My smile hid symptoms of depression associated with COPD
I knew my troubling mental health symptoms, but I didn't acknowledge them
In observing Mental Health Awareness Month in May, I’d like to offer some insights into some symptoms we may overlook. Depression and anxiety, for example, are common for those of us with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) — as I learned through personal experience.
In my case, I had major depressive disorder, and I believe my smile and sunny personality hid my symptoms from my healthcare team. I discussed some issues with my family doctor, who was also my late husband’s doctor for over 30 years, but when he retired, that stopped.
He and I had been pursuing the cause of my fatigue. Blood work showed that I had iron deficiency anemia, and he’d asked me if I thought I might also be depressed, since he knew that both my husband and I were dealing with multiple health issues. If I weren’t so tired, I told him, I wouldn’t be depressed. His retirement closed this pursuit.
The development of my symptoms
I remember hearing people talk about being clinically depressed and that it was difficult to get out of bed and get dressed every morning. In retrospect, I realize that I shared this habit. My first intervention for this problem was taking a managerial position at a large retailer so that I was forced to get up and get dressed each day.
My second intervention was speaking with a psychologist, who said I was emotionally fatigued, but not clinically depressed. I stayed with this provider for about a year and then decided that I wasn’t getting the help I needed, so I quit.
I ignored my lack of motivation to make jewelry, crochet, and sew. I didn’t have time to do these activities because I had to move more slowly because of my COPD. By the time I sought professional help, I was sleeping far too much and getting little accomplished.
I tried melatonin, ashwagandha, L-tryptophan, and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to help me fall asleep. Whatever I tried seemed to help for only a few days. Being unable to sleep worsened my fatigue, and I skipped brushing my teeth or washing my face before bedtime.
Help evaded me until one night I decided that it’d be a blessing if I died in my sleep. The next morning, I made an appointment with a psychiatrist, who diagnosed me with major depressive disorder. I knew the symptoms of depression, but I hadn’t acknowledged that I was having them.
I learned an important lesson: that it’s important to reach out for help. And if help is evasive, try repeatedly until you find the right provider.
Note: COPD News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of COPD News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
About the Author
David A Sylvester
Thanks for your honesty Caroline. Your story will help people
Eva
Thank you for your honesty with your struggles and at times temporary victories in your endeavours.
I too have COPD, diagnosed some 20 yrs ago. I have 2 inhalers which I take daily. However, I have also spent tons of time researching, just like you, and have incorporated many additional holistic approaches which seem to have aided me quite well. apart from supplementing with NAC, Mullein and Boswellia 5-LOX inhibitor, I use a device called Airofit, for lung exercises daily. I also use an OPEP device that helps loosen up mucus in the lungs. I have also incorporated red light/near infrared light therapy as well, and to top it up a vibration plate. My FEV1 may be pretty bad at 45%, but I breathe well!
K G DEMAREST
thank you for your wonderful articles
Diane
Caroline Gainer, Thank you so much for opening up. So much of what you wrote felt like you were writing about me! And I needed to hear this. Someone once told me that Denial, is my middle name. I will be seeking out mental help, soon. Cause I sure don't want to continue on the road I'm on now. Thank you.