I am 66 years old and have suffered from chronic depression all of my life. Unfortunately, I was not diagnosed until I was in my early 50's. My parents never believed in therapy of psychiatrists. Once the diagnosis was made, and the right medication found, I was in control for the first time! It is hard to put into words the difference it made for me. I underwent about five years of therapy; however, my psychiatrist said that my depression was definitely a chemical imbalance. (He was sure of this because my first attempt at suicide was when I was ten years old.)
I'll be on medication for the rest of my life, but it is a small price to pay for how much I enjoy life now. My cup is always half full (and sometimes brimming)! Before I was extremely irritable, cried very easily, and as my daughter said "I just lost it frequently". She often comments about "Mom before medication." I never knew how much it affected her. An example I like to use is -- Before medication if I dropped a glass of milk, I would sit down and cry. Now, if a drop a glass of milk I might say a swear word , but I just clean it up and go on with my life!
I hope I can help other people with depression. Depression is loosing the stigma it used to have, but I know there are still many people that feel you should "pull yourself up by your bootstraps and get on with it". (My mother's favorite saying.) Unfortunately, that's often not possible. I have already helped my brother realize that he, too, had depression, and his wife says that he is a wonderful husband now that he is on medication.
All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.
Add a Comment1 Comments
Congratulations on your journey through recovery.
I am very interested in learning more about your story, and your helpful advice for other women and their loved ones going through depression.
A few questions come to mind:
1. You mentioned that your parents did not believe in therapy, and you did not seek treatment until you were in your 50's. Assuming you did not live with your parents after the age of 25, what happened in those 25 years between you being under your parent's house (and financial control) vs. living on your own and realizing you needed to seek help. What held you back for so long, from seeking therapy, and then what was the catalyst for seeking help in your 50s?
2. Depression effects everyone differently, yet there are many similar symptoms that people with depression suffer from. What were your particular signs and symptoms of depression, from the age of 10 to 50?
3. What words of advice do you have for loved ones who are living with a person who is suffering with depression? What can they do (or not do) to help their family or friends get the help and support they need?
Thanks for sharing your powerful and inspiring story!
August 17, 2008 - 7:59pmThis Comment