I am in my late sixties, and I have been dealing with depression for a very long time. My first serious experience with it occurred around 2001. That was the year I quit my job due to ongoing health challenges, and started feeling an emptiness that has never really left me. Currently, there are days when I lie in bed for hours, because I do not want to get up. The darkness is often consuming. Some days I contemplate suicide.
However, the support from my family and close friends helps keep me going and helps give me hope. If there is one thing I am proud of, it’s that I worked very hard for 20 years to provide for my family. I have a wife and two sons who love me very much and care for me deeply.
Recently, I was prescribed a new medication for my depression and I’m hoping that it will begin to make a difference. I am confident I will overcome my depression, because I have hope. I also have trust in the treatment options available to me. I know that if I follow through with taking my medication, I will eventually start to feel better.
I am sharing my story, because my generation never used to talk about mental health all that much. People used to tell me to “suck it up” “get back to work” and give me other well-intentioned, but misguided advice.
I am sharing my story, because I want people to know that depression can affect anyone, young and old. If you are experiencing a mental health issue: talk to your doctor, talk to your family and friends and get the help you need. There is no shame in acknowledging your depression, no matter what your age. Depression impacts us all in some way.
I am sharing my story, because I am also proud to see I have raised two sons who understand the importance of giving back to their community. Their support and encouragement help me to take steps to improve my condition. I’ve found engaging in physical activity and exercise to be particularly useful.
Writing about my depression has not been easy. But I feel a bit lighter after writing this. I hope my story makes a positive difference in someone else’s life. Even if one person reads it and is encouraged to keep fighting, it will be worth it.
To anyone reading this, I wish to assure you that you are never alone! Other people are experiencing depression and battling with their own mental health issues. We all understand what you are going through. Together with the right treatment, and the right support systems, things can start to get better. I have faith that together we can overcome our challenges.