According to the National Institute of Mental Health, " Depression is caused by a combination of genetics, biological,environmental and psychological factors". Me I know some of the symptoms all to well. Diagnosed about 3 years ago with Depression and Anxiety I've been trying to live life day by day. Daily I experience feelings of worry, nervousness and unease especially about things I'm not in control of. I often experience feelings of loneliness even though I have people around me. I struggle with friendship/ relationships because when I feel alone others don't understand how to help me feel loved and not alone.
Aside from having troubles with friendships and relationships, I'm a mother to two amazing boys and it becomes difficult because both my children have each their own special needs. Johnny(LJ) was born at 30 weeks gestation and is now 5 years old. He suffers from Seperation Anxiety, Developmental Delay, ADHD, Severe Asthma, Sensory Processing Disorder, ASD and Generalized Anxiety. He also suffers with elevated CPK levels which causes him to have muscle weakness and recently diagnosed with GP6D Deficiency. I become very overwhelmed with worry, guilt as well as become very protective about where I take him or who comes around him. If you are sick I ban you from my home until you are well. Johnny also suffers in the Fall and Winter seasons with Upper Respiratory Infections as well as ear infections. My oldest son Andre suffers with ODD, ADHD, Generalized Anxiety and SLD. He has been put on medication to help manage his ADHD but at time his ODD becomes a problem for me and the school. I always worry that I will have to come to the school because Andre has gotten into a fight or altercation with an adult or student.
I've been asked as a mom dealing with a mental illness how do I tend to my family and the answer isn't always simple, but for the most part I put my boys first. I try and concentrate on their well being. In doing that it keeps me busy and it gives me something to concentrate on so I don't worry as much. I put them first which mean my needs are met last or sometimes not at all but to see my boys happy and blossoming makes me proud and gives me a sense of reward.
In those times where I have feelings of loneliness I found it helpful to blog, write, Facebook or tweet my Twitter followers. I have been told it is essential if you suffer the way I do to have an outlet because it can help soothe your feelings of being alone.
Lastly if you suffer from Depression or Anxiety like I do, finding someone to talk to like a therapist and or someone you trust helps with symptoms. Sometimes there is medication that a psychiatrist can prescribe to help with the unease and day to day struggles of Depression and Anxiety. If you or someone you know suffers with Depression and or Anxiety you can help by being a person whom they can talk to or someone that can help link them to professional help. Please don't turn your back and walk away for Depression and Anxiety are real illnesses!
