Discussion
Dealing with depression
Posted 7/29/08 10:15 PM
Dealing with depression
My husband has been rather depressed lately. I think he's tired of working (and I don't blame him) and I have a feeling he's a little bored with his day-to-day routine. I'm trying to help by being loving and supportive. I've even surprised him a few times with special dates and gifts. We have a really great relationships, and it pains me to see him like this.
I've suggested that maybe it might be beneficial to speak with a therapist or see his doctor. He's hesitant. I want to be sure to nip this in the bud before it gets out of control for him and for our relationship.
What should I do? Anyone else have spouses who are struggling with depression?
Posted 09/27/08 7:41 AM
Dealing with Depression
Depression is not like a cold. It can take longer to get over than having gall bladder problems. There is no one magical word, deed, or pill. Having seen a lot of depression over the years, in others as well as in myself, here are some suggestions:
1. See a Psychotherapist - Therapy & medication can be very helpful.
2. Use relaxation therapy music for increasing sleep and decreasing anxiety.
3. Work in the garden, yard, plant a tree, flowers, use the flower pots freely if space is available. Get your hands dirty. There is power in Mother Earth and it can be very balancing and healing.
4. Exercise for at least 40 minutes a day, starting with walking. Don't be in a race, but don't fall asleep walking either.
5. Get nutritional information from your doctor.
6. Return to or improve your religious thoughts and act on them.
7. Drink water, not soda.
8. Smile more.
9. Laugh. Watch comedies that make you laugh. Find people that make you laugh.
10. Give thanks, be thankful, and share good thoughts with others.
11. When in a relationship, add something new and positive to your routine. Go away for the weekend to a bed and breakfast.
12. Stay away from drugs and alcohol.
Posted 08/03/08 9:37 AM
Yep!
I have dealt with it personally. My children have dealt with it My spouses and my present signifcant guy have dealt with it.
I am an MSW trained in psychology, sociology, family relations, etc. I find that medications can help but one must also work on the "root" of the problem through psychotherapy (individual and/or group). Other things like making sure that something physical is causing or contributing to the depression is a good idea. I have low thyroid and if I don't take synthroid every day that can also add to the possibility o depression.
Many people who come from families where alcoholism is present are also prone to depression. That has been true in my case and in the case of everyone I know who has dealt with depression, Any disfunctional family is a good breeding ground for depression.
Lacking in certain vitamins particularly the B vitamins can contribute to drepression and other mental problems. Body chemistry is usually out of whack. I don't know if the depression causes it or the chemistry causes it or both. But they are related.
There is a lot of information on the internet regarding depression. You can google "depression" and get a ton of stuff. Educate yourself and your spouse.
Try what works and what you are open to.
I am presently on a low dose of a generic for Zoloft and it seems to help but like I say, it takes working on more areas than just taking medication.
They say that depression is anger turned inward. One has to be willing to take a look at that possibility. :)
Good luck to you and your husband.
Brenda
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