Is it clinical depression if you're depressed for legit reasons? My mother is schizo and still leaves me random voicemails telling me to watch out for this and that person who's following me, wants to kidnap my son, etc. My sister, who used to be my best friend in the entire world, within the last 10 years went from being my sister to being a nonfunctional, angry OCD person who I don't even recognize anymore (and when I do recognize her, it breaks my heart because I realize how much I've lost). My husband has been unemployed for close to 2 years now and is super stressed every day over his lack of job, uncertainty of future, etc. Our son was unplanned and while my husband loves him to death, he has difficulty being the father he wants to be sometimes because his stress just makes him impatient and irritable a lot of the times -- another thing that breaks my heart. I'm stuck at a job I hate because I can't begin to look for a new one (which will most likely pay signficantly less because I want to leave the field) until my husband gets a job and there's no telling when that will happen.
So yes. I find it hard to smile some days. How do I know if it's a normal reaction to the horrible chain of events in my life or if I'm falling prey to my genes and getting clinically depressed?
Thanks everyone. I was seeing a therapist for a little bit but the copays got too expensive. I was having a really bad day and just writing this post helped. Plus, my husband and I worked out together after work before picking up our son and it made a world of difference in both our attitudes. Thanks for the advice!
You don't have to have clinical depression in order to get help. Talking things out can always help. Don't worry about the label, and get the help that you need.
S.S.
If I were in your shoes, I would start with a visit to my primary care doctor. They will be trained & able to help recognize what you need to deal with all that you are going through. Please just call and make an appt. He/she will guide you in the right direction to get some help. Good luck!
It's called environmental depression - A depression brought about by a traumatic event or events or a lot of stress. Considering all you have posted, you have a lot on your shoulders right now and it can easily become overwhelming. Talk to someone...even a counselor can help without medication.
I had it and let it go further before seeking help...but I learned the skills to be able to handle it. The meds they put me on were low doses and I did not have to stay on them for long.
Depression can be genetic. If you looked at the science of the brain and the chemicals being transmitted, often the chemicals are flowing too freely, being blocked, or not being sent to the right receptors or transmitters. All the breathing exercises, healthy eating, and yoga in the world won't make a damn bit of difference if you have a chemical issue.
This chemical issue is a health issue. And, with any health issue it is best to see your primary care physician for a diagnosis. This diagnosis could be mild depression where you change things in your environment, participate in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), or simply see a therapist. The diagnosis could also uncover an organic, chemical issue that should be addressed.
Just because you may be predisposed to depression does not mean you have to live a life of despair and darkness. There are many people, medicated and unmedicated, who are able to deal with their depressive issues and live normal, healthy, productive lives.
I strongly urge you to perhaps start with your family doctor to get it all out on the table and create a plan for managing your feelings. Best wishes!
Both are legitimate and should be treated. You should definitely see someone about this.
Something to think about: would you guys ever leave LA? I would have to think you could find more job opportunity and a much better cost of living in other cities. Sounds like you don't have a lot of family so it may be worth a try. Just a thought. See the attached for some huge job opportunites opening up in PA. I hear that people are moving here from all over to take advantage of these high paying jobs. http://marcelluscoalition.org/2010/09/msc-launched-online...
Good luck-hopefully things will improve for you guys soon.
It doesn't matter WHY you are depressed. If you are feeling down, you should seek help. With all of the things you just mentioned, it is not at all surprising that you're feeling depressed right now. That is a lot for one person to handle. Talk to a therapist and get some help sorting everything out. You'll feel much better in the end.
The best thing you can do for yourself is go to the doctor... You have had a lot happen, but with your family history, it's better to be safe than sorry. Yes, these things could make it difficult for you to smile some days. I completely understand, but go to the doctor and explain everything to him/her to be safe.
Does it matter? You have to treat it no matter what causes it.
Start with intense exercise -- the best mood booster -- that should be a permanent part of your life in any case. Then try positive thinking and counseling. Then if those don't do the trick, try to find an antidepressant to suit you. Lots of people suffer from depression. Nothing to be ashamed of. Just do what you can to fix it and go on.
To me it sounds like you are just dealing with what is at hand. Your in a place that isn't enjoyable. It;s hard when you are so wrapped up with what going on you can't see a better future. I've been there. It helps to step back out of the situation (both you and your husband) and see what wonderful things you have. Just hold on to the positive thing and eventually things will be better. Talk to your doctor and see if there is something that can help you short term while things get better. Maybe a counselor would be of some help too. Good luck.
