Wow. It sounds like I could be talking to myself a while ago. I've got PN, failed lumbar spine surgery (so eventually a hoveround for me) and severe osteoporosis in my lumbar spine and I'm only 47. I do my best to keep focusing on the positive. I can get people to do things for me that I can't do anymore. People listen to me as though I have the wisdom of the ages (I love that). When I do get my hoveround I'm buying all the really cool shoes that I can't wear now. I won't be walking in them so I'll have stunning looking feet without damaging my spine. And I'm very eager to turn 50. I plan on having a half-century party. I'm in pain ALL THE TIME. Even with the multitude of meds I take there really isn't any relief. So one thing I found is to focus on helping other people. It really keeps my mind from turning on itself. I try to help as many people as I can. Even if that help is just telling them a joke to make them smile. For me, I feel like if I can't help those around me, what's the point in breathing in? I hope you find whatever it is to pull you out of your funk. I can't tell you what will work for you, only let you know what works for me and pray you find your own way. Best of luck to all of us!

Don't try to think of the future, it is only the here and now that we are anble to do something about and make sure you do as much as you can each day( says me who has slept all day but I have had a lovely week at the sea so am not worth much now but it was wonderful during the week)
the future terrifies me but it has been compartmentalised to the back of my mind.
Take care and good luck.

*** I'm reading a great book called "The Pain Chronicles", written by a journalist who suffers from chronic pain. In it she talks about the spiritual aspect of living with chronic pain. Not only does the conscious practice of gratitude distract from the pain, it does -- biochemically -- reduce the depressive brain chemicals.

CB

Thanks! While I didn't know that, it doesn't surprise me one bit. I will have to search and see if I can find that book--do you have it handy? I'd like to know the author's name.

I have a strong faith in God and while I know that God did not cause this in my life--he allowed it for a reason. Knowing that through this experience, I can make a difference in the world, by reaching others who are in similar positions--makes it all worthwhile. Does it take the pain away or make being bedridden easier? No. But I have always wanted to make a difference in the world. My dream was always to be a teacher and work with children--particularly children who may not have people in their lives to love them and encourage them. Not being able to leave this bed, let alone stand up for 8 hours a day teaching is really tough. Still, God has shown me that I can do other things to leave my mark on this world. I do what I can to reach out to and encourage people who are hurting and struggling with medical problems. I am starting a ministry at my church to help those who have a chronic illness or disability. I know that that is a ministry that could continue for decades and generations to come. Would I be spending my time and energy doing these things if I was teaching full time? Nope. God always takes the bad thing in our lives and makes good out of them. Sometimes it just takes time for us to see that.

I know that not everyone believes in God.. but the same thing can apply to anyone's life regardless of belief.

The more positive I am on a day to day basis, the easier it is to deal with the circumstances in my life.. and the happier I feel.

The way I look at it is if my wounderful wife, daughters,new grandson,son in law , family and friends dont have to live with this crap.Then keep sending me the curve balls and my love ones all of the home run pitches.

Just remember this....It isn't always progressive. I got it in my feet several years ago, and it has not moved at all.

Also, if the Cymbalta isn't working, you can try another medication. Not alll meds effect people the same way. For me? I take Lexirpro. It doesn't give me any side-effects, and it definitely helps with my anxiety/depression.

Lastly....you are alive. Check the obits.....people over 50 drop dead every day from heart attacks and strokes. Be thankful that you are vertical.....dust yourself off, find the right med that works, and don't assume that it will get worse!

Last month I added this little bugger called "Tinnitus". Now THAT'S a lousy disorder. Google that one, and you will know what I mean.

I am right there with you. I am 43, still raising kids and fighting the monster of depression and anxiety. I don't know what is causing my neuropathy, all I know is that it is progressing.

So I was talking to one of my best friends yesterday, having a 'what am I going to do' tirade, and she gave me some good advice. The first part is from her boyfriend, who is a recovering addict: live each day with an attitude of gratitude. List those things you can still do, and appreciate them. How much we take for granted when we are healthy...it's crazy! Another good one: take it just one day at a time. For me, thinking too much into the future makes me very anxious. Wake up thinking about making it through that day, trying to focus more on good and grateful. Lastly, she reminded me that I am so much more than my disease, or broken body parts. My heart, soul, words and actions will remain healthy and unbroken if I can allow it to be.

Easier said than done? Of course! But it is a starting point and everyone has to start somewhere.

This is a wonderful thread. I woke up in much more pain than usual, stormy rainy days can do that. I am 51, losing the ability to walk up stairs and having trouble with my arms, getting dressed, etc. I have CMT so it is progressive, and I will be on heavy pain medication for the rest of my life in addition to landing in a wheelchair sometime in the next few years.
I still have children at home, my youngest is 14. I am thankful that my 5 were mostly grown up before my symptoms got really bad. Only one of my three biological children seems to have inherited this disease, and I am thankful for that.

I do get depressed about losing my needlework skills, which were a big part of my life, about losing so many hours in the day to my increased need for rest and sleep, I used to get up before dawn, only needed about six hours, now I seem to need ten or more. Being in constant pain, even ameliorated by the meds, can get to me.

The advice to not think too much about the future is good. We have had to do some planning and renovations to stay in this house, but otherwise it is best to try and live one day at a time, building in as many treats and pleasures as you can. My husband actively tries to plan things for us to look forward to, after years of ignoring ths disease as much as possible. He has finally accepted the reality of all this and has been so much better.

We all need to treat ourselves well, to take care of ourselves and not expect too much.

I'm 60 and when my condition began over 3 years ago I laid on the couch and thought I couldn't walk. The thought of this for life was depressing. My issues change and they get worse and then calm down. I do a lot of alternative stuff, eat well and follow advise from here. However I had to take breaks from this site and continue living. What keeps me going is that I stay involved with my passions. You can't focus on these conditions and pain or you will go under. If you have to whine, do it here. Limit it with family and friends. I feel crappy every morning but once I get up and move around it gets better. I still bike, kayak, hike(tho more limited) and garden. I also have non physical creative hobbies so if I can't be active I do other things. When I started to panic about all this my doctor gave me adivan for anxiety but I only needed it a few times. Pain sucks, but there are a lot of things to try before we give up. Believe me, none of this is easy. Also remember that as we enter our 50's no ones body is the same as it was in their 20' and 30's. We have to get to know that new body and listen to it. Hope this is encouraging.

WOW.....you wrote exactly how I feel too. I am 43. I hope it gets better for you. My heart goes out to you, I know how the depression feels and feeling almost envious of people (mostly women) who appear to be perfectly normal.