Depression that has killed our family- ideas?

Hi Lisa,

Your story is very similar to many stories and yes, the economy is just out of control. I share in your story as I too will be losing my job in about 3 months with nowhere to go. My house will be foreclosed on and not sure what the next step in life will be. I am very proud yet have found myself in that situational depression that is caused by the unknown. I finally went to the doctor as I am 34 years old and thought I was having a heart attack only to find out that I am having panic attacks.

This situation is tough for anyone, not just the older generation but this is seen for my generation also. Unemployment compensation doesn't even make the mortgage payment and even I am turned down for jobs daily. Please don't think it is only you, there are so many of us going through the same process. Family will be the strongest and most important thing right now. Yes, I know what it feels to go through the proud feeling that your husband is going through, but reality will set in quick and we must learn to let go of our egos for a job. I am optimistic that there is a brighter future but it may take some time to get there. Don't give up...tell him every day to not give up hope. Keep trying for those jobs, try to keep him busy with possibly learning a new skill...we are never too old to learn. I often made a joke, as I am currently working on a doctoral program that I will be standing in a window saying, "Welcome to McDonalds, my name is Dr. Cortes, may I take your order?" Unfortunately, we still have to survive and cover our basic necessities of life regardless of our ego.

I am not sure if this will help but perhaps knowing that your family is not the only one will help with a little more patience and understanding that this is a growing problem but with lots of love and understanding, the family is what will help us all get through the rough times.

I am sending you a hug so tight through the technology that has provided us the ability to talk. Keep the faith that there will be change. It may not happen overnight and there may be that period of the McDonalds stories but one day, there will be a period of time when you can say you made it through this. Please keep us posted.

Missie