Overwhelmed and feeling lost

[guest_011]

Im so tired of feeling overwhelmed! I'm a single mother of 1 boy and he has autism. He's only just started Primary school and its been a big transition for him. I can feel my depression is slowly coming back. i was on anti-depression meds for around a year and a half, ive never been entirely comfortable with taking medication, and i knew i would have to re-train myself to adjust without them, and learn other ways of coping.

One thing i cannot stand is the feeling of this horrible heavy-hearted/tightness in the middle of my chest, that along with the knots in my stomach is so relentless & persistent! its just to the point where i really cant stand it, and im starting to have suicidal thoughts. I dont think i'll ever act on them but its still scary and i just worry about how they'll manifest if i cant get on top of them quickly. I just want to be a good mother and find some sort of contentness in life again!

[Sophie_M]

Hey Nicole, 

Thanks for reaching out today. We can hear that life is quite stressful at the moment with your son starting primary school and your attempts to slowly come off your anti-depressants. Have you spoken to your GP about reducing your dosage? They'd be able to provide advice on how much to reduce and how often you should do so as well as what symptoms you might experience coming off the medication. 

Coming of anti-depressants can be a taxing experience so remember to be kind to yourself and practice self-care. Here are some self-care tips if you're interested: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/personal-best/pillar/supporting-yourself/why-you-should-do-something-f... 

We're sorry to hear you've been having thoughts of suicide. We would strongly recommend that you get in touch with Lifeline. Lifeline understands what it’s like to have thoughts about suicide and are here to listen and help you. They available anytime on 13 11 14 or you can visit their website for online chat.

Please keep checking in with us Nicole.

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

You are indeed a good mum. Your post says it.

I think you might like to capitalise on your time while your son is at school. When you return home take 20-30 minute sonly to relax but in particular proper relaxation techniques. Seek out your GP and he'll refer you to a professional that will teach you this.

In the meantime click on these and read just the first post of each

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/staying-well/meditation---words-of-wisdom---it-helped-me-for-25-years#qe4ivHHzvGGEbv8AAOnT_A

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/staying-well/medication-is-a-whirlpool#qgz2SHHzvGGEbv8AAOnT_A

Reply anytime

TonyWK