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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How can I overcome this depression I've had since childhood?

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    Depression Mental Health
    I have been depressed since childhood, finding the world a scary and unfriendly place. I cannot remember the last time I was happy and have no passion for anything. People scare me and make me uncomfortable and I feel like i have nothing to offer anyone anyway. I amtoo miserable so I avoid others so I dont bring them down. I have anxiety and panic attacks. I have tried antidepressants, counselling. I make terrible choices and feel like I should not be here because I am useless. Even when things are ok Icannot be happy or just feel neutral. Intellectually i know being healthy meditating and staying out of trouble will help but I have a complete lack of motivation to do anything that will help myself. Is there anything I can do to drag myself out of this cycle of insanity before I really do hurt myself

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    • Alison Tennant
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    Alison Tennant

    Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist

    I have worked as a Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist since 1986, arriving in Australia from South Africa in 2008. I have worked with a wide … View Profile

    I am sorry to hear that you have been struggling for so long and that the treatment you have sought has not really helped you. However, do not give up hope. Sometimes people need to try a few different types of antidepressants before finding the one that works for them and similarly, one may have to try a new therapist if counselling has not helped. Since you have been depressed and anxious since childhood, there is a possibility that you may have suffered from some early trauma that you may not even be aware of. If this is the case, medication alone will not help and you will need in depth psychotherapy to get to the root of your problems. Psychotherapy can help you to understand what is happening to you and help you to learn new ways to manage your symptoms so that you feel more in control of your life. In depth psychotherapy cannot be rushed and it can be expensive. It is a process that could take one or more years to really make a difference but it could be the most important investment you ever make. Good luck.

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