonkersLuvvyBonkers]

Just wanted to say I have been nodding to many of the views posted.

My take? Ok; so I take "additional" meds to anti-d's to keep my little brain in shape. i accept that I have to do that at this stage. I've heard that for some people, as you get older and more settled, the needs for meds can decrease. However I have also been told by more than one treating professional (pschs, GP's, talking therapists) that I need meds for good.

However I do know this much; if I am deeply depressed (usually the post-psychotic variety) it feels like wearing shit-coloured filters over my eyes while trying to walk through emotional quicksand. It's pretty 'orrible. Getting out of bed is a win. Making it is a cause for celebration. You get the idea.

I agree with DaveWB that creativity is such a super outlet for depressive types, be it drawing, music, handicraft, writing. I choose to write for now, that's my outlet.

And just between you and me, my best therapy that I have gained is through what I write. And remembering to lug myself out for a walk here and there. And doing the dishes- don't laugh, it's very therapeautic! Keep the mind where the hands are...like meditating. Only I get satisfied knowing the house is clean! I don't mean to make light of a serious topic, as this really is. Just saying there is hope. :)

[davewb]

Just wanted to say I have been nodding to many of the views posted.

My take? Ok; so I take "additional" meds to anti-d's to keep my little brain in shape. i accept that I have to do that at this stage. I've heard that for some people, as you get older and more settled, the needs for meds can decrease. However I have also been told by more than one treating professional (pschs, GP's, talking therapists) that I need meds for good.

However I do know this much; if I am deeply depressed (usually the post-psychotic variety) it feels like wearing shit-coloured filters over my eyes while trying to walk through emotional quicksand. It's pretty 'orrible. Getting out of bed is a win. Making it is a cause for celebration. You get the idea.

I agree with DaveWB that creativity is such a super outlet for depressive types, be it drawing, music, handicraft, writing. I choose to write for now, that's my outlet.

And just between you and me, my best therapy that I have gained is through what I write. And remembering to lug myself out for a walk here and there. And doing the dishes- don't laugh, it's very therapeautic! Keep the mind where the hands are...like meditating. Only I get satisfied knowing the house is clean! I don't mean to make light of a serious topic, as this really is. Just saying there is hope. :)
Continue with the writing then - write a novel! Creativity allows one to become 'absorbed' in the task at hand and therefore forget about one's own issues for a while. Photography literally saved my life!

As for meds.....they are quite controversial. They work for some, but don't work for others. They are a valid option to at least try if one chooses to do so.

[BonkersLuvvyBonkers]

Thanks Dave....I actually self-published a tome I wrote last year and gave it to some loved ones as a gift. Cost a bit to do, but got good feedback. Was thinking of venturing into photography at a later stage.....have to get a camera first!!! My idea is to get some software that will let me do my own "Coffee table books"; ie- words and pix. I'm thinking Black & White at the moment, but that could change. Would appreciate any tips you could give me on photos - you seem to have it sewn up!!! Good for you, cheers. BLB xx

[davewb]

Thanks Dave....I actually self-published a tome I wrote last year and gave it to some loved ones as a gift. Cost a bit to do, but got good feedback. Was thinking of venturing into photography at a later stage.....have to get a camera first!!! My idea is to get some software that will let me do my own "Coffee table books"; ie- words and pix. I'm thinking Black & White at the moment, but that could change. Would appreciate any tips you could give me on photos - you seem to have it sewn up!!! Good for you, cheers. BLB xx
your most welcome BLB! Great to hear about your self published book. The coffee table book sounds like a fab idea...got a theme????

Photography is a great past time/ hobby / profession. Anything you want to know - just ask! I love black and white :-)

One thing though - be sure get some editing imaging software. Photoshop is great, but costs $$$$. I use Corel Paint Shop Pro - does everything the former does and cost under $200. So much creativity at one's tips with such software :-)

Wonderful to hear such a positive story BLB - I'm proud of you :-)

[gandolf69]

I didn't come here to inspire bitterness and arguments guys, despite all the help my friend got it never helped and was buried yesterday, i'm told he was flung pillar to the post by all the organizations and as a result the life was taken without alcohol and drugs , the way he took his life was violent and now the damage is setting in to others. Thank You for all your input.

[davewb]

I didn't come here to inspire bitterness and arguments guys, despite all the help my friend got it never helped and was buried yesterday, i'm told he was flung pillar to the post by all the organizations and as a result the life was taken without alcohol and drugs , the way he took his life was violent and now the damage is setting in to others. Thank You for all your input.
So sad to hear that your friend took his life :-( Mental health services in this country are seriously in need of attention. And no, you didn't inspire arguments or bitterness, it's what happens on internet forums sometimes when people disagree.

My thoughts are with you....

[rudeboy86]

I suffer from bouts of depression from time to time. A lot of it comes from the fact that I live at home and my folks seem not to pay any interest to the fact that I am gay...more for the reason that they are convinced that I am otherwise...they are in denial...still.

I get upset by the fact that Melbourne has such a shit Alternative Queer scene and that the Leather and Bear crowd are generally alienated to a degree on the scene...but then again that is a matter of people's attitudes.

The other thing that gets me would have to be the fact that the man I'm in love with is holding off the idea of a relationship till he gets things sorted out with himself so he has time for himself and me. I am waiting out on him and I cant think about anybody else I'd want to be with so it is frustrating at times.

[Lynxgrrrl]

Hey All
Interesting discussion. I suffer with Bipolar and although I'm more manic than depressed, I still have days......
I just wanted to put forward that for some people anti depressants can be a death sentance. Thus the importance of seeing a mental health professional. A GP may not be able to get a correct diagnosis and treat just the depression, (which seems to be prevailent ) a dangerous error. Lets face it, 15%-20% of bipolar suffers commit suicide. That's way too high for my liking considering that this number is from diagnosed cases and not the ones that suffer alone. I know the game of being wrongly diagnosed. For over 15 years I've had Gp's either send me on for talk therapy with psychologists (who just agreed with me and patted me on the back and said I'd be fine)or wanted me on anti depressants. I had refused medication for every cell in my body said NO! I didn't see it as a solution.
Now I'm 40 and have been diagnosed correctly (3 weeks ago)after an attempt at my own life. So now I'm medicated cos I realised "I'm not coping." I was lucky to have a friend who got me to a GP that was able to see thru my bravado and got me to a psychiatrist that said "Yes you have a biological illness." For all of you that are thinking you can go it alone or are just scared of being labelled mentally ill, give yourself a chance of living not just surviving. No baby steps, no 12 steps to recovery.....get in that car and drive. Yeah it's bumpy, yeah it's tough, yeah it's not fair but I haven't met a single human being that doesn't have some reason to think that.
If you actively look for positives (bloody hard I know) you will find them. And if you cant, you shouldn't be on your own.
JUST BE
Lynx.xxxx
PS CAT (crisis assessment team)teams are at most major hospitals. They are brilliant. They let you know there's a safety net.

[gandolf69]

Why would anyone want to live in this world with all the hatred, current cost of living, people not wanting to communicate to oneanother, people not being able to afford food, people just surviving but not living, honestly who wants to live in this world? I pity the generation coming up who may find it hard to drink water (dams drying up) Surely heaven or hell cant be as bad as life, don't people have the right to decide how and when they die? If the person sees no future and is constantly struggling in life with work, family disputes, pain, and generally sick of life why cant they decide instead of waiting 80/90yo to die?

[gandolf69]

According to research which i found out on the net around 2000 people suicide here in Australia per year, the rate has increased the last 5 years but the biggest and surprising stat is women suicides are down but men's are up. I don't have the age group breakdown but i'm told by some professionals that teen years, mid age and 80's are when depression/suicide are at there most active times. The research indicates lack of job security, marriage problems, lack of friends, isolation, worrying about the future as main reasons. They also name car smashes as the number one way people suicide followed by jumping out of hotel balconies and throwing themselves at trains. Has anyone else seen or confirm these facts?

[gandolf69]

If we cant live in peace lets die in peace (of our own accord)

[cahill]

I know its a subject many people try to avoid answering and questioning but who suffers from this disease? How effective are doctors, specialists, medications, is Depression more seriuos when the person actually talks about suicide on a frequent basis?

I completely agree with the fact that suicide in no way is the answer to your depression. Though there are difficult times in everyone's life, but suicide is not the way to put an end to those tough times. Rather the person should try and find out the way to get over it. Taking to family, friends about the problem can be best solution. Along with that, consulting a physician also helps. There are a lot of medicines which help in getting over depression.
Though during my depression period, I have never thought of suicide only because of my family support and the medicine which I use (Xanax). This medicine helps in relieving depression by slowing down the nervous system. This medicine is habit forming and should only be used in accordance with the instruction of a physician as sometimes withdrawal symptoms are even more depressing. So if you think you are having some problem, get to the root of it, talk about it and take medical help rather than going for something stupid. GOD bless
http://www.xanax-effects.com

[BonkersLuvvyBonkers]

Christ I've just looked at your posts from October....you were screaming for help!

If anyone and I mean ANYONE needs to communicate their suffering the way Gandolf did then the shit has hit the fan. Christ I get mad at online inadequacy...not for other onliners to solve someone's problems...actually sometimes the advice here is very good and based on sound experience...moreso that the 3-D people in our lives might never be aware of what we spill out here.

If you are in Melbourne and have thoughts of killing yourself ring;

Suicide Prevention Line 1300 651 251.

Sometimes the answers we seek come way too late for our needs. Don't hang around and wait for an online reply. Ring either the above number, or;

Your Local Public Hospital (eg: in Melbourne - The Alfred, Western General, Northern, Box Hill etc) and ask the operator for Psych Triage. They will put you onto a duty nurse and you need to as calmly as possible explain your situation. If they assess you as a genuinine "need" (subjective but true) they will ask for your number and ring you as soon as they can (this can sometimes take a couple of hours).

If all else fails and you have no friends or family to ring, get a copy of the white pages business and look up the front for 24 hour help lines. Do not give up. You are worth saving. That is why these numbers are staffed and they exist.

[celestetydens]

Hey there,

I have suffered depression for about 7 years now. i have been through many many stages of it, and its something that is ridiculously hard to know how to deal with. i think that everyone's experience with it is different too, but of course suicidal thoughts are not exactly a good thing, which i've had plenty of, but im still here.

over time i have figured out what makes it less severe, ie distracting myself by watching tv, or trying to almost always be around people or doing something. i used to have a psychiatrist who put me on anti depresants 4 years ago, and they do help. it takes a while to get used to, but they do help. i now see a psychologist as well after a rough period.

if u r willing to do something about it, and are seeking help like you are here, there is great hope for you. it may not seem like it, but that is quite admirable and something to be proud of.

i also wanna share a quote with you that has always been at the back of my mind through many years of depression; "being challenged in life is inevitable, but being defeated is optional."

best wishes,
celeste.

[honest]

A close friend of mine is suffering from depression. It's a terrible thing watching someone spiral like that and at the same time being beaten to death by the very people who use the word "community" claiming to support each other.

[Ash Rehn]

As a gay man who is also a counsellor and therapist working with other gay men, lesbians, trans folk and same sex attracted people in Sydney, my experience is there are a lot of people working in this area who are concerned and committed to making a difference and helping others.

I encourage people to find their own names for what they are experiencing because I believe there are answers to be found in the uniqueness of every person's life, hopes, values and beliefs. This is not to take away from descriptions like 'depression' but the names we give to things can bring about all kinds of assumptions and meanings.

Some people have told me they find great comfort in thoughts of ending their life and, perhaps ironically, having this option is what keeps them going through the difficult times. Thoughts are not the same as actions. And of course, they are not always comforting and may be disturbing or precede actions.

What kinds of responses might be influential for someone who is considering giving up?
How can we be available to our friends, concerned for their well-being and respectful of the uniqueness of their lives?
How can we help our friends to find a greater sense of personal agency- the ability to have influence or control over their own lives- without imposing our own ideas or ways of seeing things?