Friday Coffee and Chat -- 10th October 2025

@Snowie Wow you’ve been busy today and got heaps done.

I’ve just washed some dishes and trying to look after myself as I’m reducing an anti depression and it’s been a bit brutal.

Going to do a zoom shortly with a friend then take my dog for a walk to nearby park. 🙂

I know the feeling with reducing anti depressants @Cuddlebear Done it myself before.

Thats great that you have got some things planned for this afternoon.

I hope you enjoy your zoom catch up. If your weather is like mine then it's a beautiful day for a dog walk.

@Blackcloud oh yes, that would be easier, but you are still to be commended. I know I wouldn't be able to work on the helpline as I tend to take other peoples' problems to heart and dwell on them much longer than would be required on helplines. Well done on sticking with it 🫂

@heartathome thanks for your words. I feel guilty that I have no motivation.

Up until a few years ago I had been volunteering in one way or another since the early 90's. I started at the local visitor centre, helping people with information about the swan valley, then a group coordinator for a kids' programme with my church, Sunday school teacher, secretary for my former Godchildrens' school P&F plus I had volunteered to help out at state and federal elections. This year was the first year I didn't volunteer at the state and federal elections. I'd been doing it for 30 years, it's time to retire! I also volunteered at the church run low cost supermarket where my brother works but found standing all day to be too much for my back.

I was hurt particularly when my church didn't acknowledge me for volunteering with their outreach programme yet my ex friend got a framed certificate because she gave them some boxes from her workplace.

If I had paid work I would have the motivation to get up every day. With the weather heating up I reckon I'll be more motivated, the dark days of winter always affect me adversely (SAD)

From my experience I have found a lot of people with mental health experience tend to care more for other people than they do themselves. I saw it in 2 friends of mine who both lived with depression and my own experience. Maybe it's because we don't believe we are worthy, or feel guilty that we don't take care of ourselves as we should.

Seasol is some very good organic fertiliser @Shaz51 ! I used to sell some at my workplace. My favourite fertiliser is Blood & Bone. Smells nice and safe for the veggies!

Good morning @ENKELI

You are so right! A lot of people with mental health experience tend to care more for other people than they do themselves.

I believe you are also right when you said, maybe it's because we don't believe we are worthy. All those past voices have had an impact, one way or the other. You're a very bright, caring and articulate person, from what I see!

Do other people tend to give you a hard time about your lack of motivation, or just yourself? It IS part of an illness! I know my son feels guilty for having no motivation but as you said, it's a part of depression!

It's 2am and I've just come back from a party. I didn't touch anything exciting excepting one shot of Malibu. I did well! It's on one of the best parties list. I was on a natural high tonight! 🤗 Lot's of 70's,80's and some 90's music. I danced a bit and sat with kids who were interested in the 70's. My era! 💛

@heartathome thank you for your kind words!

It's mostly me who beats myself up about the lack of motivation, but I know my mum wishes I was more like I used to be. But then when I was younger she would say jump and I would ask how high and in which direction. I never said no to her and that put guilt on me as well. She had situational depression after she and dad split (dad was a good sort, cheating on my mum and treating her like dirt) but doesn't really understand the lack of motivation.

She's only once made a comment about my house not being tidy but it stuck with me and I struggle with that if I think too much about it. I want my house to be clutter free but I have a hoarder brother and had to try and store a house full of furniture from when I lived with ex friend.

It used to cause me extreme anxiety that I would still be in bed at midday but I learned to listen to God when He tells me to Be Still.

One day at a time is all I aim for these days. Thinking too far forward can be stressful.

Hope your Sunday is a good one, and that the weather is lovely for you 🫂🤗