Anthony's Story
Anthony, a husband and father, shares his experiences being hospitalized for depression and how he was able to get his life back on track.
"Depression is a liar, it will tell you things that are not true. You have purpose and you will recover".
About Anthony:
I am a husband, a father, and I am beginning to start a men’s movement here is the USA to coach groups of men to learn more about depression and anxiety. Men need to learn that suppression and isolation are hurting our development and this can lead to depression.
WHAT WAS THE MAJOR TURNING POINT IN YOUR RECOVERY FROM DEPRESSION?
I would say that being hospitalized for a week began the turn around. I was very scared to check in that day. If you are reading this and you have all these ideas about the hospital, it can be the change you need! I know it’s scary! I did it! I look back on it as a necessity to my recovery.
While in the hospital the Dr’s found the right medication for me. Being on the medication for 5-6 weeks really helped. Sometimes the first medication won’t be right for you. It can be a pain, but it’s part of this process.
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT REALLY HELPED?
- Medications
- Talk Therapy
- Hospital Time
- Staying off Google and reviewing everything
- Sleeping well
- Learning to express my emotions
- Walking
- B Vitamins
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER GUYS FIGHTING DEPRESSION?
Yes, you are in a fight! And the challenge is with yourself. Depression is a liar, it will tell you things that are not true. You have purpose and you will recover! As much as you want it to be over, depression recovery takes time. It’s awful and every day can be a struggle to get out of bed or leave the house. The key is getting help early and talking to someone that can help (as hard as that can be).
– Anthony, father, husband, and mental health advocate, based in Wayne, New Jersey, USA.