I am a senior who is very depressed and I am finding it hard to cope with, 65 years old, fairly good health. I used to take Ativan for anxiety, but I don't want to take it anymore, because it's highly addictive. I have a husband, who is introvert and has a drinking problem ( I am an extrovert), daughter who is 25 and doesn't really care about us, lives at home, but doesn't communicate with us. She never wants to talk with me, spend time with me and I find it very hard. Ever since I got depressed it got worst, she just says it is all in my head, basically that I am crazy and I think that her approach is making me feel even worst. I pulled back into my shell and became really recluse, which I never was before. I was always an outgoing person, who loved fun and had tons of friends.
When I was working I was always on the go, now I find it hard to get up and cook something, I don't enjoy being with friends, can't concentrate on reading (which I used to love). I long for someone to come and say I love you and I care about you, I long for kiss and embrace ......but it will not happen. It feels like the purpose of my life is gone and I don't have anything to live for! What is happening with me? Is it the shock of retirement? Is it the realization that i am getting old and there is nothing to look forward to?

aqua@home

Hvezda, it looks to me like you have had this problem for a while (Aug '05). Maybe it is time to get some counselling. I hope you find what you are looking for.

cromptondot

I agree,you should seek counseling.There is help out there.

valinors_sorrow

I think I see a big problem getting glossed over... have you tried attending Al-Anon meetings since you would certainly qualify? Its a fellowship for friends and family members of alcoholics or people who have a drinking problem. It just may be the exit door to your depression and lonliness.

cromptondot

I have worked with senior citizens for many years,but by no means am I an expert,but I do have lots of experience. As we get older,lots of times our whole existence changes.May be health problems, losing loved ones,etc. It is usually a gradual decline,unless one has mentally prepared for it earlier.When it does happen,it is hard to accept for most people. Trying to not isolate oneself,is a key factor in keeping mentally healthy. Getting some counseling to help with the alcohol can be the first. You will meet people at the meetings whom you can have something in common with,then you can develop more relationships,There are people who care,and are willing to help.They just need to know. We can't help if we don't know of the need. Pick up the phone.This site is a wonderful starting place.

Amythest

i hope you have goten counseling. it sounds like your love language may be verbal and quality time. there is a book called the 5 love languages, maybe if you can bring your self to it read it with you spouse. it can help . al anon helped me out alot, also pluggin yourself into a local church or community like program can help. maybe try out some new hobbies.

valinors_sorrow

Many lovely suggestions here... I hope the OP sees them?

talaniman

Retirement can be a wake up call as the routine of life changes dramatically. Since you seem to have a lot of time on your hands volunteering to help others thru church organizations and local community groups is an excellent way to meet new people and feel like your doing something positive. Don't isolate yourself and waste all that talent and experience you have. Give it to someone who needs it.