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An honest question - you have depression/anxiety, don't like the bright sunshine/fear the cloudiness & work in domestic violence. Ever think your career is negatively affecting you mentally/physically & a career change might brighten up your life, rather than a change of living place?
If I found myself in your situation, I'd focus more on getting my health issues under control, prior to moving. It sounds as if you're uncomfortable in your own skin. Remember, whatever problems you have in one area, come with you when you relocate.
Just trying to offer food for thought... Baltic_Celt
I lived in Seattle for 12 years and I basically moved there from Montana at the time. I have presently lived in Southern California for the past 7 years (LA and San Diego). I also visit Northern California frequently as I have friends there (that also once lived in Seattle).
I tell you all of this as I and my friends in Northern California talk about the Seattle and its weather pros and cons quite frequently. Why? Because even though we have all moved down to California for different reasons (yes, some were that we were looking for less drizzle and a frequent ejection of sun.) But we ALL miss Seattle greatly and would love to move back. Sometimes more then others.
Two things stand out to me about shifting seasonal gears for people who biochemically lean toward depression and even those who don't. Exercise was critical to my mental health when I lived up there. I was a runner and even enjoyed running in the rain. When it was too rainy I had a back up plan. I think if you find an activity as well as a cold/wet day back up plan and work on following through (more rather then less), it will really make things not only just fine, but you will love Seattle and your body will readjust more quickly too. I got massages when I was able (increases endorphins naturally), learned to love a special hot drink that I coveted (such as coffee, tea-herbal or reg., or hot chocolate).
There is a vibrancy and energy itself to the city in certain areas (libraries, shopping areas, taking classes etc) that can also eject one with an enthusiasm that can even replace the sun. There is a reason many successfully people and businesses come out of Seattle, people pursue other interests rather then sun oriented stuff.
Thirdly I recommend vacations at critical times to specific sun areas. Make sure you plan this into your yearly budget as you do rent and make sure to get there for your first winter visit before you get so unsun depleted.
Many vacation in Palm Springs, Arizona, Southern California, even Florida and do it regularly. If you can't afford a sunny place then enjoy one thing Seattle has to offer, which is access to many other types of places to visit--ski in Idaho, Montana, take a trip to Utah and ski there. There is more sun in those cold places and it can be a fun adventure and get you out of the doom and gloom, which honestly you will miss and become accustomed to. SUre you'll miss the sun at times. But you can always visit these sunny places anytime and for the rest of your life. All of these finer details and activities can turn the Seattle gray and drizzle into a perfect home. When the sun rolls around (and sometimes it takes forever and does last long, sometimes it can be longer then usual--this year is an example. But when it does come out the reward is immense and rarely duplicated elsewhere in the states. It makes it worth the rain and then Seattle is perfect.
Also, if you are working during the weeks and can't get away or afford extended vacations, you can always sneak away for a few days and easily so as Seattle is a vibrant city that nurtures easy travel as well.
I am not saying you have to get out of Seattle to enjoy living in Seattle. What I am saying is part of the benefit of living in Seattle as many other dynamic cities is you can easily get to other places to mix things up so you will better enjoy coming home and sitting in front of the fireplace with your tea or coffee or whatever you are into.
I hope you find all you need. Moving to Seattle changes where one gets their enjoyment, but it is such a wonderful place in many ways it can be a rich and wonderful place to live. Best of luck to you in your decision making. I hope this is helpful.
I have the same thing about bridges and anxiety driving--EXACTLY! So I know what you are talking about.
It started when I lived one year in Portland before I moved into Seattle. For some reason every year it just gets worse and worse. Two things I can reassure you about is--first the floating bridge is fine to drive on (atleast for me) as it is literally at water level so it feels like a normal road. The grates in the bridge may bother you a little (if you are freaky about the smallest thing like I am), but it just annoys and it is not slick (my fear) when it rains. It just makes noise.
Going across 90 is also fairly low to the ground and although when you enter it from the city side (because for a minute or two it is slightly higher, you may feel a slight anxiety, but it is short lived. Just keep an even driving pace and stay in the right lane (or second to the right if being close to the edge freaks you out.) if there are any problems. I always hum a favorite uplifting song or pray if I am feeling really freaked and it seems people are zooming past me. When it is raining this can really make it worse. But as you get to know what works for you and what does not you will find alternates that allow you to go certain places at certain times and days and ways. Having all the ferries can help as well.
In the city core there is always an alternate to the very high bridges. I used those when it was really raining or if I was especially anxious or in the end I just lived driving the alternates routes eventually.
One thing I always liked about Seattle is that there is always an alternative route to the major freeways and bridges (except West Seattle--but that is not a have to get to place. You chose to go there.)
You will get used to the short, not too high bridges between neighborhoods. They never freaked me out at all and I am bad here. You may try not to drive at night in the rain on any bridges that bother you either that will make it worse. The roads there can be fairly dark in certain areas, others are well lit. But, as I said there are always alternative routes that are also very scenic, so they can settle one as well and make the side drive worth it.
An honest question - you have depression/anxiety, don't like the bright sunshine/fear the cloudiness & work in domestic violence. Ever think your career is negatively affecting you mentally/physically & a career change might brighten up your life, rather than a change of living place?
If I found myself in your situation, I'd focus more on getting my health issues under control, prior to moving. It sounds as if you're uncomfortable in your own skin. Remember, whatever problems you have in one area, come with you when you relocate.
Just trying to offer food for thought... Baltic_Celt
Fair questions, but what really sunk me into things was moving to Phoenix. Ever since I've been here, it's been like this. I do think you are right about working in DV. It is very depressing, not at all like what you'd think it to be. On the surface one would think it was, but then you do it and you KNOW it is, but for reasons you would not think of.
I have decided there will be a waiting period before I leave, and I will focus on those things you mention. Still, I have serious doubts I'll ever reach a happy place here. But I do know what you are saying and I need to address those things before leaving. I decided to move back down here far too quickly, and I fooled myself into thinking it would be different this time. Apart from my house, I don't like anything about this place (except for the Mexican food) and there is absolutely nothing of interest here for me. Thanks for your candid post.
I lived in Seattle for 12 years and I basically moved there from Montana at the time. I have presently lived in Southern California for the past 7 years (LA and San Diego). I also visit Northern California frequently as I have friends there (that also once lived in Seattle).
I tell you all of this as I and my friends in Northern California talk about the Seattle and its weather pros and cons quite frequently. Why? Because even though we have all moved down to California for different reasons (yes, some were that we were looking for less drizzle and a frequent ejection of sun.) But we ALL miss Seattle greatly and would love to move back. Sometimes more then others.
Two things stand out to me about shifting seasonal gears for people who biochemically lean toward depression and even those who don't. Exercise was critical to my mental health when I lived up there. I was a runner and even enjoyed running in the rain. When it was too rainy I had a back up plan. I think if you find an activity as well as a cold/wet day back up plan and work on following through (more rather then less), it will really make things not only just fine, but you will love Seattle and your body will readjust more quickly too. I got massages when I was able (increases endorphins naturally), learned to love a special hot drink that I coveted (such as coffee, tea-herbal or reg., or hot chocolate).
There is a vibrancy and energy itself to the city in certain areas (libraries, shopping areas, taking classes etc) that can also eject one with an enthusiasm that can even replace the sun. There is a reason many successfully people and businesses come out of Seattle, people pursue other interests rather then sun oriented stuff.
Thirdly I recommend vacations at critical times to specific sun areas. Make sure you plan this into your yearly budget as you do rent and make sure to get there for your first winter visit before you get so unsun depleted.
Many vacation in Palm Springs, Arizona, Southern California, even Florida and do it regularly. If you can't afford a sunny place then enjoy one thing Seattle has to offer, which is access to many other types of places to visit--ski in Idaho, Montana, take a trip to Utah and ski there. There is more sun in those cold places and it can be a fun adventure and get you out of the doom and gloom, which honestly you will miss and become accustomed to. SUre you'll miss the sun at times. But you can always visit these sunny places anytime and for the rest of your life. All of these finer details and activities can turn the Seattle gray and drizzle into a perfect home. When the sun rolls around (and sometimes it takes forever and does last long, sometimes it can be longer then usual--this year is an example. But when it does come out the reward is immense and rarely duplicated elsewhere in the states. It makes it worth the rain and then Seattle is perfect.
Also, if you are working during the weeks and can't get away or afford extended vacations, you can always sneak away for a few days and easily so as Seattle is a vibrant city that nurtures easy travel as well.
I am not saying you have to get out of Seattle to enjoy living in Seattle. What I am saying is part of the benefit of living in Seattle as many other dynamic cities is you can easily get to other places to mix things up so you will better enjoy coming home and sitting in front of the fireplace with your tea or coffee or whatever you are into.
I hope you find all you need. Moving to Seattle changes where one gets their enjoyment, but it is such a wonderful place in many ways it can be a rich and wonderful place to live. Best of luck to you in your decision making. I hope this is helpful.
Thanks, it's very helpful. Ideally, I'd like to find a way to keep my house here (as a sort of psychological backup) and then rent up there for a year. That way, it wouldn't be too big of a risk. I can always get a job and if I like it buy another place up there. I'm thinking that is the best strategy. I guess I have been having a mid life crisis for three years and life is short. There is no reason to be in a place that makes me unhappy. Sometimes I even think business wasn't such a bad deal (which I did before the domestic violence thing). It was stressful, but not in a depressing way.
I used to run and have an elliptical cross trainer, which helps greatly. Problem is, I don't work out nearly enough. I lived in Portland briefly and have pretty good memories of being there. I am from the north, and realize it's a completely different lifestyle, but one that is more "me." People do this hiking thing on brown rocks here, and I just don't get it. I like green and water and mountains. I really appreciate your sharing your thoughts.
I have the same thing about bridges and anxiety driving--EXACTLY! So I know what you are talking about.
It started when I lived one year in Portland before I moved into Seattle. For some reason every year it just gets worse and worse. Two things I can reassure you about is--first the floating bridge is fine to drive on (atleast for me) as it is literally at water level so it feels like a normal road. The grates in the bridge may bother you a little (if you are freaky about the smallest thing like I am), but it just annoys and it is not slick (my fear) when it rains. It just makes noise.
Going across 90 is also fairly low to the ground and although when you enter it from the city side (because for a minute or two it is slightly higher, you may feel a slight anxiety, but it is short lived. Just keep an even driving pace and stay in the right lane (or second to the right if being close to the edge freaks you out.) if there are any problems. I always hum a favorite uplifting song or pray if I am feeling really freaked and it seems people are zooming past me. When it is raining this can really make it worse. But as you get to know what works for you and what does not you will find alternates that allow you to go certain places at certain times and days and ways. Having all the ferries can help as well.
In the city core there is always an alternate to the very high bridges. I used those when it was really raining or if I was especially anxious or in the end I just lived driving the alternates routes eventually.
One thing I always liked about Seattle is that there is always an alternative route to the major freeways and bridges (except West Seattle--but that is not a have to get to place. You chose to go there.)
You will get used to the short, not too high bridges between neighborhoods. They never freaked me out at all and I am bad here. You may try not to drive at night in the rain on any bridges that bother you either that will make it worse. The roads there can be fairly dark in certain areas, others are well lit. But, as I said there are always alternative routes that are also very scenic, so they can settle one as well and make the side drive worth it.
Oh wow, it's so good to "talk" to someone who understands. Did you know there is a bridge in Michigan and they actually pay for someone to drive them across the bridge? Yup, I read it, so this is more common than one thinks.
When I lived in the Bay Area there was the San Mateo bridge. Nine miles long and it arched up really high. I was ok on the Bay Bridge (mostly, on the upper deck) and had no problem with the Golden Gate Bridge. As I mentioned in my last post, I lived in Portland briefly but those bridges didn't bother me too much, although I did think about them while driving over them.
I think it's much easier to drive over bridges if there is a lane to pull over into. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. Being in the right lane helps too. I imagine there are people who read this and just think it's crazy. Oh well. Tunnels are even worse. It's a phobic thing, of sorts.
Thanks SO much for your post. It's so good to know that there are people out there who get this stuff. And thanks for the tips on how to avoid certain things. Puts my mind at ease.
ETA: And just for fun, I found the info on that bridge I referenced, but I cannot post the link here...
Quote:
On a calm sunny day, there is no site more pleasing than a ride across the isle filled waters below. Brilliant blue waters beckon pleasure boats, freighters, and ferries, creating a delightful scene for bridge enthusiasts. When winds are full, the adventure becomes a nightmare for many motorists as small cars sway in the wind. At gale strength, the Mighty Mac is no place to be. Winds toss vehicles to and fro as the “Mac” exhibits a strength far greater than one can imagine. Loss of life is rare, but there have been fatalities as strong gusts have pushed an unsuspecting vehicle over the edge to an untimely death. Small, compact cars should hesitate to make the five mile venture until the weather calms.
If one is wary of the drive, an escort may be utilized. Drivers may request bridge employees to chauffeur them across while nerves relax to the beauty that surrounds the expanse. Even big-rig drivers have been known to request an escort while crossing the intimidating bridge. Like the compact car, big rigs challenge the fury of the bridge on a heavily winded day. For many drivers, the valet trip is well worth taking advantage of as one enjoys the gorgeous scenery below.
If one is wary of the drive, an escort may be utilized. Drivers may request bridge employees to chauffeur them across while nerves relax to the beauty that surrounds the expanse. Even big-rig drivers have been known to request an escort while crossing the intimidating bridge. Like the compact car, big rigs challenge the fury of the bridge on a heavily winded day. For many drivers, the valet trip is well worth taking advantage of as one enjoys the gorgeous scenery below.
That is amazing! I have never heard of such thing. It is my dream come true! I wish they had this in more areas. I think the bridge that got to me in Portland is the one downtown that is really high that twists in the air (sorry, I know there are a ton of them down there). I think this one shoots off to 26 from there and I lived in Beavertown so there was just no avoiding it.
I am considering a move back there, this time possibly to Lake Oswego (or up to Northern Cal.--Danville--Pleasant Hill--Walnut creek etc), so like you I am wondering about bridges. It is actually really good where I live here in Los Angeles. No real twisting bridges high up in the air (where I drive anyway) and of course my husband loves to drive and is my chaffeur (spelling?) which is perfect! :-) Good luck with your research on your move and also career decisions. It sounds as though you have a lot of talents that could be put in a lot of different areas. Good luck to you.
Sorry I guess it is not BEAVERTOWN (HAHA!), but Beaverton. Hilarious. I feel stupid now. Where is that embarrassed, sweaty smiling icon when you need it?
Aberdeen? not good for a SAD person,,always cloudy and misty.Close to the ocean so its almost always overcast.I'm moving to Idaho just for this reason have been on prozac too long. Good luck on your journey in life.
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Wow!
