Am I in the Right Group?

[LoneSailor]

New to the group. Wife has has suffered from a serious panic and anxiety disorder for over 25 years. Now, depression has set in. I need to learn how to support her while having a life too. And her depression is making a dent in my life as well. So, am I in the right kind of group to help me learn how to support her while keeping my head above water ??

[Agora1]

Hi LoneSailor, yes you are in the right group. Most of us are here because of our

own issues but there are many who need to know how to keep themselves afloat

while supporting a loved one.

Either way, it's a difficult position to be in. We can hurt as well watching someone

go through the emotional and physical pain every day. After a while it starts to drain

the support person.

You will need to learn how to offer yourself some "me time" because if you don't

take care of "LoneSailor" than you will not be able to take care of anyone else.

We also need to realize that there is only so much we can do. We cannot change

their ways but we can change the way we react to the situation. Since your wife's

condition is chronic, have you talked with her doctors regarding medication and/or

therapy? A family counsel is always important to find out from a professional what

her prognosis is for ever reaching a full and satisfying life again.

It might not be a bad idea for you to see a therapist who can help you set a plan

in action for yourself. Right now it seems like you are both are just existing from day to

day. I'm glad you are here with us. You are certainly not alone. Welcome my friend xx

[LoneSailor in reply to Agora1]

Thanks for the kind thoughts and encouraging words. I really have a lot to learn here.

[Agora1 in reply to LoneSailor]

Not a day goes by LoneSailor, that I don't learn something new.

It's a great site xx

[Hidden]

I’m new too LoneSailor. My daughter suffers with depression and anxiety and it has paralyzed her. She is 21 and can’t move forward. It’s heartbreaking to see a loved one struggle so much.

I don’t have a lot of advice but one thing I know is that this illness can drain the life out of you so you need to make time for yourself. If you don’t you will not be any good to your wife. You both matter.

I’ll be praying for you too.

[LoneSailor in reply to Hidden]

Melinda... Thanks for the reply. Hope your daughter overcomes her situation soon. Age 21 is when she should be growing and developing relationships.

[Hidden]

Hey Lone,

I'm new here too. I've only been here a few days but I'm a writing fiend, and I'm describing how my depression is for me. It may give you some idea of what your wife might be feeling too. Actually we all write about what we go through, so you can get an idea of the wide spectrum of these conditions. And know that even though it can be scary and frustrating, there are ways to cope and heal. I've always found it good to write. I journal, but I mentioned that the journal doesn't write back, and here I feel like I'm really being heard. That has helped me greatly. You can vent, speak your mind in a safe environment here. With Love Always...AU

[LoneSailor in reply to Hidden]

Thanks, Author Unknown... I'll end up venting sooner or later. With no friends, it's difficult to keep it all locked up inside.

[Hidden in reply to LoneSailor]

Hey Lone,

Take your time, but please do start to write, if not here then in a journal, or your computer. I find that for me, writing here helps the best because I get feedback. You have to take everything with a grain of salt just like everything else but, for the most part, people try their best to support You're gonna be ok