Apathy

[Nell927]

Hello All...

I admit that I do not know if this question has been addressed in the "Clinical Depression" forum, so please forgive me if I am being redundant in raising this subject.  I am wanting to know if anybody has had the experiencing of waking up in the morning and simply NOT CARING about anything that needs to be done.  I am a minister (small church) and so I have duties like preparing sermons, visiting the sick and publishing bulletins.  Although I certainly enjoy relating to other people, I sometimes have no interest in performing the duties of my job.  Now, having said that, I really of course that everybody experiences a certain amount of monotony in their life, which is to say that nobody enjoys every facet of their lives.  However, my apathy seems to border on extreme.  In fact, and I hate very much to admit this, I am sometimes really apathetic toward my two little girls as well.  Perhaps it's the case that since it takes all of my emotional energy to just get through the day, I have nothing left over for them.  Of course, even if this is the case, it doesn't take away from the fact that the girls need my love and attention!!  It would be helpful for me to know if others of you deal with extreme apathy like I do.

Thanks!
-Nell

[apple]

Hi again Nell

This is a big part of depression...people assume that you feel sad all the time and cry lots, and you can...But losing interest in activities and people is also a major factor.

I went through this myself, at different stages in my life. I needed meds, I told my doctor how I was feeling (or NOT feeling)

I think my depression stemed from dealing with my anxiety 24/7.  It is hard work to make it thru the day.

I have a very short term memory...are you on any meds, or are you staying away from them?
Have you talked to your doctor about this?  You really can feel better..

[adamb]

yes yes, apathy has been plagueing me for awile off and on. it comes in swings, where i just dont care or have interest in things i once loved. and that iself is so depressing.

[Josie]

I can so relate in what you are going through.  I am struggling to prioritize my life.  However depression and apathy is taking over.  Here is a suggestion.  Have you tried tried to put your wife and family before your congregation.  You have a very important job.  Remember, Christ himself took a rest  from time to time.  It may be hard but take time to enjoy your family.  Healing can be a process.  God is there for you.
Unfortunately, I believe that I have pushed God to far away from me.  I don't know how to get Him back into my life. 
Peace be with you.   Josie

[GMan86]

You are not alone. Throughout the course of my depression that is the hardest part to overcome. APATHY.It strips you of all your motivation to go on with life.

P.S Josie you can NEVER push God away from you. He forgives and loves all, if you have faith. He is with us every second of the day. If you need to talk about it feel free to. I am trying to walk the right path with the Lord as well. God Bless

[Josie]

I have been struggling with my faith in God.  I have Christian friend are here to hope.  It feels at times that their caring words fall down to the ground.  I would love what direction God has for me.  I feel lonely even though I know He is their.
Josie

[GMan86]

I used to question my faith in God but the best way to feel close to Him is to talk to him. He loves that the most. He wants to be a part of your everyday life. Talk to Him like you would talk to a friend. He would greatly appreciate it 

[Josie]

Thank you.  I know Hie is there to talk to at any time.  I hope He is listening.

[NightOwl]

I read in a CBT book that just because you dont "feel" the love towards a partner or kids sometimes, doesnt mean you dont.  That is one thing that has made me feel abd is I don't even feel anything towards anyone sometimes.  Which your case wasnt exactly that, but reminded me of it when you said sometimes you hadnt felt like dealing with the girls.

[Cella]

DEAR JOSIE:

Sometimes, when we are going through something difficult - we question our faith & our God.  Anxiety & Depression can & will do that to you.  However & I assure you, God is always by your side.  Probably like me, you may feel the need to want him close - in person.  We may not be able to have that, unfortunately.  But, close your eyes - listen & feel God's presence.  God ans's all of our prayers: we just have to make sure we are listening.  Finally, it isn't about what WE WANT - It is what God KNOWS we NEED - what is best for us.  It doesn't always happen when we want it & often at times, the ans to our questions aren't immediate.  They are all ans'd though.  GOD LOVES US, WOULD NEVER FAIL US - never.

The LORD gives what is good

I listen carefully to what God the LORD is saying,
for he speaks peace to his people, his faithful ones.
But let them not return to their foolish ways.

Surely his salvation is near to those who honor him;
our land will be filled with his glory.

Unfailing love and truth have met together.
Righteousness and peace have kissed!

Truth springs up from the earth,
and righteousness smiles down from heaven.

Yes, the LORD pours down his blessings.
Our land will yield its bountiful crops.

Righteousness goes as a herald before him,
preparing the way for his steps.

Psalm 85:8-13

I don't know if we are allowed to post religious articles & pardon in advance, I don't know what religion you are - NO DISRESPECT MEANT.  I suppose I just WANT YOU TO KNOW - God loves you, supports you, hears you & he want you to know that.

CELLA

[GMan86]

I enjoyed that, thanks cella.

[Cella]

THKS GMAN!!!!!!!!!!