Posted by Dr. Bob on December 28, 2001, at 16:28:15
[Posted by IsoM on December 27, 2001, at 11:01:05
In reply to http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20011222/msgs/87935.html]
> My experiences but not necessarily my opinion.
>
> Both my ex-husband & I have clinical depression. We had three sons & all of them developed depression too, one as a teenager & two when they were still quite young, around 5-6 years old. I don't doubt that the environment played a role too but I know genetics had a lot to do with it.
>
> My youngest is now 19 & is still struggling & fighting depression, apathy, & anger. He was the happiest baby & toddler I'd ever seen - constantly laughing & smiling, but around the age of 5 it was like a dark cloud came over him. The doctor though perhaps food allergies at first but he tested negative & there was no history of allergies in the family.
>
> My ex-husband also has strong Asperger traits. Combine that with depression & alcoholism and you get a very self-centred personality. I basically raised my sons alone while he just grumped at them lots. Neither of us when we got married showed that much depression & he wasn't initially selfish or alcoholic.
>
> I treasure my sons but I also agonise for them with their problems. Only the oldest has "conquered" his depression & is managing well. He's not married but said he'd never have children. Same with my other two sons but the youngest said he'd never even consider marriage. He's so concerned he'd end up like his father - good intentions initially but a really lousy father & husband.
>
> Sorry for such a depressing answer. I'm still a romantic at heart & think marriage is one of the *greatest* gifts God has given mankind, but unfortunately, not for me. I'd never marry or enter a relationship again.
poster:Dr. Bob
thread:15977
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20011216/msgs/15977.html