Depression was the last thing I expected. I was a happy person wasn’t I? Happily married? two lovely children I adored? Yet a huge sadness was welling up inside me – I couldn’t get away from it!
When I finally got round to talking to someone about my feelings, it became clear- my marriage wasn’t happy after all, my partner didn’t love me and it was over.
I was given anti-depressants by my GP and saw a counsellor. The break-up dragged up feelings from earlier in my life. It all had to be faced and accepted.
Now, when I think back on that time, what helped me the most was time I spent with a friend. We would walk her dogs and talk-she would listen. I was able to explain exactly how I felt and what I thought were the causes of my sadness. She understood, I felt loved and supported by her. She spent time with me.
This precious resource, the time, love and support offered to me then was all I needed.
It is something we can offer to each other, something we can ask for when we need it.
One person’s story
