Question:
I'm wondering if these are symptoms of depression? Mainly being tired
of the modern urban rat race. I don't like to go out, to the store, gas
station, work, traffic (especially rush hour). Not because of fear
of people, but not wanting to deal with the general public. It as if
the general public are stupid. They write checks for 4 bucks, and
don't have proper ID, while you wait for them in the checkout line.
Even going to the grocery store is a major pain. It's the apparent
lack of common courtesy on the part of the public. Example; people
no longer 'step lively' when they are walking in front of your car in
a parking lot. Generally, they just amble along as if you don't exist.
Answer:
I'm wondering if these are symptoms of depression. Mainly being tired
of the modern urban rat race. I don't like to go out, to the store, gas
station, work, traffic (especially rush hour). Not because of fear
of people, but not wanting to deal with the general public. It as if
the general public are stupid. They write checks for 4 bucks, and
don't have proper ID, while you wait for them in the checkout line.
Even going to the grocery store is a major pain. It's the apparent
lack of common courtesy on the part of the public. Example; people
no longer 'step lively' when they are walking in front of your car in
a parking lot. Generally, they just amble along as if you don't exist.
In traffic jams, other drivers seem to be real jerks, They are very
rude and cut in front of you, if there is space for them to fit into. I know
this sounds like whining, and maybe it is. I'm just trying to determine if
I'm depressed. I'm fighting weight gain, and lack of interest in sex.
Demographic info: 47yo male, married 20yrs, no kids. no financial
probs. veteran, live in upper midwest. I hope this is enough info to give
someone that knows about depression enough info to put me on the right track. It is difficult to tell. I suffer from depression, but am also a Mental
Health Clinician. You might do well in another kind of environment!!!
If you like quick fixes, however, try an anti-depressant! Unfortunately, we are not psychiatrists or psycholgists who can determine if
you are depressive or not.
If you want someone who knows enough about depression to lead you on the right
track, we have that here.
Yes, some of what you described COULD be signs of depression but I would think
that YOU know you better than anyone and if you are questioning tht something
doesn't feel right in you, then you really already answered yourself.
The only way to find out for sure is to go start somewhere, with a psychitrist,
a psychologist or even start at your regular primary physician. Hey I just visited this great site- Itcontains links, a great quiz to see if
you are really depressed or in a mood thing, and other really great stuff- I am
certain it can help you .. It is at www.depression.com I consider your description as daily living or therapy. I am 35 year old
Bipolar Poster Child.
The things you describe are the fears and living situations I have to
relearn after a manic episode. Being a veteran I suggest you use the VA
system. I am also a veteran, and a lot of the things you describe come from
working in a world full of average people after being one of the best. Sorry
if that sounds conceited but I was always taught military service was an
honor. If you use the VA look for a good therapist, one willing to help you
look for solutions, not push paper.
If you have questions about VA health care services.
http://www.va.gov
Personally I think you are becomming self aware of yourself in the world in
which we live. What you do now is your choice. I get through the situations
you describe by just doing them and suffering the feelings. Sometimes I stay
home. It sounds to me like you might just be bored. Take up some new
enterprise. Study a new language, take up a new sport, take
your wife to someplace tropical (you'd be amazed how what
*that* will do for your sex drive). Have some *fun*, for
crying out loud. Be an adventurer. Oh, by the way, if your are depressed, the above will help with
that, too; especially regular excercise and the trip tropicale. I t wouldn't be possible to tell from these symtoms - you seem to be
stressed and irritable and these can be symptoms of depression - of life
losing its sparkle. You'd have to delve a bit deeper and see if you have the
other symptoms of depression. Can you go to a bookstore and get a self-help
book on depression - preferably one with a self-assessment questionaire ?
Also, if there is no obvious reason for your weight gain and loss of libido
then you might have some medical or hormonal problem which is causing
symptoms of stress or depression. However, appetite changes, either loss of
appetite or overeating, and loss of libido are both symptoms of depression.
If you feel lack of motivation, lack of interest in hobbies or work, don't
want to get up in the mornings, feeling that life has no purpose, tiredness,
lethargy, constant sadness, guilt, low confidence and self esteem - then
these are all symptoms of depression.
Please give more details, or consult a self-help book, or seek medical
advice.
However, that is not to say you need to go to a doctor or anything.
Your symptoms are fairly mild and there is a good chance you can pull
out of it yourself. Step One on that that plan is seeing there is
something wrong, you have done that already.
Others have given more detailed suggestions so I won't, but just add
that the proper attitude towards the stupid is not irritation, but pity.
Give it a try. If you can pull out of it yourself, just move on and
enjoy your new life. You'll enjoy it more, knowing the alternative.
If you can't pull out without help, get help. I don't know your
options on your side of the Atlantic, but someone suggested the VA.
Sounds reasonable to me, they should know all there is to know about
depression.
