[herbeth]

2/6/07 was hospitalized. 2 days I was unaware of what was happening. Prior to that no symptoms of depression. Diagnoised with psychotic breakdown/major depressive disorder. Returned home and was told to get psychiatrist within week. Returned also to home to care for 93 yr old mother without any support. Have been taking medication and going to therapy. Still caring for 94 yr old mother. Family doen't understand what I am going through. I have taken care of all my family for 40 years - now I need help and it isn't there. I am getting better but have a long way to go. Biggest problem is that I can't consentrate and short term memory is nil.
Anybody out there like me?
Herbeth

[Junerain]

I'm always doing for others....not always getting help when _I_ need it.....it hurts.........

I also was hospitalized with a psychotic breakdown......mine, the ramifications, I feel them still....

If family isn;t supportive, what about friends?

(((((((((((((((((Hugs)))))))))))))))))))))) i wish there was some way i could help you

[StarPonysMama]

((((((((herbeth))))))))

Wow, this hits home. Feel like I am headed this way too.................
Yes, there are those out there like you. I haven't even begun my life due to taking care of my mother - her always being co-dependent on me.

I hope things get better for you......and ME TOO!

[BalishBun]

I hope someone steps up and assists with you. Everyone always needs a little helping hand, if any.

[nothemama8]

herbeth, have you got a social service agency in your area that can help with your mom?
are there any other relatives to help?
Angie

[herbeth]

Thank you for your input. It's good to hear that I am not alone. Good luck! My additional problem is that I had a breakdown and have been told by my doctors that either I get help or put mother in a home because I can't handle it. I have gotten some help lately from Home Health, but that won't last forever, but maybe I'll be able to handle more after that time is up.

Thanks,
Herbeth

[herbeth]

Thank you for your support and especially that lovely poetry. I am now getting help from Home Health That is twice a week. I am getting better, but then worse. I can do more, but my depression is deeper and I now have panic attacks. I am praying that when Home Health is finished, I'll be strong enough to handle more.

Thanks,
Herbeth

[Rosette]

Hi I know how you feel my mother is 88 and I have 4 brothers and 1 sister that refuse to help with my mother. Most are moved out of the state so they dont have to deal. I have had this responsibility for 3 years now. I am to the point that I am throwing in the towel and getting another job because I cant deal with her negativity it is stressing me out and giving me anxiety and I am depressed. I feel guilty for being this way and she makes it worst by telling me she is going to die. I feel so mentally fatigued that I wish I could go to sleep and not wake up. I sleep 12 hours at a time and still dont want to wake up or get up. So believe me I have no one to turn to but some friends but what can they do but try and support me and it is difficult to depend on anyone.

[madisgram]

(((((((((herbeth))))))))) it is most important you care for yourself first, imho. otherwise you will be unable to help your mom. i'd give the family an ultimatum, help you or your mom will need to find other assistance. you need to take care of you first while recovering from the breakdown. you are fragile right now and that's ok. it will take time for you to feel restored. so glad you got help. keep us posted on how YOU are doing. we care about you and you matter to us.