taking a break from life/people?
 

I went and saw my Doc today, and he thought it would be a good idea to put me on anti-depressants (Lovan) to get me through this patch.

But the thing is, I've managed to really stuff things up with a few of my close friends. My ex (who has been like my soul mate), well I got angry at him because he's going out with another girl after a week since we broke up. And I've really hurt him. I feel like I can't be around him anymore because all I do is hurt him, and "cage" him. I hate myself for it. When I'm with him, I hurt him, and when I just need me time, he thinks I don't care. gah its confusing.
And two other girls who i thought were my friends have dropped me. That's another story.

Anyway, what I'm wondering is, with depressive times in your life, is it ok to withdraw from other people, and just focus on yourself until you are better? And in doing so is it possible to repatch friendships that may have suffered because of the depression? I feel real bad for hurting these people, but it's part because I just can't cope with life.

Sorry this is so long, but I could really do with any advice anyone has.

Do what you think is the best for you. If you feel that withdrawing from your friends would help, then do so. you might want to explain to them the reason why, so that it doesn't start fights later.
As for your ex.... erm.... I don't think you actually hurt him that much if he's already going out with someone else. Just let it go, it seems he's a source of very conflicting emotions for you, which can't be good.

hi holly
as has been said already, if u think withdrawing from ppl will help you, then its probly not a bad idea, but remember that that can also make u feel lonely etc and might not help the depression.
i know u siad u hurt ur ex, but it sounds like hes hurt u pretty badly too so try not to beat urslef up over it.
pm me if u want to talk
take care
*hugs*

you should do what you think is best for you but as sunshine said withdrawing yourself from people probably wont help your depression.
it is possible to repatch your fiendships however youll have to tell them whats going on.
take care
x x x

Well I think that sometimes it is better to withdraw but also be able to reach out to certain people who won't let you down or hurt your feelings. Last winter i was very ill and about ready to quit everything. I quit my job, quit college and spent 2 months just coming to terms with the depression and starting to heal and get help. My family were my rock. The people I could trust, and of course my best friend, but apart from that I kept anyone else to a minimum in my life and it only did me good. I got a new perspective on things, knew who really cared about me and didn't have any unnecessary stresses. Then when the depression started to ease off and I had enough strength to start little things again I could let people back in bit by bit and its awkward but you just have to focus on YOU. Not what anyone else thinks about you. Your feelings are most important and just remember too that anything you have said or done to upset anyone recently isn't entirely your fault! You're struggling atm and things sometimes come out wrong. Doesn't make you a bad person and if your friends love and care about you they will realise that in time. So take care of yourself. Surround yourself by non-stressful people and things. Look after yourself and keep fighting.

PM me if you need k?
xx

I think that if it's going to help you, it's perfectly reasonable to take some time for yourself. It's all about being self-regulating. I know that when I've having a rough go of it, I find it really helpful to put a bit of distance between myself and others.

Fortunately, my closest friends know about this, and actually do the same thing, so they're pretty understanding. Perhaps consider talking to your friends about this or writing an email and explaining why you're going to be a little withdrawn. As someone else already suggested, this would help with any confusion they might have about what's going on, and may help them not to worry as much.

What really matters is you and what you need right now. If you need some space and time to look after yourself, heal a bit and sort things out, go for it. Please take care of yourself, and let us know if there is anything we can do to be supportive or helpful. ^_^ (((good vibes)))