Overcoming difficult times with running.

 Nothing like as difficult as yourself 'Eckytump' having 4 young children myself I can't imagine what I'd be like if I lost one.  But the therapeutic benefits of running have made my life and those nearest and dearest to me more bearable.

   I've suffered depression and associated problems for many years and running is the best medicine -my doctor recognises just how important it has been for me and this year [New Years resolution !] I stopped taking anti-depressants after a long gradual withdrawl and 'touch wood' everythings been fine - after 12 years of taking them!!    I don't suppose distance running is the solution for everybody - but it works a treat for me and seems to be beneficial to you.  

 It was a return to running for me , I don't know if that makes a difference ?  I was a keen runner / football player in my youth and early adulthood and so kind of new its 'positive' mental health benefits.  I am now 48 and been running again for about 1 year -I've done two 1/2 M's and a 10 M & a couple of Fun Runs with the kids.  I've got the big one next Sunday though -B/Pool Marathon !!!!  

I still get 'down' though but not depressed - my problem is harnassing my enthusiasm so to speak - I'll have to guard against obsession and I  was a miserable so & so when I had to rest up for 2 weeks.   But the positives far out weight the negatives I've lost a stack of weight , havn't smoked for 2& 1/2 yrs  eat sensibly and I am generally a 'happier' person.

 I sincerely hope it carry's on working for both of us and probably thousands of others around the world who find it helps with their problems.     All the very best.

I started running to get fit but its really helped me with lots of other things aswell like work,stress and overall general happiness.

Made me more positive too.

I do think its all relative though,I know a lot of people go through such difficult times,I certainly dont have Monopoly on pain and heartache. I am always saddened to hear of people going through very tough times whatever they may be.

Frodo,sounds like you have had a tought time of it,I know what you mean about not dealing with the grief,I did the GNR and cried through most of it,it was when people kept willing me on,it all just got too much in the end,I do get emotional still on runs but it has eased now,I only cry at the finnish,people are so supportive of me though.

Lucas,well done getting off the Antidepressants,thats a huge achievement,I know with running I have managed to stay away from them for now,I must admit on the realy bad days I would judt get my shoes on and run,I sort of feel like Im running with my son if that dont sound mad.Good luck for your Marathon.

Madlot,it does give you a posistive outlook.

Hungryconsumer I agree with the fact it was the one thing that kept you from going under,glad to hear you have had some positives come from a very tough time.

Hi 404,depression is a very difficult thing to deal with so dont ever feel your problems are trivial.I can realy relate to the isolating and just feeling like you are away from everything,it realy does help you to deal with what may lie ahead. I find it realy interesting what makes people want to run,I recently did the Kilomathon and there were so many inspirational people there,one guy only had one leg and did the 16 miles on crutches and I know there were people who have had cancer running,I find these people so inspiring as I know I run as a result of Grief but I cant imagine doing those miles with physical difficulties. Im sorry you have been unable to run for so long,good that you have your friends to look out for you though,you will be back out there before you know it.

I know the running thing isnt for everyone but Im sure if more able people did it,they would feel the benefits.

 I have just been for the run from Hell,dont have them very often but I think anyone who just saw the state of me could be put off for life.lol.