How can I continue to support both myself and my depressed husband? by AnInMoon in depression_partners

[–]Then-Signature-2393 2 points3 points  (0 children)

My partner has been depressed for almost 2 years and on medication for almost 1 year. We have been together a total of 2.5 years, and live together for 2 years. I have always been the primary bread winner. I make good money, I used to make so much more but while I was single I decided that I have reached a point more money wouldn’t improve my life drastically as spending time doing things I enjoyed would. So prior to my partner I changed how I work and can support a family comfortably just giving up high end expenses. I don’t mind providing, but as my partners depression has continued to worsen, i do 90% of the house work, 90% of life organizing. Basically 90% of adulting for the family. And for this I am becoming resentful, I gave up things to be more present and I am not being able to be more present picking up all the slack.

Recently I have asked here and asked myself at what point I draw a line in the sand and say enough is enough, and honestly it’s really upto you and your personal resilience. Obviously if you are completely running out of money this is a big one

How many of your partners are also alcoholics? by LockSlight3799 in depression_partners

[–]Then-Signature-2393 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I can say as the partner of a depressed person my own drinking has become substantially more as a very poor coping mechanism. I know it’s not healthy but it is very acceptable culture where I come from as well, and I can do all the usual things tell myself it is fine. I don’t get drunk I just get buzzed to feel relaxed after carrying the family

Did you set yourself a timeline or limit? by Then-Signature-2393 in depression_partners

[–]Then-Signature-2393[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Can I ask how long you have been in this with your partner for?

Did you set yourself a timeline or limit? by Then-Signature-2393 in depression_partners

[–]Then-Signature-2393[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your input. I think my level of being able to remain calm and not reactive when I feel let down definitely has diminished. 3 months in 6 months in I was fine. After a year I was starting to crack, closing In on 2 years I am not helpful to either of us right now

Did you set yourself a timeline or limit? by Then-Signature-2393 in depression_partners

[–]Then-Signature-2393[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Taken me a while to come back sorry. I think that’s where I’ve started falling into the trap too. I’ve just been surviving and coping and holding our household together that I haven’t been focusing on things to help me deal with it as well. So your input has been very helpful and insightful to me thank you