UC symptoms, med side effects, depression?

[mama21princess]

I have been feeling very tired all the time. I have a difficult time working up the energy to do anything, even simple things like washing dishes. I try to act happy, and like everything is okay, but I'm really not happy most of the time. I was diagnosed with UC in May, and I am taking Lialda. I don't know if the way I feel is because of the UC, side effects of the Lialda, or if I am depressed. I'm just really confused, and I don't know what to do.

 

[mickey]

chronic illness does contribute to a little depression....make sure you are eating and drinking healthy so you can rule out poor nutrition...find stress relievers for you (exercise, meditation...) to help you. If you are exercising daily (20 min walking or other)...it is hard to stay depressed. Let those endorphins kick in and keep you going! Get yourself on a good sleep schedule as well; which can encourage deep sleep and restful sleep. Feel better!

 

[scottsma]

I agree with Mickey.But you know, it's ok to feel tired occasionally,even fit & healthy folk feel under par sometimes.Have you got support and understanding at home? If so,tell them you need to have a lie down for a while and could they please wash the pots or take the trash out.If it all gets too much,then have a word with your Doctor or IBD nurse.It's still early days for you,but IBD is manageable and you will learn what you can and can't eat and do.But a walk in the fresh air and a good diet is a start.I hope you're having a better day today.Don't be so hard on yourself.

 

[mama21princess]

My husband isn't much help around the house, unfortunately. If I don't do it, it usually doesn't get done. I have a 3 year old daughter, and it is hard to feel like a good mom when all I want to do is lay on the couch.
I think I was having a particularly bad day yesterday because this lady at church was making me feel bad for not wanting to commit to helping with a children's class every Wednesday night. She was telling me all about her niece who has Crohn's, and all of the wonderful things she does. I wanted to tell her to be quiet.
Anyway, I really appreciate the encouragement. I've been feeling pretty down.

 

[scottsma]

I'm loath to say it,but most men are useless in the home,or pretend to be.We make a huge mistake when we first get together,trying to prove what great homemakers we are.If you don't feel up to it,don't do it.You're priority is your daughter,then yourself then your hubs.Once you get this bad spell over,you can catch up (if you want to).And don't let others make you feel guilty and railroad you into doing stuff.If the weathers good,take your daughter for a little walk and play I-spy or something.Then go home and read to her.Just take one day at a time.......

 

[Mountaingem]

It sounds like you may be depressed. It comes with chronic illness, as the others have said. Also even if the medications don't directly cause it, just having your body in a constant state of upheaval is enough to trigger depression in anyone. I finally broke down and started taking medication for it several years ago and my only regret is that I tried to "tough it out" for so long. Sending healing thoughts your way!