hi all, I'm writing this just to get ease of mind really, my dad has just told me he has depression and it scares the hell out of me (I'm a big daddy's girl), he did say he is getting help but currently it's not working for him, i told him to maybe get reassessed, but I'm scared out of my mind that i might lose him as you hear stories all the time about people with depression ending things themselves. i just wish i could help more but i live in a different state and it's hard to get home to see the family with a young family of my own. So i don't really know if i am asking anything just want to know he is doing the right thing by getting the help and what happens from here as i have never had to deal with anyone with depression before. And is there anything i can do being so far away from him to help out
thanks
scared to lose my dad
scared to lose my dad
Posted in:
Mental Health, Anxiety & Depression
3 Replies
Not all people with depression are suicidal or develop desires to suicide. Your Dad is seeking help so that's a really good sign and he is talking about it. It can take a while to get the right medication etc. I know this is easier said than done but don't let yourself become terrified because it won't do either of you any good. Beyond blue has an excellent website and is an excellent resource.
Depending on how severe the depression is, an whether this would be something he would usually readily admit, this could be that cry for help, support an connection. I don't know how you could offer support from a different state other than phone calls, but as looking back on my depression times, the only thing that helped me was having my dad around almost all the time, helping me to cope with daily activities, if it weren't for him hearing my cry for help an realising how serious it was, I wouldn't be here today.
I think all you can do is be supportive. I suffer pnd and it's been one hell of a ride. I've had many low moments when I just wanted to give up but the support of my family have helped me get through it. Dose he have any support around him? Are u able to go visit him for a few weeks?