I was very depressed while raising my children. The meds I tried helped for a little while then quit so I ended up trying all the anti-depressants. I explained to my children that I was sad, but it was not their fault. Both my kids have had bouts of depression & went on medication & had therapy & are now fundtioning very well without meds or therapy. Sometimes you only need to take the meds for a year or so.

I've got bipolar (diagnosed finally 5 years ago) so I have to take mine all the time, but I've heard of many people who can take the anti-depressants & then get off them when they feel better. Some need to stay on them. It depends on the person. I think trying to find the right medication for you will really help, as well as therapy. You owe it to your child to get treatment, IMO. Take care.--Suzy