Quote:
Originally Posted by Answers48
I called my brother today. My brother and I are pretty close, actually, but when I told him that I felt suicidal this morning and what I am experiencing with clinical depression and generalized anxiety disorder, he was not helpful. His comments caused me to feel worse.  He kept saying what a "great life" I have and how I should appreciate it. I know that he was trying to help and expressing his own frustration with the stress of his own life in comparison to mine and just not understanding how I could be clinically depressed because I am married to the same wonderful man for 27 years, have 1 wonderful teenaged son and live in a nice house in a nice area. He kept talking about how people have it so much worse than I do.
I started to feel guilty listening to him and to get confused and anxious. So I handed the phone to my husband. Then later I emailed my brother, when I could collect my thoughts, and gave him some links to places online to learn about clinical depression and anxiety as illnesses. I also told him how his comments made me feel and that I still know he was trying to help, but it was not helpful.
Then I beat myself up a little for making a bad decision and going to him for support. I guess I didn't know how he'd respond for sure. Now I know. |
In his own uncomfortable and inexperienced way, he was trying to help you. Your right, he has no idea what your going thru. He thinks just a pep talk will fix you. Don't be hard on him or yourself for reaching out to him. You did right by sharing some links. I hope he takes the time to read them. A lot of people don't understand what depression is and think of it as a weakness or feeling sorry for ourselves. And a simple pep talk should make us feel better if we only remembered how lucky we are and what we have going for us. They only see a very small portion of the picture. It would be wise for you to remember that and not expect every one to be so understanding. At least it sounds like you get the support you need from your husband. Give your brother some time to educate himself
