jsue, I feel for you. I'm pretty sure my ex-boyfriend was bipolar. He was never officially dianosed because he refused to admit he had a problem and wouldn't talk to a doctor about it. He always says he just has "an extreme personality." He also said he would NEVER take medication because it would interfere with his creativity (he's a musician). When he was manic, I never knew what he would do next and when he was depressed, it was so painful for me to watch because I loved him so much and just wanted him to be happy. It hurts to see someone you love in SO much pain. He really believed that his pain was more intense than anyone else's and talking to a professional wouldn't do any good, because no one could possibly understand him. So, I finally had to admit to myself that I couldn't make him get help. That's a decision he will have to make for himself... and I hope he makes that decision some day.

I'm glad your husband can admit that he has depression. That's the first step. I wish he would get some professional help. Only he can make that decision, though. As someone who struggles with depression, I know how hopeless it makes me feel and there have been many times when I didn't feel like therapy or medication would help. Depression is a very painful, self-defeating disease. It's hard to reach out for help when you don't feel like it will do any good. I finally did get help, though, and it made a big, positive difference in my life.

Anyway, I wish I had a solution for you. I know what a horrible position you're in. ((((Hugs)))) to you and your husband. Depression is so painful -- both for those who are depressed and those who love them. My father suffers from depression too and he admits it, but he will not accept professional help -- therapy or medication. He just believes that's the way he is and nothing will change it. He also doesn't believe in taking any drugs. It's very hard on my mother when he's depressed.