Brenda
54 years, Female | Alberta
“I felt constantly sad and angry, often spending most of my days in tears. When my husband came home from work, I would give him the baby and retreat to bed, sometimes due to migraines or simply feeling overwhelmed. My husband eventually urged me to see a doctor, concerned about my behavior. On the other hand, many people in my life urged me to toughen up and move on.”
I feel my mental health journey began in the early 90s, although I suspect I may have struggled with depression even earlier. After the birth of my second child, I found it hard to cope. I felt constantly sad and angry, often spending most of my days in tears. When my husband came home from work, I would give him the baby and retreat to bed, sometimes due to migraines or simply feeling overwhelmed. My husband eventually urged me to see a doctor, concerned about my behavior. On the other hand, many people in my life urged me to toughen up and move on.
The doctor diagnosed me with postpartum depression and prescribed medication but offered little additional support. While the pills helped somewhat, they didn't solve the underlying issue. Over the years, I tried various remedies including therapy, different medications, meditation, and even hospitalization, with limited success.
Recently, I sought help again for my persistent sadness. With grown children and grandchildren, I aspire to be a happier grandma for them. My doctor referred me to the local Primary Care Network, where I promptly saw a therapist. This support has been invaluable, equipping me with tools to navigate life's challenges and fulfill my desire to be a supportive presence. Although I wish I could see my mental health professional more frequently than once a month.
I am open with my children about my mental health journey, hoping to inspire and support them through their own struggles. However, I find it difficult to confide in other family members who tend to dismiss my experiences. I believe many of them also suffer from depression but are unwilling to seek help.
Throughout my journey, I faced barriers including recognizing I needed help and finding accessible support. While grateful for the assistance I receive, I wish mental health resources were more readily available.
Disclaimer: All names featured throughout this report have been changed to protect the identity of participants. These individuals were selected at random from a group of individuals that recently completed an online blind survey about mental health, and self-identified as having a mental health diagnosis. Participants were compensated financially for sharing their stories, with a commitment from MHRC to privacy and anonymity.
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