Hi ZyGirl,
I'm so sorry to hear about this difficult situation. While you may feel like a burden on your Mum, it's not really the case (and it's not your fault at all). I'm sure you're aware of this, but sometimes it can be hard to fully accept when you're in the midst of suffering and stress. If you don't mind me asking, are you at school still, or are you a bit older? Also, do you regularly see the doctor who prescribes your medication?
I'm 23, and have relied on my parents (especially my Mum) a lot over the years. I still only have my L plates, so Mum drives me places. However, I don't have paid work and I catch the bus to university (as my family and I live close to the city), so it's generally not too inconvenient.
I became home-bound for weeks at a time in 2012 (at the age of 19) due to an atypical eating disorder (and other mental health symptoms). I went to hospital in mid-2012 (a planned voluntary admission), and ended up staying there for 2 months rather than the expected 2 weeks. During 2013 I was recovering, and only studied two uni subjects that year. Next week I will finally finish my psychology degree, which I'm excited about. When I was severely underweight and mentally unwell in hospital four years ago, my parents honestly didn't know whether I would recover from the condition I was in. Even now they tell me how grateful they are for my recovery.
Though I caused a lot of stress for my parents and younger sister, me being well now is the reward at the end. If you can, try to think of your chronic depression in this way. Though you're very unwell now, with the much-deserved support from your Mum and from medical professionals, you can start to recover. In the future, when your mental health is improving (or has improved), you can express your gratitude to your Mum.
If you would like to talk further about your situation, you are very welcome to post back here whenever you like 🙂
Best wishes,
Zeal
