I’ve reached a very low point - in fact, recently it got so bad that I felt suicidal. Now I’m getting help and am on medication, but I still feel terrible. The fact that nothing seems to make me feel better just makes everything worse - I feel guilty for just sitting around all day, not working. I love my children and grandchildren, but other than that I feel all alone. Please help!

Susan advises
The first thing you need to know here is that medication takes time to kick in, so you shouldn’t feel hopeless because you don’t feel better immediately.

The second thing you need to know is that medication doesn’t always do the whole job. Its fine to get extra professional help, and maybe your GP could suggest a local counselor. The organisation Depression Alliance will help here.

Other parts of your life may need to change too. You feel alone - I wonder if that is because you aren’t working and so aren’t seeing anyone but your family. If so, and you’re not ready to go back to work, then I’d advise you to do something lighter and less challenging. Could you help out occasionally in a charity shop... do some dog-walking... take a painting course; anything to get you out of the house, feeling productive and meeting people.

The final thing you need to know is that there’s no need to feel guilty. Depression is a genuine illness, not all in the mind - and the fact that you were suicidal means that you were seriously ill. You wouldn’t feel guilty if you took time off work after breaking your back - depression is the psychological equivalent, so don’t give yourself grief over it!