This is my second time eating the keto way. I stoped the first time because I was not eating enough vegetables. I spent a few nights in the hospital with cloged bowls. So I went off the diet. Up to that point I had lost 20 lbs. now back on it and have already lost 20lbs and things are going well. However I’m depressed most of the time. I know some life changes May be part of the problem. Wife passed away 10 years ago kids have moved out, empty nest this past June, and the amount of hours I work. I’ve started meditation and CBD oil. Not sure if the oil does much but it tast good. I exercise 30-45 min a day. Mix of cardio and strength. So what I’m I missing? Any help would be nice.
Depression
Skoobaroo
(Dana)
#2
I’m sorry that you’re feeling this way. Are you involved in any social clubs or groups? Are you religious or spiritual at all? Do you have any family other than your kids that you can visit with or call up on the phone? Have you mentioned the way you’ve been feeling to your health practitioner, and have you considered something like counseling?
Congratulations on your weight loss so far. I hope that you are uplifted by your progress and that it helps you to feel even a little bit better. Hang in there.
juice
(Running from stupidity)
#3
Depression sucks. Unfortunately, there’s no way to fix it that works for all. I found Keto helps mine (mostly) but that’s not much use to you.
Are you seeing a relevant medical professional about it?
PetaMarie
(squirrel-kissing paper tamer)
#4
I have depression and I have worked with animals most of my life as a vet tech, wildlife rehabber, etc. I find that having something to nurture and care for (even a sad plant from Lowe’s) helps give me purpose and that helps with my depression. Best wishes on your path.
grinch734
#5
Loneliness and exhaustion contribute to depression. I’d try to fix those before taking anti-depressants. Easier said than done. Joining some kind of club or talking to a psychologist can be a big help. Online dating can be fun if you’re up for it. If you don’t have alcoholic tendencies, I find a few drinks reduce stress and anxiety at the end of the day. Maybe a beach vacation too.
Indy64
(Paul)
#6
Thanks Dana
Yes I do attend church and have a few people to talk to. For the most part it’s the everyday stuff. Eating most meals alone, not have anyone to just talk to about the small stuff. You would think that a man does not miss it but I do. I’m trying to get out there and start dating but where do you start and go? Most of the church functions I go to have the same people. I’m thinking about trying on line dating again. Tried it once and, WOW, some of those people is not what I was looking for. I was told to stick with it. Because they do work. My faith does and has got me through a lot.
Indy64
(Paul)
#7
Thanks. I feel bad because I have a dog and she is a good dog. But I’m getting tiered of taking card if her. I want some TLC and I’m tiered of always giving and not receiving. 15 years of that and I feel emotionally drained. However I did buy some indoor plants a frew months back and I do enjoy looking at them.
PatNotFat
#9
Some tips and tricks:
Sunshine - try to get some sunlight (early) in the morning.
Smile - there’s apparently some sort of mechanism that improves mood when we smile, even if it’s a ‘false’ smile.
Laugh - watch comedy on the tv or go to a local amateur comedy event.
“5 Good Things” - every evening make a simple list of 5 good things that happened during the day. Write them in a small book and keep it special for this celebration of your life.
MrMartyJones
#10
Hey Paul, I don’t know if you’ve ever heard of Celebrate Recovery but it’s a Christian-based recovery program for those dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, etc. They really are some of the best, most humble, generous, kind, thoughtful people in the world. I’d highly recommend it as a way to supplement your exercise, diet, and other self-improvement efforts. You can search for a nearby group using this page.
MrMartyJones
#11
Some good ideas. I like the “5 Good Things” idea as a great way to help foster an “attitude of gratitude”. This really helped me when I was going through some situational depression in my past.
Sunshine and exercise are also awesome. Lots of science that says exercise can be just as effective or even more effective than pharmaceutical options for a lot of people. (Not that there’s anything wrong with using them if necessary.) Sunshine does something good for your soul too. I think the lack of sunshine is one of the reasons that places like Alaska (almost completely dark for long stretches though the year) have the highest suicide rates.
daniellealberta
(Danielle)
#12
I’m sorry to hear you’re feeling this way. I hope you feel like you’re getting support from this group.
There have already been some great suggestions here. I definitely recommend speaking to your doctor about how you’re feeling. That doesn’t necessarily have to lead to a prescription, but often doctors have a large referral network to draw upon, and may be able to give you suggestions for local groups and support networks.
Also, let your kids know how you’re feeling. Not with intention of making them feel bad or guilty, but perhaps they have some suggestions for you as well, and they can definitely be a source of support. Call them (or use video calling) during dinner a couple of times per week and chat about your day.
Sunshine and fresh air help me a good deal. You also mentioned your dog. Is there perhaps a local walking/hiking/dog walking group you could join?
Also, how about volunteering? Do you have a particular hobby, skill, or interest that would transfer well to a volunteer position?
Life changes are hard. Significant life changes are stressful. But the fact that you came on this forum and acknowledged that you are struggling shows great strength and a willingness to improve your situation. I wish you all the best!