Posted by shar on October 15, 2000, at 22:54:17
In reply to Re: Guilt about depression - feedback please » ksvt, posted by Ted on October 15, 2000, at 20:47:42
K-
I think in our society there is a huge focus on being productive, the Puritan work ethic, accomplish big things, earn your age, etc. And in a depressed state, when you are moving thru molasses, it just goes against all of that. So, I think we flog ourselves for laziness or I should do more, or I should be able to just quit feeling this way, etc.And other people flog us for that too, even if they are somewhat subtle. (hah) So, if I were to leave work early, or take a medical leave, or not get out of my pj's till 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, etc. that is antithetical to the "we should be busy and productive and happy" way of thinking.
I always get pissed when someone says I'm feeling sorry for myself (I got that lots as a depressed teen). Damn straight! I'm in pain and I hate it. I am motivated to get out of pain. If there was proven method, I'd jump on it. So, if I don't feel sorry for myself, who will?
Oh, and if you are female, esp. not young, (I'm 48), and you have weight gain on meds--there's another 57 "rules" you are going against. Supposed to be attractive, size 8, no gray hair, and a great big ol' smile. Yessiree!
Now I'm pissed. I always get pissed when I think of this, and it's actually very energizing.
Thou art not alone.
Shar
poster:shar
thread:1090
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20001011/msgs/1107.html