Many moms struggle with the silent life-zapper – full-blown depression.
And while some critics may dismiss depression as simply a “bad day” or tell tired moms to just “get over it” – these statements can often make depression worse.
If you are a married woman who struggles with depression, you may not know just how big a part your spouse can play in your recovery.
Often described as the “black dog” that lingers in the shadows with no sign of letting up, depression is a serious disorder that affects each person differently.
Some women can’t eat. Other women choose to binge eat, and pack on unwanted pounds.
From too much caffeine, to sleeping all the time, depression changes the way we live our lives.
Activities that once brought so much joy are dull.
And being around other people? Forget it.
Some moms have even confessed it has gotten so bad, they aren’t able to be there for their kids as they’d hoped.
And while some women do need medication, and deep intense therapy, others simply need time to recharge and restart, with a supportive environment.
Enter in your loving spouse.
When your husband said those vows, he said for better or worse.
And that means, even when you feel like you have nothing to give your family, his guiding force can point you back to the truth.
If your husband lovingly enters into your pain and helps you through this time, your marriage is bound to become even stronger.
Having someone there who can listen to you without judgement, and support you while you are in a slump is a critical part in helping overcome depression.
One wife recalls the day she hit rock-bottom, and how the kindness of her husband helped her through.
She tells the story of how things got so bad one day, her husband had to come home from work to take care of the kids, while she just laid in bed.
When she emerged from her bed a few days later, she tells the story of what was awaiting her.
Scary Mommy reported:
“Small yellow sticky notes were stuck to the wall. They were everywhere. The entire hallway was lined from top to bottom with small notes. I began to read them.
“You are not a burden.”
“You matter.”
“You are wanted.”
“You are enough.”
“I’m so glad you’re here.”
“You make my life better just by being in it.”
“No matter how dark your days are, I’m here for you.”
“I love you.”
“I’ll give you time and I’ll be here when you’re ready.”
The wife mentioned how she began to sob with relief, knowing her husband loved her at her darkest.
He didn’t pressure her or shame her.
He was simply there, waiting for her patiently, and holding down the fort.
In contrast, if you have a husband who puts you down and dismisses your pain, your bound to be worse.
He may not understand depression, but he should understand you, and realize you are not like your normal self!
So moms, we are sorry if you are going through a difficult season. Know you are not alone, and reach out to your husband for support, or another close confidant.
Moms, have you ever struggled with depression before?
What did you do to help you overcome such sadness?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
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