Depression Supporters Support Group
This community is dedicated to spouses, children, relatives, co-workers and others who are actively supporting someone suffering from depression or other serious mental illness. Depression can bring about intense sadness, melancholia or despair that has advanced to the point of being disruptive, which can have a grave impact on the ability of others trying to help.
I've heard people say it but never truly understood until now how depression can be "contagious". I think I've been spreading myself too thin lately. With grad school, my fiances depression, and keeping up with cleaning the apartment, I found that I'm breaking down. I've been extremely stressed out lately. I find myself crying way more then usual. I was just thinking last night I'm not feeling like myself. I'm completely overwhelmed.
And then.... This morning i got this huge hurdle in school that will cost me thousands of dollars and might have to leave my fiance for three months to go work out of state. I pleaded with them that he couldn't be alone. They don't understand what I go through everyday behind the scenes. Unfortunately, they know now. I keep a very professional appearance at school and try to stay positive, but every night I come home to help my fiance beat his depression and anxiety. It's draining. Now that I have to deal with another thing, I don't know how I'm going to make it. I don't know how I'm going to be able to leave him for that long.
And then.... This morning i got this huge hurdle in school that will cost me thousands of dollars and might have to leave my fiance for three months to go work out of state. I pleaded with them that he couldn't be alone. They don't understand what I go through everyday behind the scenes. Unfortunately, they know now. I keep a very professional appearance at school and try to stay positive, but every night I come home to help my fiance beat his depression and anxiety. It's draining. Now that I have to deal with another thing, I don't know how I'm going to make it. I don't know how I'm going to be able to leave him for that long.
Depression is not contagious, but yes it is very very draining and stressful. I went through the same thing with my wife. Go see a doctor, and discuss your symptoms. The stress of helping a spouse with depression can make you sick. A low does of a general anxiety med could sort you out. But you'll also need some extra support from family, and try couples therapy (and get him into therapy if he isn't already). It makes a huge difference. Consider a therapist for yourself as well.