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Friday, December 3, 2010

depression.

I have been struggling. I am definitely a "tell it like it is" person, and have wanted to talk about it...but just haven't had time to sit and gather my thoughts.


At the end of my pregnancy with Vin, I was extremely depressed. I had Vin...it went away...for awhile. Then gradually I started feeling depressed again. It was scary for me, but I think it scared Paul more. It scared Paul so badly that he made me call the Doctor, and while making that phone call I cried trying to tell them I needed to come in sooner than later. Not one of my finer moments.

I got drugs.

I debated on whether to take them...and then I did it.

I started on antidepressants.

I started off by not wanting to tell anyone, and I still haven't told everyone (hi, sista!). I was a little embarassed that I needed "help" to get out of my baby blues. I then did what I do best...I joked about it, and made fun of myself for it. Then I went through "Oh, I am just fine", and went off of them. Then I went crazy again, and Paul lovingly asked me if I had stopped taking them. =) Now I am back to being someone I love...for the most part!

and guess what?

It's the Best. Thing. I. Have. Done.

I guess this is just another lesson of never say never.

22 comments:

Emily said...

I'm with you. Never. Say. Never. I am glad my Evonne is back. I have missed her. I say "yay" for antidepressants.

AubreyMo said...

I AM SO FRIGGIN PROUD OF YOU!!

Depression and anxiety runs on my family and a large portion of the people that I love have benefited from medical help. I don't think it's anything to be ashamed about that you knew you needed help and asked for it. You can't control your hormones, love. Nobody can. And pre/post baby hormones are a funky thing. (sometimes being a girl is so weird.)

Seriously so happy for you!

Tiffany said...

I'm right there with you, I've learned I have to stay on my medication no matter how good I feel.

Heather said...

It's hard to admit that we may need help in that way. I know I suffered for way too long without any help. I am glad that you are doing better now.

((Hugs))

Cal said...

I am very proud of you. It is hard to admit because we think that it is so bad, but it's not. You inspire me and I am sure many more people appreciate your honesty as well.
I love my happy pills

dust and kam said...

Depression is hard.

So glad you are feeling more yourself!

Kristina P. said...

There is nothing shameful about medication. Nothing. I'm thinking of you!

kendahl a. said...

I'm right there with you, hun! Clinical depression runs in my family. I have my good days and my bad days. And I don't always take my medication.

But there are days... days I just plain would not make it through if it weren't for the pills. I know they help, even if other people think it's all in my head.

I'm glad you found something to help you back to the Von we all know and love. :)

Jerilee E. said...

Agreed- I say we do what needs to be done so that we can be the best we can be. I used anti-depressants after 3 of my 5 kids births... maybe 4... it all runs together ;). I know for a fact that I would have been a useless wife and mother during those times without medication.

The Newmans said...

I can one up you! I take an antidepressant and I see a counselor...take THAT! :)

The most important this is to take care of yourself so you can take care of your family. I am a much better wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and employee when I take that little white pill everyday. I was ashamed of it at first but I'm not anymore.

You go girl! Look how many of us stand behind and beside you!!

Kalli said...

you're a rockstar, do your thing. Meds are the new awesome don't you know?

Steph said...

You are my awesome friend that I love. Nothing to be ashamed of.

Kimberly said...

It's a lot more common than you think. I had bad PPD with both of my kids. My first, I went off my drugs because I didn't want any sort of side affect with my baby. I struggled through every day. I didn't even enjoy the newborn days. I was a zombie and a robot. Sadly, I don't even remember his baby days. My second, I stayed with my drugs and webt through a short few days of PPD and then ta-da, I feel all better and love every moment with my babies. Drugs = me happy, so drugs it is. Nothing to be ashamed of, girl!

Michelle said...

It is hard to admit you need something, but I'm all for if it makes you feel like a human again, go for it. I've been on antidepressants for most of the last 12 years and I love that I'm the Michelle I want to be instead of who the brain chemicals make me be.

Nicole said...

Depression is really, really tough. I have been struggling with clinical depression for 15 years. Been on more meds than I can count, and have seen several therapists. It's tough to swallow your pride and walk in the door, but life definitely feels better once you get the "help" you need.

Also, blogging about depression has been a tough thing for me to publicize, but I've had amazing support from my readers as I've shared my struggles. I hope you feel the same support I've experienced.

Unknown said...

that is why they make the drugs for people like us who need a little extra pick me up! When I am grumpy or not a nice mommy Anika will ask me if I have taken my happy pills! :)

Mrs. O said...

Yes, never say never. About anything. I wish I would learn this lesson already.

I am glad you are feeling better.

Cranberryfries said...

It's hard to understand things until you're faced with it. I'm a fan of things that help us get back to feeling like ourselves. How wonderful you have such a supportive, amazing husband who loved you and helped you understand you didnt have to stay depressed!

Kings said...

woot woot for happy evonne :)

Emily Christine said...

So proud of you. Nothing to be ashamed of. Love you so much!

Unknown said...

It is really upsetting to me when people act like postpardom depression or any depression for that matter isn't real...IT SOOO IS and by you taking action shows what a good Mother, Wife, and Person you are!! Thanks for speaking up, you are awesome!

Jenni and Chad Stewart said...

There's nothing wrong with that! It would be more wrong NOT to take care of yourself. :)