sunday69

Thank you! I did manage to make it to a support meeting for dual diagnosis folks yesterday and we talked about the 12 steps. However...

It's day 18 and I feel like I'm in hell: constantly alternating between depression and anxiety, crying spells, exhaustion and obsessive, dark thoughts. Sometimes I wish my partner would leave me so she could be done with the pain of trying to live with me. But I really don't think I could survive one day without her. I've been working this whole time, but I mostly hide out in my office. I could take a week off, but I don't know what I'd do (other than go to meetings all day, which would probably make me depressed)....Is this PAWS? Or is it just the "normal" adjustment period? Of course, I've always had the depression and anxiety issues - just never, ever this bad.

My counselor keeps saying that things will get better and that I need to focus on my recovery. But when we meet we don't talk about much. I'm thinking about getting a new therapist. My psychiatrist acts like my depression is no big deal. Help!

EDHARLEY

Sunday was the worst, but mostly they have been up. The anxiety subsides a little (or at least it did for me).. Stay on the site it has helped me.. good luck.

Dee74

I think if you've always had depression and anxiety issues it makes sense to me to look at that first.

If you're not happy with your counsellor then maybe you need to decide whether you need to vote with your feet?

What else are you doing for your recovery though?

D

Hevyn

Yes, sunday - you'll go through many different phases. I was still numb & foggy for awhile, but one day I realized things were looking really good. I was clearheaded and focused - and not sorry for myself anymore. There's no specific timetable, but don't be frustrated with yourself - it will happen.

Congratulations on your 15 days - you're doing it!

sunday69

Thank you Hevyn and Dee.

Dee, I'm not sure what else I should be doing for my recovery (other than going to meetings). I'm completely open to all suggestions.

Dee74

I wasn't being accusatory

I just think that support is important - especially if we feel a little lost and frustrated with our progress

There's a lot of alternatives besides AA, if thats not your thing
here's some of the main players
http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...formation.html

AVRT also seems to be pretty popular here nowadays - there's a couple of threads on that specifically in our secular forum

http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...r-connections/

D

sunday69

Dee, I didn't take offense - I just think I'm desperate for advice!

Thank you very much for the suggestions and for your continuing support!

sunday69

I made it to an early morning meeting today!

The anxiety was tough, but the meeting was good. I'm going to check out DRA.