[boncliffkennels]

As the holidays draw closer the more anxious I become. When I was a kid I loved the holidays but now that I am older and have kids of my own the holidays scare me. I get so damn depressed and even daily activities put a strain on me. I have an appointment with my primary care physician to restart my Cymbalta in hopes it will help with the depression. I hate taking medications but it seems I have no choice. What else can I do to help me cope and deal with life? I really need help but I don’t know where to turn! My wife had a stroke a few years ago so I am her primary caregiver and we have two kids I have to care for as well. It’s not like I can just go check into a hospital for treatment. I can barely leave my house anymore without taking my wife and/or kids with me. What works for others? What can I do that doesn’t require medications. I don’t think I can handle another year feeling nothing but depression and self loathing!

[Sunflower123]

I’m sorry you are having a tough time. Sounds like it’s a good idea to go back on Cymbalta at least through the holidays. I don’t have any advice right off the top of my head so I’m bumping this post up and hoping others do. Thinking of you.

[Sunflower123]

Do you have someone that can come in and help out with your wife and kids to give you a breather? What ages are your children? Do you think a therapist might help? Remember you have to take good care of you in order to take care of them.

Hi boncliffkennels,

It is no shame to use medication! People take medications for Diabetes and other physical disorders. Why can't we do the same? I was once very skeptical to medication. I became better when I gave in and accepted the pills. I'm not cured, but I live better with my depression with medication than without.

You know, the Holidays have so many expectations related to them, that many people find it difficult to live up to the standards they have set for themselves.

I use the lightbox every winter to lower my chances for SAD. I will start using it again in November.

If you have a friend or a relative who can give you a day or two off from all your burdens at home (it's difficult to raise children and to take care of a sick wife at the same time) that will hopefully give you some rest.

Please take it easy! Your home does not need to shine as a pearl. The most important is to have some sort of decoration, good food at the table and may be some gifts or the children. To destress yourself maybe you can wash all the clothes in good time before the Holidays. You can do the ironing some days before and line up all the clothes on chairs at least the day before. May be you can have some games ready for the children when you are to cook the dinner for the Holidays or may be they can watch a movie at TV that are appropriate for them.

About 6 to 10 deep breath down deep into your stomac now and then will help you to relax more.

Good Luck! Remember you are not alone!

[CepheidVariable]

Originally Posted by Jennifer 1967

Do you have someone that can come in and help out with your wife and kids to give you a breather? What ages are your children? Do you think a therapist might help? Remember you have to take good care of you in order to take care of them.

This is good advice. (Hi Jennifer ) Singer47 had lots of good stuff too.

I'd just add that there are other people to talk to: counsellors and support people in your community. I'm sure you know that just having someone to talk to can really help. If you haven't already, you might want to check out the "Partners of People & Caregivers Support" subforum here on PC.

If at all possible, try not to carry the load all yourself. Take care.

[markdl]

I can only echo what others have already suggested. This is a great place to come to for advice and a hug or two.

[Fuzzybear]