Recovery is a difficult journey for everyone but, for some, there are obstacles that can slow or even block progress. While it is easy to say, “Make changes in your life,” some changes can be difficult to confront. Here are some examples.
Many people with depression try to self-manage their symptoms with alcohol, drugs or compulsive gambling.8,14 Most experts feel that alcohol and other drug abuse is not a sign that depressed people are trying to “medicate” themselves out of their depression but a separate illness altogether.14
This can mean living in an abusive relationship or surrounding oneself with people who make poor choices or who are dangerous and cruel. It can also mean living in unsafe housing.8
People who’ve experienced physical, sexual or emotional abuse as children have many difficulties as adults. One problem can be depression.8
People who live in poverty or who are all alone are more prone to depression and their recovery can be slowed by the difficult realities they face daily.8 Others may struggle with poor working conditions, unemployment, the loss of a loved one, divorce or other misfortunes.8
