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Depression, Disorders, Health, Housewife, Major depressive disorder, Mental health, Mood, Mother
There are so many people depressed and a good bit of these people are mothers, wives and young girls. Depression affects each person differently.
I am a stay at home mom and I some times feel depressed. It doesn’t last long but it is definitely bothersome. I get depressed when my kids are bad or when my husband treats me like I am stupid. I can actually feel pain when I am depressed. I get headaches, body aches and I want to sleep. I feel lethargic and I cry when no one is around. I have a lot going on in my life right now and no one to talk to about it so I can really feel the stress. I don’t think of suicide or any thing like that but a lot of people do when depression comes on.
Depressive disorders can make one feel exhausted, worthless, helpless and hopeless. Such negative thoughts and feelings make some people feel like giving up.
It is important to realize that these negative views are part of the depression and typically do not accurately reflect the actual circumstances.
A woman who already has problems with self-esteem, independence, autonomy, competition and commitment may have trouble with the added burden of not working and being at home with children.
Depression shows up in different forms in different people.
Some people cry a lot and feel sad. Others seem angry, irritable or anxious. For others, depression shows itself in vague physical problems like constipation, muscle aches and headaches.
Ask yourself if any of the following statements are true:
- I feel sad or down most of the time.
- I’ve lost interest in the activities I used to enjoy.
- I feel tired almost every day.
- I have problems sleeping. I sleep too much or I’m staying awake at night.
- My appetite has changed. I’m not eating enough or I’m eating too much.
- I have trouble concentrating.
- My friends say I’m acting differently. I’m either anxious and restless or lethargic.
- I feel worthless or hopeless.
- I have frequent headaches, stomach problems, muscle pain or back problems.
- I find myself thinking a lot about dying.
If you find yourself in the above list, you may be suffering from depression.
It’s important that you realize that depression is not a “phase” or just a bad mood.
Sometimes depression can be triggered by a change in lifestyle. If you’re a new mother, a newlywed or you’ve recently relocated or given up your career to stay home with your children, be aware of potential signs of depression.
While it may not go away on its own, there are some things you can do to help your recovery:
- Set realistic goals and assume a reasonable amount of responsibility.
- Break large tasks into small ones and set some priorities. Do what you can, as you can.
- Try to confide in someone and be among others, if possible.
- Participate in activities that you can.
- Mild exercise, going to a movie, and participating in religious, social or other activities at times may help in the short-term.
- Expect a gradual improvement in mood. Feeling better takes time. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see a marked improvement quickly.
- Postpone major decisions. Discuss major change with a professional who can be objective.
- Ask for help. Let someone else help you.
- Get professional help.
Find a therapist through recommendations from people you know who have had positive experience with a well-trained, licensed psychotherapists. Other sources may be universities, medical schools, community mental health centers, or an online resource such as 4Therapy.com or psychologytoday.com.
I hope this information helps and if you are depressed (even some times) go on the internet and read other people’s stories. It helps. You are not alone and you will be surprised how many other people feel the same way you do.
So many people are always so embarassed or ashamed that they suffer from depression, but its so common, and it really does effect every single aspect of your life. I’m really glad you posted this, alot of people don’t understand depression, and they’re suffering, and all it takes is for one person to say “hey, I’ve been there, I know what you’re going through, and it’s OK!”. Nice post!
It is okay to tell a trusted person about your problem (any problem). However, I want to say thank you for bringing up the issue on depression because it is, unfortunately, seen as dirty or taboo in this day and age. You are absolutely correct that depression affects anyone regardless of age, gender and social class. Depression can even affect the toughest and most cheerful person as well.
I’m hoping that just posting will help you feel a bit lighter. You are not alone.