Re:Personal Benefits form Meditation

I've experienced various degrees of depression, and also have ADD. Many years ago I tried to meditate but gave it up because of the mental chaos (not just "monkey mind" as described in many texts, but a relentless cacophany that refused to respond to the usual strategies of concentration and focusing). About 5 years ago I learned about ADD, was diagnosed and started taking Ritalin (I'm 52 years old). Since then I've developed a satisfying meditation practice and have had very little trouble with depression, including while going through a difficult divorce. As long as I'm on medication, I experience "monkey mind" now, just as it's described, without the utter chaos I used to have. When I'm not on medication I get chaos again, though not quite as badly as before.

My suggestion to you, if I may offer one, is to manage your ADD. It can be a significant element of depression and can block your best attempts to meditate.

Best of luck.

Replies:

There are no replies to this message.

| Behavior OnLine Home Page | Disclaimer |

Copyright © 1996-2004 Behavior OnLine, Inc. All rights reserved.