Depression resulting from serious respitory illness - treatment options?

[ChelseaK85]

Um, right, so like, Ive been struggeling with depression, which I think is partly family based/genetic and partly due to the fact that Ive been diagnosed with moderate emphesyma, even though Im only 27 years old. Yes, I am a smoker, and yes, I started smoking when I was way way too young, and yes, I continue to smoke way way too much for me, even though I know its terrible - Im an addict and I can't just quit. Ive tried but it just never works.

Ive tried Wellbutrin and Abilify, but that didnt seem to help much. I dont know if the fact that Ive already lost about 30% of my lung function is causing me to have decreased oxygen flow in such a way that could be causing or exacerbating my depression or what - but someone told me the other day they think that could be part of it, then they said I should try harder to quit smoking. But everytime I tried to quit smoking, my mood just went all over the place and I just felt like total crap, its like cigarettes were the only thing helping me get through the day. So no matter how painful my shallow breathes may be, and how nasty the wracking coughs may get after every time I light up another cigarette - I dont forsee myself being able to get off those anytime soon.

So, yeah - can my cigarettes be causing my depression, even though they are one of the only things that actually makes me feel better about myself?  If not, could it be the lack of oxygen to my lungs caused by the early emphysema?  What else can I start taking? Since I can't/won't stop smoking, then what else can I do?

[CaliforniaGuy12]

Hi Chelsea,

You might try moderate exercise.  I can demo a few things that are easy for anyone to do, even for someone with light emphysema.  These exercises are as easy as walking with a few extra moves thrown in.  Let's skype briefly and I can show you exactly what I'm talking about.

Dan1-california (skype handle)

[remar]

You might want to give the patch a try. It really does help when you get those terrible cravings. Also, chewing gum and eating hard candy helps alot. The first week or so is the hardest. After that it gets easier and you start breathing better and feeling better. The younger you are the easier it is to quit smoking. Please give this a try.
I do think your depression is keeping you from quitting. Have you ever tried any other meds besides the two you mentioned? There are several other ones to choose from. Just because these two did'nt help does'nt mean another one won't.
I would also recommend counseling. It can really help with your depression and maybe help you to quit smoking too.