Hi,
My mum is having depression since more than ten years. Her relapse of depression is getting worse as the times goes by... Her recent bouts of depression has been ongoing for the last six months. Medications doesn't seem to help her at all...Her medications cause more side effects than actually giving her recovery. The whole family, esp me is feeling the frustration. I do not know how to help her and sometimes I feel myself depressed as a result. There is hardly any stressors in her life or any precipitating factor that cause her lapses. Will thinking that her depression cannot be treated, I will be more able to cope with it? What can be a better way in treating her depression and keeping the side effect at bay and hoping for a speedy recovery?
Firstly - the caregivers of a patient with chronic depression can be very stressful, getting some form of assessment and help if necessary is very important. Some support groups for caregivers are available at SAMH Secondly - having chronic depression is terrible. Finding the right medication with least side effects is important - discussing this with a senior doctor is essential. Sometimes changing an antidepressant, or a combination of medication with psychotherapy is very useful. Once again - discussing with a senior doctor on your mother's chronic depression, the medications and your own caregiver's stress is very important.