Thank you. I have been to a counselor but due to my being on SSD and Medicare the financial part plays a big role in that...thus is one added stressor. But I try and not to worry there are many with a lot worse circumstances. I have learned to listen to my body as it gives you cues and having a medical background helps. I take several medications some with scary side affects. My Faith in my only healer gets me through. I will say the enemy has tried to creep in during these bad days...about a week now so that is why my music soothes me. I read scriptures as well. I am not pushing my religion onto any person but I will encourage others to find Him. We don't know how long we're here on earth but I choose to believe and keep my relationship with my Savior #1 so when He calls me home I'll be whole again and joined with my loved ones.
God Bless you all!
I appreciate your feedback on here.

I have high anxiety, I am reactive and can “catch” a ride on the depression train easily. I believe any kind of distraction is good medicine, sounds like yours is christian music. I love to read, watch movies, journal and sometimes I just let myself sleep. I have used meds on and off over a long span of time. Sometimes I need it, and I can tell because I’m overwhelmed and nothing helps. There are some good meds for both these things, seeing a therapist is sooo helpful but it might take you a visit or two to find one you connect to. Just hang in their, learn about yourself, ask for help and learn how to be your own health advocate. The person who loves you the most should be you❤️

GIGreen
Not everyone is the same. We all have different effects with medications. And with ANY of the antidepressants you are to be weaned off under a Dr's care. We all deal with life in our own ways. I know most on here give good feedback but if you're NOT it THAT environment it isn't the same to deal with. I've had people tell me that there's other with much worse health I am well aware of that, again where circumstances are different as well. I mask a lot of how I am feeling through making others happy, whether it be laughter or just a listening ear. I sit and just listen. For me I put on headphones at night when it's the worst and I listen to my Christian music playlist.

Yes. From what I've read the depression can be in part due to the effects of lupus on our brain. The other factors that may cause depression is dealing with the pain and discomfort lupus causes, and our past experiences with friends, family, and doctors.