I love my family

[Canadian Socialist]

This may seem like a tearjerker post, but please bear with me. I lost my job about a month ago. I had no savings, and couldn't collect employment insurance (I was considered self-employed). Anyway, I also suffer from major depression, which I had been able to control when everything was going okay. Unfortunately, with the loss of the job, it (depression) reared its ugly head. I was seriously considering suicide. I realised then, I needed help. So I emailed my brother and told him this. He was down from Edmonton like a shot. He got me into a doctor, had me given medication (at no cost to me - thank you Canada healthcare). I am now on "Income support for the Severely handicapped". It pays the rent and bills as well as covers my medical needs. After only two weeks on the anti-depressant, I feel well enough to go out there again. A side note, my mum & dad have paid my rent for the next two months. I really love my family.

[jpgray]

1. That's a nice story--my brother and I are quite close as well.

And you were concise too. :D

[Canadian Socialist]

2. Concise is good.

Did I mention the brother is 10 years younger than I? I'm 50 and he is 40, with the most beautiful, smart wife and a gorgeous daughter (11 months old) I have ever seen. Not that I'm prejudiced or anything.

[bliss_eternal]

3. That's wonderful!

I'm SO glad that you got the help you needed! Your family sounds terrific! Good for you!

So pleased to hear that you are feeling better, too!

:hi:

[obxhead]

4. Family values at its best.

Good for you!
I find it sad that Amerika can't even accomplish half of what Canada does for its citizens. Make the very best of the opportunities and life that your family and Country have given back to you. As you succeed, may you find some happiness in life.
Good Luck!!!

[Canadian Socialist]

5. Thank you so much obxhead

I feel a certain amount of superiority because we (Canadians) are so far ahead of the U.S. I don't wish that it were so, but it is.

[applegrove]

6. Those drugs are really great. I was never as depressed as you -

I just lost my ability to remember and learn new things when I was 25. They have truly amazing pills. Read up on the ones you are taking. I think NYorker has a great article on SSRIs in their archives.

Lots of web sites and discussion groups for people with depression.

Peace. Things are looking up. You'll do great. And yes - families are it all. (and be careful when you are adjusting doses - things can get bumpy).

Try volunteering to keep up and at it as you look for work. And so is a good country. And so are wonderful friends.

All my best.