Depression in Thailand. From diagnosis to cure.

[startracker]

I've gone through a number of bouts of depression over the past 20 years, but have never gone to get it diagnosed or treated. I just kept going and most of the time it got better.

 

I'm currently going through a bad patch that kind of came out of the blue, there have been times lately where the only thing stopping me from deciding to.... end things, are my 2 sons that need me.

 

It's time to organize getting it treated.

 

I'm mainly in Silom area of Bangkok 90% of the time, and around 10% of the time in Phuket.

 

TIA for any information on I presume the first part - diagnosis. 

[cornishcarlos]

That's not good pal... But on the positive, you realise what's going on and also have a great reason (your kids) to move in the right direction. 

I would obviously suggest trying to find a recommendation for a psychiatrist that is local to you and make a start. 

Also, give Colinneil a shout, as he has been through it before. He is very approachable and supportive of folk in the situation you find yourself.

I wish you the best and have no doubt you will pull through once more..

[nikmar]

Hi again,

with depression, drink is only going to worsen things. As you mentioned in another thread, you tend to drink and its only going to put you in a downward spiral. 

Stop the drink and you may start feeling more positive about yourself and life in general. 

As i said before, good luck.

 

PM me if you need a sympathetic ear. 

[freedomnow]

I'm no expert on your specific situation but 5htp (a herb)  can maybe help right now as that can boost serotonin which regulates mood....

.....combined with talk therapy in BKK with a qualified professional.

 

Again seek professional medical/psychiatric help, as not all your factors are known.

 

 

 

[lovelomsak]

I assume you are asking where to get it diagnosised and treated. 

  I cannot say for sure where but if in BKK try Bumrangrad. If they cannot help I am sure they can refer you.

  If you are going in and out of depression that  is the worst. Never know when you will feel low not matter how good you feel at the moment. Always the fear of depression returning.

   You could also do searchs on clinics in BKK that deal with depression.

 

 Sorry I cannot be of more help. God be with you and good luck.

 

[BritManToo]

3 hours ago, startracker said:

I'm currently going through a bad patch that kind of came out of the blue, there have been times lately where the only thing stopping me from deciding to.... end things, are my 2 sons that need me.

Me too, drunk and depressed. Can't see any point in living any more (which isn't the same as thinking of killing myself).

Being sober just allows me more time to think about being unhappy, so I get up and do 2-3 hours of something strenuous outside followed by lunch and 4 hours drinking gives me 7 hours of a depression-free day. Add to that 2 hours of reading or watching TV, 2 hours of shopping and food prep, collecting the kid from school, and 9 hours sleeping, makes for a decent day.

(That probably sounds crazy but it works for me)

 

Try to get out more during the day.

Edited September 18, 2018 by BritManToo

[Lacessit]

Bear in mind alcohol is a depressant. Also bear in mind depression is an illness, and as such carries no stigma with informed people.

Depression comes in various forms. You need expert medical help to diagnose and medicate the condition correctly.

[NCC1701A]

I suffer from depression and now that I am retired I tell people here in Thailand right up front that I have to be careful who I associate with and I can only drink soda water.

 

You might have to accept that you are different from other people and may never be able to participate in some of what other people do, like getting married, or having a huge responsibilities placed upon you.      

 

if you are depressed you must give up all alcohol 100%. if you have a real drinking problem you need to get that fixed first. I know it is not easy for some people. What ever you do, stay out of bars with negative people who will drag you down. Unfortunately so many people in Thailand socialize in bars but you just have to give it up.     

 

then adjust your diet and exercise a lot. pay attention to what you eat and how it affects your mood. cut out all sugar. If you are mobile get a hobby like taking care of an elephant or join a group activity like Hash House Harriers or Trash Heroes. Walk around the mall. Yoga, meditation. 

 

For me, riding my motorcycle in Thailand makes me feel great because my brain gets dopamine because it is so dangerous. I know, its weird. 

 

Make short term plans, like traveling to another city so you have something to look forward to. 

 

if there is something in your life that is really bothering you, if you can, fix it. or get rid of that person. Sorry but you need to do what you need to do.  

 

Stay away from people who think depression is a "mood" and you just need to snap out of it.

 

good luck.

 

From Bumrungrad Hospital:

"Depression can be prevented by adhering to the following:

• A Healthy Diet – Eating a healthy, balanced diet consisting of the 5 food groups consumed in moderation will help with preventing depression; nutrient deficiencies such as a shortage of omega, vitamins E, C and D, iron, and copper can increase the risk of developing depression.
• Exercise – People are advised to exercise at least 4 times per week for 30–40 minutes per day. Exercise may be light, like a brisk walk.
• Rest – Getting a sufficient amount of sleep is essential to wake up feeling refreshed throughout the following day.
• Mindfulness – Studies have found that practicing mindfulness techniques can increase mental wellbeing and reduce stress levels.
• Optimism – Try to view the world in a positive light, as this will give the much-needed mental strength needed to succeed through periods of great stress and discomfort."

https://www.bumrungrad.com/en/depression-behavioral-health-center-bangkok-thailand/conditions

 

 

   

[startracker]

Thank you for the replies. 

[Sheryl]

I recommend going to PSI and seeing a psychologist there. Ben Weinstein is especially good.

 

If the therapist thinks medication is indicated s/he will refer you to a psychiatrist for the prescription (it is possible to buy antidepressents OTC but not advisable - there are different meds and takes some knowledge to select the best one for a particular patient)).

 

The combination of therapy and meds usually works better than either one alone

 

http://www.psiadmin.com/

http://www.benweinstein.com/contact.htm

[colinneil]

     Startracker i hope you have a good wife/girlfriend to help you.

Go see a shrink, if you get a good 1 it will certainly help.

When i was in hospital, after being told i would never walk again i got seriously depressed, doctors got a shrink to come and see me.

I was in bed 1 afternoon and a nice looking lady came to my bed asked if she could speak with me, after over an hour she said she had to go, thank you for taking time to chat with me i said, no problem, i am your shrink, she said, what the hell, she said if i told you, you would not have spoken openly with me.

She then visited me twice a week after that, it certainly helped me.

Also my wife was supportive, pushing me, a good friend was also there daily, helping me.

Now i did not use any medication, only help/ support.

If i can be of any help to you mate pm me, if i can help you i will.

[startracker]

Thanks, 

[dotpoom]

"TIA for any information on I presume the first part - diagnosis. "

You appear to have made the diagnosis yourself already ...now what to do about it?

 I read in one of the earlier posts that you may have turned to alcohol....Let me tell you here and now...."That is one certain way to make your problem worse"...alcohol is a depressant. ...I know, I'm an recovered alcoholic. Sobriety for me is similar to being on a "high" every day.

  I still get depressed at time, comes in cycles (about every 6 weeks I get a "downer"  that lasts about 4.days).

  But I know that is not the same as "clinical depression"....mine is not in the same league....You have to make yourself ...seek help...and I pray for you and your family that you can get yourself to do that (I know it can be difficult just to want to get out of bed...nevermind looking for help).

  One of the "tricks" I learned for myself is to force myself to go out for a walk ...it's almost miraculous how that can effect my thoughts.

  I'll finish on this...when I was drinking I would be known to lock myself in the bedroom for 5 to 6 weeks at a time , with the curtains pulled over, blocking all light from coming into the room..scared beyond belief ..I once heard it described as "Unknown fears". My wife was the only person I would allow into the room.

   Again,..I once heard a man say......"There is nothing worse than being trapped in a body with a mind that has turned against you".

God Bless you my friend ..

   You are not alone.

Edited September 19, 2018 by dotpoom

[action]

I have dealt with depression for most of my life.  It runs in my family.  It is a chemical imbalance in the brain that can be treated with meds.  It's not an emotion or mood. 

I have tried several different medications but the one that works best for me is Pristiq.  Most that I tried were SSRI's which either made me sleep all day or made me very jittery.  Pristiq is an SNRI which blocks different serotonin in the brain. 

It's not cheap but when I've tried reducing my dose or going without it I feel the symptoms come back.  I'll probably take it for the rest of my life and am thankful and happy about that fact.

 

I am no professional so talk to a doctor before doing anything else.  

[Alainpm]

I experienced that state of depression. Idid Yoga. Not the fashion, superficial or commercial yoga. I can give a few advice. I'll be back to Thailand in october. I'll be for a few days in bkk and Phuket.

Self esteem is key. And some specific exercices. Otherwise, being active is important, as well as physical activity (walk, smooth sports, regular schedules)... 

Depression is when we don't appreciate ourselves any more. The  key is not self suggestion like "i'm good, i'm strong",  but by accepting oneself like we are.  

procrastinate is deadly. Doing something for others is good.  It's all about the relation between the inner self, the ego and the mental. An emotion is the  print of the mental on the body. Letting the mental  go astray is deadly, It has to be disciplined.  Too much mental activity like too much reading, too much watching TV help forget  the present moment, but it makes the mental be over developped and it creates parasite thoughts that   perturbate  your good thoughts and prevents you to transform them into action. So our actions are frozen and we lose trust in ourselves. And it makes us live in the past or in the future. The key is to be focused on the present moment. Some others prefer psych help or medication.  I don't. Up to them.. 

"Make oneself Great Again"

 

 

Edited September 19, 2018 by Alainpm

[kingstonkid]

I have and am still being treated.  you are in a great spot at Silom.  I can personally recommend Dr Thani at BNH as a psychiatrist the issue you may have is finding a Psychologist to assist you there are not that many.  Dr Thani can point and recommend the right places.  I am presently at PSI with Ben.

 

All the best Again as has been stated bars and short time are not the answer.

 

 

 

 

Keep in mind that there is no pill to solve the problem and there is no quick fix.  It took us all a long time to get screwed up and it will take a while to unscrew it.art of the answer is not the whole thing the thing you need is a professional counselor.  Psychiatrist talk to you and recommend meds.  It is the counsellor that will sit down and find out where and what the issues are.

[jak2002003]

I am not sure about the alcohol ban and prayer to god to bless people are going to help with depression.   I get the feeling that some people will fit in their anti alcohol and religious agenda to any health or life problem for their own personal reasons.  

 

A drinking problem is not the same as problem with depression.  I do agree If the OP is drinking too much then cutting down is going to help.  If the OP has become addicted to alcohol, then again he needs to get help for that as well as the depression.  

 

However, having a drink a few times a week.. to the point of not getting too drunk and having hangovers is probably going to help with the depression.

 

Getting out and socialising, having fun with other people, and relaxing will go a long way to help reduce the depression.

 

The worst thing a person with depression can do is withdraw and spend most of their time alone... that makes it worse.

 

OP.. my advise is once you have a diagnosis and some medical help (with or without anti depressant medication) you might find the following helpful...

 

1.  Get outside every day.. several times a day... do anything.. gardening, shopping, go to the cinema, restaurants etc.

2.  Get exercise... just simple walking or riding a bike is enough.  Do at least an hour a day.

3.  Socialise with friends, family, go out and meet new people

4.  Don't get drunk!!!

5.  Eat reasonably healthy food (no need to go on a crazy diet).

6.  Take up some hobbies, eg fishing, sports, gym, traveling... anything to get you out of the house and be with other people.  

 

Note.  I personally found out cutting back of caffeine (in soda drinks, coffee etc) really helps.

 

I have suffered bouts of depression similar to OP throughout my life.  

 

In the bad days many years ago I attempted to take my life several times and ended up hospitalised, but now I am much improved and without medication for many years.

 

Its hard work... you have to force yourself to get active and things... and that requires a lot of effort.  But once you get through that barrier you will start to feel better.. and each time you need to motivate yourself you can remember the positive effect had on you last time (hope that makes some sense).  

 

 

[Kadilo]

2 minutes ago, jak2002003 said:

I am not sure about the alcohol ban and prayer to god to bless people are going to help with depression.   I get the feeling that some people will fit in their anti alcohol and religious agenda to any health or life problem for their own personal reasons.  

 

A drinking problem is not the same as problem with depression.  I do agree If the OP is drinking too much then cutting down is going to help.  If the OP has become addicted to alcohol, then again he needs to get help for that as well as the depression.  

 

However, having a drink a few times a week.. to the point of not getting too drunk and having hangovers is probably going to help with the depression.

 

Getting out and socialising, having fun with other people, and relaxing will go a long way to help reduce the depression.

 

The worst thing a person with depression can do is withdraw and spend most of their time alone... that makes it worse.

 

OP.. my advise is once you have a diagnosis and some medical help (with or without anti depressant medication) you might find the following helpful...

 

1.  Get outside every day.. several times a day... do anything.. gardening, shopping, go to the cinema, restaurants etc.

2.  Get exercise... just simple walking or riding a bike is enough.  Do at least an hour a day.

3.  Socialise with friends, family, go out and meet new people

4.  Don't get drunk!!!

5.  Eat reasonably healthy food (no need to go on a crazy diet).

6.  Take up some hobbies, eg fishing, sports, gym, traveling... anything to get you out of the house and be with other people.  

 

Note.  I personally found out cutting back of caffeine (in soda drinks, coffee etc) really helps.

 

I have suffered bouts of depression similar to OP throughout my life.  

 

In the bad days many years ago I attempted to take my life several times and ended up hospitalised, but now I am much improved and without medication for many years.

 

Its hard work... you have to force yourself to get active and things... and that requires a lot of effort.  But once you get through that barrier you will start to feel better.. and each time you need to motivate yourself you can remember the positive effect had on you last time (hope that makes some sense).  

 

 

Excellent post. 

Interesting you say that drinking a few times a week may help but you cut back on caffeine. I’m not questioning the merits btw just interested why you thought that way. It clearly worked for you so well done. 

[kingstonkid]

3 minutes ago, jak2002003 said:

I am not sure about the alcohol ban and prayer to god to bless people are going to help with depression.   I get the feeling that some people will fit in their anti alcohol and religious agenda to any health or life problem for their own personal reasons.  

 

A drinking problem is not the same as problem with depression.  I do agree If the OP is drinking too much then cutting down is going to help.  If the OP has become addicted to alcohol, then again he needs to get help for that as well as the depression.  

 

However, having a drink a few times a week.. to the point of not getting too drunk and having hangovers is probably going to help with the depression.

 

Getting out and socialising, having fun with other people, and relaxing will go a long way to help reduce the depression.

 

The worst thing a person with depression can do is withdraw and spend most of their time alone... that makes it worse.

 

OP.. my advise is once you have a diagnosis and some medical help (with or without anti depressant medication) you might find the following helpful...

 

1.  Get outside every day.. several times a day... do anything.. gardening, shopping, go to the cinema, restaurants etc.

2.  Get exercise... just simple walking or riding a bike is enough.  Do at least an hour a day.

3.  Socialise with friends, family, go out and meet new people

4.  Don't get drunk!!!

5.  Eat reasonably healthy food (no need to go on a crazy diet).

6.  Take up some hobbies, eg fishing, sports, gym, traveling... anything to get you out of the house and be with other people.  

 

Note.  I personally found out cutting back of caffeine (in soda drinks, coffee etc) really helps.

 

I have suffered bouts of depression similar to OP throughout my life.  

 

In the bad days many years ago I attempted to take my life several times and ended up hospitalised, but now I am much improved and without medication for many years.

 

Its hard work... you have to force yourself to get active and things... and that requires a lot of effort.  But once you get through that barrier you will start to feel better.. and each time you need to motivate yourself you can remember the positive effect had on you last time (hope that makes some sense).  

 

 

You are correct But am I safe in assuming that you did not do this on your own.  These are great ideas but you also have to deal with the "issue"  and having someone that can walk you through and help guide you is not a bad thing in the beginning

 

[Blue bruce]

i have been going episodes of depression for years. Here in Thailand i have  had very  good results with Dr. Suttiporn Janenwasin at Bumrungrad hospital. Sheryl recommended her to me about 6 months ago and I see her 1 once a month.

[Laza 45]

22 hours ago, nikmar said:

Hi again,

with depression, drink is only going to worsen things. As you mentioned in another thread, you tend to drink and its only going to put you in a downward spiral. 

Stop the drink and you may start feeling more positive about yourself and life in general. 

As i said before, good luck.

 

PM me if you need a sympathetic ear. 

Good advice.. & support... EXERCISE..  get out of your routine and get some exercise if you don't already.  Get the endorphins pumping.  Join a gym.. ride a bike.. walk or jog if you can.. Both my daughter and I have been there and getting regular exercise and good diet definitely help.. medication is the last option in my books.. it may help for awhile but eventually you have to get off it.. but it can help if things are really bad..  Good luck and keep talking to friends and those who offer help.. Good luck  .. remember your love for your kids.. 

 

[3421abc]

Oxitine take it for a few months, I went to bkk Christian Hospi and they gave me that. Works well and I didn't get down while on it.

 

[malibukid]

exercise, walk, gym, yoga, find a hobby.  hang out with positive people. travel if you can, get involved with volunteer work,  get a cat.

Edited September 19, 2018 by malibukid

[jak2002003]

1 hour ago, Kadilo said:

Excellent post. 

Interesting you say that drinking a few times a week may help but you cut back on caffeine. I’m not questioning the merits btw just interested why you thought that way. It clearly worked for you so well done. 

Thanks... I think different things help different people and their particular situation. 

 

I found too much / strong caffeine would make me very 'nervous' and anxious and make my mind start racing thinking about things that got me upset and made me feel very on edge and emotionally unstable... also just generally unwell 'highly strung' and stomach aches (as I was having a coffee or coke rather than eat).    Sorry hard to explain.  As I was getting some panic attacks sometimes I thought this was sure not helping!!!  

 

I only even had 2 or 3 shots of whisky.. when I was out socialising (perhaps 3 - 4 times a week).  Each shot was with a big bottle of soda water and lots of ice. 

 

People thought it strange as sometimes a glass was almost all soda water.. but still tasted OK to me... and I could have the 3 shots over the evening,  with no worry of getting a hangover or getting drunk and emotional.  It was nice to have a social drink with friends a few times a week.  Gave me something to look forward to on a set day.  Being in a group and laughing and joking and not thinking about serious things was a great help to relax and rest me.  I can't say enough how just getting outside and mixing with other human beings really helps.  That was very difficult to get myself to do... as I am not a very social person anyway, and the depression made me want to hide away on my own.

 

Sorry, but things like this are hard to explain what I mean and felt and might sound stupid.  I actually forgot about the panic attacks as they happened a few years back.... just remembered that was the reason I stopped the drinking caffeine drinks.  

 

 

 

 

[Krataiboy]

19 hours ago, NCC1701A said:

I suffer from depression and now that I am retired I tell people here in Thailand right up front that I have to be careful who I associate with and I can only drink soda water.

 

You might have to accept that you are different from other people and may never be able to participate in some of what other people do, like getting married, or having a huge responsibilities placed upon you.      

 

if you are depressed you must give up all alcohol 100%. if you have a real drinking problem you need to get that fixed first. I know it is not easy for some people. What ever you do, stay out of bars with negative people who will drag you down. Unfortunately so many people in Thailand socialize in bars but you just have to give it up.     

 

then adjust your diet and exercise a lot. pay attention to what you eat and how it affects your mood. cut out all sugar. If you are mobile get a hobby like taking care of an elephant or join a group activity like Hash House Harriers or Trash Heroes. Walk around the mall. Yoga, meditation. 

 

For me, riding my motorcycle in Thailand makes me feel great because my brain gets dopamine because it is so dangerous. I know, its weird. 

 

Make short term plans, like traveling to another city so you have something to look forward to. 

 

if there is something in your life that is really bothering you, if you can, fix it. or get rid of that person. Sorry but you need to do what you need to do.  

 

Stay away from people who think depression is a "mood" and you just need to snap out of it.

 

good luck.

 

From Bumrungrad Hospital:

"Depression can be prevented by adhering to the following:

• A Healthy Diet – Eating a healthy, balanced diet consisting of the 5 food groups consumed in moderation will help with preventing depression; nutrient deficiencies such as a shortage of omega, vitamins E, C and D, iron, and copper can increase the risk of developing depression.
• Exercise – People are advised to exercise at least 4 times per week for 30–40 minutes per day. Exercise may be light, like a brisk walk.
• Rest – Getting a sufficient amount of sleep is essential to wake up feeling refreshed throughout the following day.
• Mindfulness – Studies have found that practicing mindfulness techniques can increase mental wellbeing and reduce stress levels.
• Optimism – Try to view the world in a positive light, as this will give the much-needed mental strength needed to succeed through periods of great stress and discomfort."

https://www.bumrungrad.com/en/depression-behavioral-health-center-bangkok-thailand/conditions

 

   

 

Edited September 19, 2018 by Krataiboy

[jak2002003]

1 hour ago, kingstonkid said:

You are correct But am I safe in assuming that you did not do this on your own.  These are great ideas but you also have to deal with the "issue"  and having someone that can walk you through and help guide you is not a bad thing in the beginning

 

There was never any issue.  Depression often has not 'cause' as such.  Genetics, chemical imbalances in the brain, personality etc all play a part.  Then any added stresses in life compound it... but people can have the best life, no serious issues or problems, yet they still can get depression.

 

I agree with you that finding someone to help you through... professionals.... is a real must.  Just talking helps... but the helper must be qualified / work for an organisation dealing with depression.  Just random friend or do gooder can make the problems a lot worse, no matter what they good intentions are.. as they must have a real understand about mental health problems.  

[Kadilo]

29 minutes ago, jak2002003 said:

Thanks... I think different things help different people and their particular situation. 

 

I found too much / strong caffeine would make me very 'nervous' and anxious and make my mind start racing thinking about things that got me upset and made me feel very on edge and emotionally unstable... also just generally unwell 'highly strung' and stomach aches (as I was having a coffee or coke rather than eat).    Sorry hard to explain.  As I was getting some panic attacks sometimes I thought this was sure not helping!!!  

 

I only even had 2 or 3 shots of whisky.. when I was out socialising (perhaps 3 - 4 times a week).  Each shot was with a big bottle of soda water and lots of ice. 

 

People thought it strange as sometimes a glass was almost all soda water.. but still tasted OK to me... and I could have the 3 shots over the evening,  with no worry of getting a hangover or getting drunk and emotional.  It was nice to have a social drink with friends a few times a week.  Gave me something to look forward to on a set day.  Being in a group and laughing and joking and not thinking about serious things was a great help to relax and rest me.  I can't say enough how just getting outside and mixing with other human beings really helps.  That was very difficult to get myself to do... as I am not a very social person anyway, and the depression made me want to hide away on my own.

 

Sorry, but things like this are hard to explain what I mean and felt and might sound stupid.  I actually forgot about the panic attacks as they happened a few years back.... just remembered that was the reason I stopped the drinking caffeine drinks.  

 

 

 

 

Doesn’t sound stupid at all. For anyone who has/is suffering from depression/anxiety it makes perfect sense. Many thanks. 

[theonetrueaussie]

I too had depression and extreme anxiety for the last 4-5 years and found it very hard to get rid of, I recently this year got a full blood panel done and found out my hormones were low. What many people do not realize is that your estrogen levels actually control how you feel. By getting mine in the sweet spot my depression has completely gone, A simple blood test can let you know what your estrogen level is and then if that is your problem you can raise it or lower it with diet, exercise and nutritional supplements.  

Edited September 19, 2018 by theonetrueaussie

[Jaggg88]

22 hours ago, BritManToo said:

Me too, drunk and depressed. Can't see any point in living any more (which isn't the same as thinking of killing myself).

Being sober just allows me more time to think about being unhappy, so I get up and do 2-3 hours of something strenuous outside followed by lunch and 4 hours drinking gives me 7 hours of a depression-free day. Add to that 2 hours of reading or watching TV, 2 hours of shopping and food prep, collecting the kid from school, and 9 hours sleeping, makes for a decent day.

(That probably sounds crazy but it works for me)

 

Try to get out more during the day.

There are many ppl reading your post who can empathize but what you're doing is self-medicating with alcohol and unfortunately, many of us do this. The trouble is that alcohol and recreational drugs only alleviate the symptoms temporarily and when they wear off the symptoms are worse which is why you often read that alcohol is a depressant. If you can convince yourself to visit a medical professional you may be prescribed medication to treat the underlying cause of your depression and this, together with some therapy/lifestyle changes can massively improve your life. Hope this helps.

[Aussieroaming]

Depression is a absolute bugger of an illness. I have it and over time have learnt to recognise the onset, which helps. Anti depressants made me feel worse. I exercise, gave up drinking, all of which help the depressive thoughts stop magnifying. Seek help or find your own method to minimise the depressions influence and good luck.