Posted by Theresa Rae on February 6, 2003, at 16:57:37
In reply to Re: In the depths of depression--please help » Theresa Rae, posted by japonica on February 4, 2003, at 14:31:09
Living with someone suffering from depression is not easy, it's true. I've done a lot of reading about depression, and have received more than my share of advice from my psychologist (who has helped me through this), my parents, my siblings, friends, and even my oldest son, who is just 11 now.
I have gone through the stages -- wondering if it was me, thinking he was just a jerk, or lazy, or mean. I've been sad myself, angry, numb, the gamut. I have mentally divided up the furniture and household things, and tried to figure out if I could afford to move myself and the kids out. And through it all, I figured that I made an awfully big promise to God, my family and friends, and to my husband. In sickness and in health.
He's been getting help, and has had a few good weeks. To those of you living with the depressed, hang in there, and don't give up. It may be impossible for your loved one to make the initial appointment, to read the book, to see what their live is all about. It's normal to feel angry and sad about the whole situation, but remember, it isn't that person's fault. If your partner had cancer, or diabetes, or was blind, you may feel differently. Because depression often affects a person's behavior (and they might otherwise seem healthy), it's a very difficult illness to live with. You can make it, things can get better (for BOTH of you), and there is light at the end of the tunnel. Don't stop looking for and asking for help until you find it (this goes for everyone).
Stepping down off of soapbox...
Theresa Rae
poster:Theresa Rae
thread:137446
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030204/msgs/139848.html