re: Have you ever reached rock bottom?

Just about everyone has had a rock bottom period in their lives. I did not give up out of love for those who loved me.

First thing to remember is that alcohol is a depressive. Drinking just acerbates depression.

My story...I was in my mid 20's (the worst decade for many). Working a very stressful job and putting in very long hours. My engagement ended, and I broke up with a long time lover. I was too thin, malnourished, and manic depressive...a walking mess.

I quit my job and moved home to my parents. One night, I had an outer body experience. Felt like I was really dying; floating above my body. It was a wake up call. I had NEVER contemplated suicide, but I was not taking care of myself.

I had a complete physical exam. I gained weight, ate nutritious foods and ran for exercise. Entered an old program of therapy called RBT (Rational Behavior Therapy). If you google it, the program sounds too technical, but it basically helps the patient to change thinking.

When you can change your thoughts, you can better control your emotions. You train your mind to shut off irrational, destructive thoughts. This was the late 70's and I never took any meds.

In RBT, the patient does not spend unproductive time going over all the wrongs in one's life. RBT may not work for everyone. With depression, sometimes, you just need to stop thinking "too much". Meditation and prayer help too. There is power in prayer.

I have had some real life challenges since that time in my life but I have never experienced depression since. There are truly better days ahead.