I've never really had a problem self-disclosing and I am about to do it again.
A couple months ago I began seeing a counselor to discuss some issues I have been unable to deal with myself. She suggested I was deeply depressed and referred me to a psychiatrist. I met with him a few weeks ago and he prescribed anti-depressants for me. He said it could take 4-6 weeks to begin feeling any changes, but I have already started and it is great!
I haven't yelled at my kids or husband in a week (normally an every day occurrence). My patience levels are through the roof and I have actually been compassionate towards Heath during his illness. Normally I have no patience and I can't care for a sick person for more than a couple hours. I can't say that I am jubilant or 'happy,' but I am definitely noticing some improvements in my mood, energy level, and thoughts. I am so happy I decided to make this step towards mental health--and the improvement of my life and my family.
It wasn't fair to my children or to Heath that I couldn't give them a happy me. It wasn't right to treat them the way I had been. Heath has noticed the difference, and I know the girls have too. Kalyn and Keali both can't get enough of cuddling with me. There is a feeling of peace and love in our home now. Previously I have overheard Kalyn telling Keali that they need to be good so that "Mommy doesn't scream" at them. It broke my heart to hear that before and it horrifies me now to know that my children were scared of me.
I have to thank two people especially for helping me get to this point. Of course, Heath. He has been so supportive and compassionate. He has been recommending this for several years and I know he is happy I finally am doing something about it. Then my friend April, also encouraged me to do this. It has been life changing--literally! I hope to continue to improve myself.
3 comments:
You impress me with your courage and willingness to share this information about yourself. I'm glad you are much happier and calmer with your family and with life. May 2009 bring alot more smiles and love your way.
I agree with the above comment. You are helping countless others by sharing this. And I can relate and am SO HAPPY for you!
Hey Melissa! Thanks for sharing this. I think it's so great you've felt an improvement and found help. I've been there, too and it was so hard to ask for help. My depression was more situational but very real and scary. Anti-depressants helped me for a time as well as counseling. We had an Enrichment in my ward a few months ago all about depression, what it is, what to do. It was really great mostly because I think when we're depressed we feel so isolated and alone. It's very healing and encouraging to learn of others who've been there and to know you're not alone.
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