Depression

I appreciate you sharing so openly with us. Contending with COPD and depression is something many in our community can identify with. I'm confident they will join the conversation but in the meantime here are a few articles we have on coping with them: https://copd.net/living/depression, https://copd.net/living/what-to-do-depression, https://copd.net/coping-mental-health-copd. If you would like I can also private message you some additional resources. All the best, Sam S. (COPD.net, team member).

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What you are feeling is pretty standard for COPD sufferers. All of us get days like that. When I feel like that, I have two choices. I can either lay around and feel sorry for myself, or I can do something about it to make myself feel better. I choose to do something about it to make myself feel better. I recently got over a cold (over Thanksgiving unfortunately) and I felt bad daily for a week. What I did was continue my exercise routine (even though I really didn't want to), continue my breathing exercises, and keep a positive attitude. I got rid of the cold in 5 days and feel much better now. One has to change their mindset to change how they feel. It works for me. Something you can do is reach out for your medical team and reach out to friends and family for moral support. There is also this website, where support waits for you daily. Take care and God Bless!

Hey Joan, how are you doing? I have also been sick for a week -- not sure if it was COVID or something I picked up from my goddaughter. I think your experience of depression, while uncomfortable, is so normal! Not just for people with COPD either. It's hard to cope with a sudden loss of function, whatever the reason. You are not alone. A positive attitude is helpful but sometimes we need to give a little nudge to help it along. Do you like to read? Is there a good movie you can watch or a loved one you can call? You don't have to go through it alone. I hope you get well soon! -Melissa, copd.net team