My depression started shortly after I had my first child. I was extremely weepy and had incredible up-and-down mood swings. For approximately a year, I went on feeling this way, and every day I seemed to become more irritable and edgy.
My biggest problem was admitting something was wrong. In my mind I felt like such a failure and weak, not being able to handle my life situations. Having a baby had changed our lives and I had a very hard time accepting the baby. I almost felt he was better off with out me. I never felt I would harm my child, but I did want to harm myself.
Finally, my husband made me a doctor’s appointment and insisted I go. My husband told the doctors what was going on with me because he knew I wouldn't be honest with my doctor.
I enrolled in counseling and started taking medications. Within a month I had noticed an incredible difference in my moods, energy levels and confidence. I have been on medication for about 10 months now and would like to work with my doctor to gradually start reducing my dosage.
My point is that people who have depression should not feel weak or like a failure. I have learned that depression in a disease, not something that you can control on your own!!