Depression

Hi Loulourose,

Welcome to my world, I have the same dilemma, I have been in the cycle since I was 17 and I am soon to be 42, I can fight to get myself back on track then something else happens and triggers another episode, my children are 11, 14 and 17 and they have seen my battle, but it hasn't noticeable effected them,  we have a very open and honest relationship, and through my battle I am teaching them should it (god forbid) happen to them how to battle it too.

They know how low I have been, they know it is a chemical imbalance and not something I am in control of, and that no matter what I will always battle because they are my world, and it actually makes them feel more important. I feel that it has brought us closer as a family, if they have a problem they can come to me, if their friends have a problems , they have became the agony aunts, who then come to me if it is something they feel no teenager should go through alone. Having my Mental illness has made me stronger and in many ways a better parent, because like you I was anxious that it would have a negative impact,  and I never wanted them to feel alone like I did, we are more like sisters, and yes often I am not the grown up, (because when I am on an up I can be a little hyper and naughty).

I have just played it that if I am down, and cant be bothered doing anything, I used to say "Hey how about having a movie day, or something that I knew I could cope with, just some special time for me and you, I don't want to share you today"

I found that helped, it sure took the stress of it away from me, you have also got to remember children are not judgemental about mental health.

Love Light and Peace x