Depressed & can't even get out of bed to go to class

[sbrazle]

I was diagnosed with I.C. last October, but I have had I.C. symptoms since I was 12 years old. I'm a college freshman and I had only been enrolled in college for a month when I found out the root of my constant problems (I.C.). I was part time (about 25 to 30 hours a week) serving tables. Right before I was diagnosed, my now fiance and I moved in together and we are completely financially independent. My fiance works late hours at his job and also goes to school full time, so it's been difficult for him to give me the support I've been needing.
For the past couple of months, I can barely get out of bed in the mornings and I can't sleep at night until around 2 or 3 AM. The only part of my life I feel like I'm even partially successful at is work and that's only because I have to make money to support my fiance and I to pay our bills. After working on my feet all evening long, I'm so tired but toss and turn all night. In the mornings, I can't get out of bed until about 1 or 2 PM. I feel like this: what is the point of going to class? I'm failing all of my classes and will lose my scholarships after this semester. I used to be so happy before my I.C. symptoms started acting up. I just want my life back and I'm not sure what in the world to do.

[ICNDonna]

Please talk with the disabilities office at your school --- you may be able to arrange to withdraw for a time without loss of scholarships due to your health. You really need some guidance and they should be able to help you.

Are you following an IC diet? If not, I suggest you begin today and follow it faithfully. Are you seeing a urologist? If not, I strongly urge you to do so very soon. There are many treatment options available for IC in addition to following the diet. Are you taking any medications?

Hang in there. You will have better days ahead.

Warm hugs,
Donna

[amyw507]

I'm so sorry that you are having a hard time right now. I'm 24 and I know it's hard to be diagnosed with IC at such a young age. I also have days where I feel like life is not worth living with this condition. But, most days I try to look on the bight side and think about all the positive people and things in my life. I am also in school and I know how hard it can be to get up and go to classes. Maybe you could talk with your school about what you've been going through. Good luck with everything and know that things will get better.

-Amy

[425runner]

I too have been very, very depressed ever since IC symptoms started. I suggest you visit your school's psychologist or a psychiatrist and tell them how you feel and how is IC interfering with your life.


Good luck!

[sbrazle]

Thanks for the encouragement, everyone. I'm currently trying to withdraw for the semester and still be able to keep my scholarships. I'm currently seeing a nurse practitioner in my home town of Cookeville, TN. Her mother-in-law also has I.C. so she has been helpful and able to understand the pain of what I've been going through. In December I had went to see a specialist in Murfreesboro, TN but the drive is so long and with my busy school and work schedule it was too much to keep up with my appointments with her. Right now I am trying to alter my diet to the best of my ability. I no longer drink anything with carbonation or eat anything with tomatoes, oranges or anything spicy, but it seems that I'm always still in pain no matter what I eat. I've been faithfully taking Elmiron 100 mg twice daily, Hydroxyzine 10mg and Amitriptyline 10mg both once daily at night.

[leelee88]

Seems like you are doing all the right things, but just want to add that stress is a big trigger for IC..So please do go see someone about your stress and depression..Depression is real and you need to talk to someone about this. Also It takes time for the Elmiron to really start working.. So give it all some time and try your best to stay positive.. IC symptoms can get better!! Big hugs and please know your not alone..