Question: Can someone develop depression from finding out they have a degenerative eye disease? is that even possible?

(Posted by: Talon on 2009-12-10 20:45:52)

I was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa nearly 4 yrs. ago. It seems to me that I've been in a huge funk. I was probably depressed before but finding this out is almost like a dark cloud has sort of settled over me or some weird negative feeling hiding behind me. It's like I can't seem to focus or remember things like a use to. I'm only 28 so my memory is pretty good. Also, it's not like I'm crying constantly or have suicide thoughts I just feel really unhappy. I try to do things that make me happy but it seems like nothing makes me happy. Could I be depressed? Do you think i should talk to a doctor?

Posted by: Missy on 2009-12-10, 20:53:06

Many things can make you depressed, diseases, death of someone close to you, stress of everyday life, childhood problems, and many more things. If your feeling this way you should talk to a doctor. Take the word of someone who has been down that road before, and has known many other people that have been. You may need to get on medication or talk to a therapist, but things will get better and you'll be able to be happy again. I promise.

Posted by: Nah Z on 2009-12-10, 21:02:35

Yes, you are absolutely depressed, and you really do need to talk to your doctor about it. You also need to find out more about -living well- with RP! Contact your state's vocational rehab and begin gunning for training and services even if you aren't legally blind yet. Get in touch with the NFB ( nfb.org/ nfb/ Default.asp ) and use their resources! They have local groups, national and state conventions, training centers, and so many other great resources. Learning that you WILL be able to live with and have a happy life despite RP is going to be very important in overcoming your depression: but you need to take the first steps. Work with your doctors to deal with your depression. Get educated: about braille, mobility skills, and independent living skills. Get connected: other positive blind people living successful lives WILL help you understand that you can, too.

Posted by: Drewkulele on 2009-12-10, 21:08:31

YES, you are depressed, and YES, you should speak to a doctor, so go get yourself some help right away!! And, by the way, my ex-wife was diagnosed with RP as a teen, and she's now in her early-60s and still has ALL of her sight, so it's NOT a "death-sentence, " you may not lose any sight at all!! Good luck!...