Depression and anxiety are issues most of us deal with, especially as we age. I've had my struggles, too! But this has been really strange. I'm not sure when I've ever experienced an illness that so many people deny even exists. It's a very odd place to be.
Even now, years after Covid first entered our lives, people will think I have Covid when I mention Long Covid. They don't know what Long Covid is, even if they do believe in Covid itself.
And the world has moved on. Folks have been celebrating their freedom from masks and social distancing, but all of us experiencing Post Covid/Long Covid/Long Hauler's - whatever you want to call it - have been left in Covid land.
The biggest thing that has helped me with my depression has been the support/therapy group that I was referred to by the UW Long Covid Clinic. Meeting with 11 other patients who have the same symptoms as me is such a relief. Finally! People who really understand how crippling it is, and the struggle to move forward.
A big part of the group has been about learning all we can about the disease (at least, what they know so far), and learning to ACCEPT what our lives are now. It'll get better, but I may never be the person I was before. And that's ok. It could always be worse!!
And medication. That's helped as well :)
If you are feeling depressed, please call your doctor and find a mental health professional. If you're feeling suicidal, please call 988 - the Lifeline Support network, or visit https://988lifeline.org/