I am out of deep-deep depression. I get involved in the things that interest me. If some things make me feel down I stay there in prayer and rest until I am up again. Don't rush. Move forward only when you feel like it you will know, (don't force it). Find yourself a good psych dr (Perhaps free clinic) and follow instructions. Before you know it you may be eligible for social services assistance. Less stress will make you a better volunteer. (If you have military background, this is even better, (see DAV Disabled American Veterans, VFW,PAV etc) They may even place you on a job and help you get financial assistance (pension or compension). I'm just pulling straws out of my hat. By all means thank those who have helped (blessed) you.

Hear PeeWee, the brother took the words from my mouth. As you know how it feels to be a hospital patient, volunteering to make life more easy to others has it own rewards, or animal shelters where there are so many that need a friendly clap on their heads.

Georg

PS. as for depression...whack it with a baseball-bat.

By all means, try some volunteer work, Bro. Volunteering with vets and pets really changed my life. You can volunteer at your hospital, at a nearby veterans hospital, and, of course, at an animal shelter - they all really need the help.

With volunteering, walking, riding your bike, and planting that flower and vegetable garden - you won't have much time left to be depressed.

Marvelous idea. You have much to offer and everybody needs connections in their lives that only comes from taking some initiative. Not to mention perspective. Patrick

Hi Ed:

I think it's a good idea to volunteer in the hospital if you have the time to spare. You can gain a lot of experience in there too.

Sandie Angel :o)

P.S. Thanks so much for your review on my poem about men! :o)

glad your body is feeling better ... by all means, volunteer as well as express your thanks ... no doubt, it will make your soul feel better and may perhaps lead to a lasting position ...

Do it. If the hospital idea doesn't work out try a different cause that interests you until you find one that fits.

sound like a good idea, it won't hurt to ask, ther are many places that could probobly use a hand and staying busy is one of the best cures for depression

I think that is a great idea, Ed. You have a great sense of humor and a philosophy about life that you can share. It would not hurt to try, right? Love, peace, and best wishes to you,

Regis

Volunteering is always a great idea. May I suggest, an animal shelter? They really need help.

you could substitute "he" for 'she' in my poem 'I Know Her Well'



My advice would be... when 'he' takes over...come back and fight him with a vengance...look for the keys that invite him in...or simply continue to tolerate this most familiar friend.....



patrick granfors had some interesting advice...someting like a trip to the beach...maybe he'll read this and offer the same wise advice for you...hey! whatever works

meanwhile...getting out of yourself and giving to others is powerful medicine

I do a lot of volunteering Ed and believe me it does a lot for your heart. Just to know you are making a difference, if it's reading to a person or chatting with them. My Mom use to tell me volunteering was a wonderful way of knowing how better off we are then others. They are so understaff and overworked that they welcome you with open arms. As George said it makes us forget about our little problems. Make sure you send out that thank you note, they will really appreciate knowing someone noticed.

Newfie Hugs, Rose

I volunteered time to the cardiac floor after spending almost 8 days there for heart problems. By all means write a thank you letter to those angels who look after you, they get so little thanks and they appreciate it when they do. It also takes your mind off your problems,
while being able to empathize with others. Hope they have a job opening for you.

George

...whatever ever you do, keep moving and forward is a good direction. Love and Warmth to you. Carin' Spirit (one with experience in Depression)