Advice from fellow sufferers sought...

by Geoff P
(Warwickshire (UK))

I don't want to come across as if I think I'm the only person with this problem, or that I'm suffering worse than anyone else. But I am a little reluctant to accept the diagnosis I have been given. That I am Clinically Depressed. It just seems too "off the peg" for my liking.

What I mean by that is that no one has really looked me in the eyes, or done any kind of real examination, tests, or questionnaires. I just feel that I have been pigeon holed all too quickly. My GP just scribbled the local IAPTS number on a scrap of paper for me to call, and sort out myself, another tick box checked, and sent on my way.

It's more than likely, that the old familiar story of "it's me that doesn't get it" applies.

I would love as much feedback as possible on this one:

Is depression really as bad as this, or have I possibly been misdiagnosed?

Are the following symptoms typical? :

Whole view of the world, and the feeling that comes with it has drastically changed. A feeling of almost complete disassociation, and a disconnectedness with everything around me.

A complete sense of doom and gloom. That there is definitely no future!

Complete loss of interest/passion for even the things I used to truly adore!

Severe general anxiety (I've read a lot about G.A.D. But no diagnoses, or even mention of that has been made by any Medical Professional) - I have developed a very irrational, and acute anxiety of sleeping in the place I used to feel safe - my own home! Worsened even more now since the death of my dog. And knowing I will have to be completely alone. I have NEVER had any kind of a problem like this at all, previously.

I am completely unable to do the job that I have done naturally, and with zest for 35 years! The pressure of knowing that I am financially sinking fast, and unable to remedy that by working, is also making things much worse!

Concentration, memory, and confidence is COMPLETELY shot!

The list could go on, but suffice to say, that these problems are extremely severe, and have completely screwed up my life!!! Utterly! Is this really Clinical Depression, or am I three quarters of the way to becoming a nut job? It feels like it!

Please give feedback... and be gentle :)