Dear Mom, I'm struggling. And I've been struggling for almost a year. I finally made a psychiatry appointment to try to figure things out. It's definitely deep depression. I'm still able to function in life and my job as a teacher but nothing more and everything feels so hard to do. I can't even text friends or family back. Making plans of any kind is exhausting. I'm barely living. And I resent my husband for not being more supportive and pushing me to get help. We've been together 10 years. Since we were in college but this is the first major health situation we have gone through. But I hit a point over my Christmas break and got the paperwork together and made the appointment. Late January. It's progress.
Hey duckie, I’m sorry you’re struggling. Depression is exhausting. I’m really proud of you for getting the paperwork together, and I’m proud of you for reaching out to us and being honest about your feelings. We love the heck out of you and will be rooting for you the whole way.
Duckie, is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) adding to the issue? If so, start taking vitamin D3, because you probably don't have enough to help. Your doctor can tell you if your D3 levels are low. I take 5000 IU year-round, because it's hard to build up D3 from supplements, and so much easier to get vitamin D3 from the sun. I don't get enough sun (plus I burn easily).
Make sure you are taking vitamin K2 with it or your body won’t absorb the D3 fully. I take vitamin D3 (5000 IU) with K2 not only for my mental health but for my autoimmune disease with my thyroid. It has helped both so much
I’m proud of you for finding the strength during all this to move forward towards a healthier, happier you. Depression can be so insidious in the way it settles in & affects daily functioning, it’s often hard to see the forest for the trees. Especially if you and/or your husband don’t have direct experience or a frame of reference for depression. Be kind to yourself & to him right now, but communicate openly & directly about what you’re facing, your treatment goals/timeline & support needs. Take this time before your appointment to learn about depression & treatment options that are available. Prepare any questions for your doctor, they are truly your partner in this journey. There are several classes of medications; SRNI, SSRI & Atypical with pros & cons for each. Most take weeks to reach full therapeutic levels in your system, your doctor can help you best navigate the right path. Consider seeing a therapist as well, it can be terrific support & safe place to let it all out & track progress. It will be okay, love, there are brighter days coming. Hugs, love & light💖
Oh boy, do I know this particular kind of struggle. All of it: the husband, mental health concern, college, work...all of it.
Some seasons are pure bliss; some are just fine, and some peel the flesh from your bones. I'm coming out the other side of what was THE single hardest year of my life (I'm 46) and it culminated in full-blown mental health crisis.
You're getting the help you need now. Sometimes it'll feel worse, but it will get better.❤️🩹
I am so proud of you for making that appointment and advocating for yourself! Big mom hugs.
I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I’m glad you are moving forward with getting help. (Hugs)
Sweetheart, I’m so proud of you for making the appointment! I know it’s hard, but it’s the right first step.
Oh ducky, im so proud of you! You got this and if you dont feel free to reach out.
I am so freaking proud of you. You've actually taken the single hardest step. You've got some hard work ahead of you, but you'll have a path. Please do check back in with us from time to time.
Getting the paperwork together and making the appointment are two HUGE wins when you are struggling with deep depression! I am so proud of you! That is the way forward: one step at a time with the support of your medical providers and a cheering squad of mother geese to help you celebrate the small wins. You are going to get through this. Big hugs!
Oh, duckling, I'm so proud of you, reaching out is hard, but it's so brave of you, and it's the best thing you can do for yourself. I'm cheering for you!