Depressed and overweight
QUESTION:
Lola (25)I am probably clinically depressed. I think about suicide a whole lot, and my life is terribly unbearable. I am extremely over-weight and unattractive. I recently graduated from college, and I still do not have the skills or energy to get a job. I'm very sad every day. I feel stuck in my life and I want to escape it, or pretend I'm not living. I don't have money, and I am very wary about medications anyway. I used to work with people who were bipolar, or manic and they experienced extreme frustration with their medications. I don't want to be dependent on medication.
Are there any other options to deal with depression besides expensive doctor visits and medications?
ANSWER:
Kenneth A. Weene, Ph.D.
First, there are some good books on overcoming depression. Second, many people find St. John's Wort, which is available at health food stores, to be useful.
However, I'd really suggest that you get interpersonal help as well. Both EA (Emotions Anonymous) and OA (Overeaters Anonymous) are widely available and extremely helpful. Based on a 12 step self-help model they are easily afforded. Finally, try contacting your local psychological association or the psychology department of a local university to see if low cost help is available.
Kenneth A. Weene, Ph.D.
This question was answered by Kenneth A. Weene. Ken Weene is a graduate of The Institute For Advance Psychological Studies at Adelphi University is a licensed psychologist practicing on Long Island, New York. His orientation is holistic and eclectic. In addition to a variety of contributions to the professional literature, Dr. Weene has published a number of poems. Before entering private practice, he directed Children, Adolescent, and Family Services for The Counseling Service of The Long Island Council of Churches. Ken's central belief is that life is a gift to be experienced, enjoyed, and celebrated. He knows that this is sometimes difficult in the face of physical, emotional, and other forms of distress and sees his goal as helping people to find their inner peace and joy in the face of stress and anguish.