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Severe Depression
16/F
My sister was recently diagnosed with severe depression. I mean, I knew she was a little depressed because she always came into my room to talk to me. I tried to cheer her up and it worked, but only for a little bit. We talked a lot and we're really close. I was terrified the other night because she made a suicide attempt and it scared me so badly. I didn't know what to do. At first, I just thought she did it because she was angry with my mom, who got after her for wiping a can lid on my face after I accidentally spilled some soup on her. However, the more I think about it, the more I realized that the diagnosis is right. It's making me feel so broken up and terrible. I tried to help her, really I did and now I don't really know what to do. It doesn't help that the doctors won't let me see her! I miss her my sister sooo much and it's interfering with everything in my life and I feel really crushed. Please, help!
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As someone who suffers from depression I feel I am somewhat qualified to speak on the subject.
There is a reason the doctors will not let you see your sister at the moment. This is temporary and will change as they uncover the underlying cause of her depression.
There are two main causes of depression: Chemical and environmental; with severe depression or manic depression as it is sometimes referred to, it can be caused by both. The chemical depression has to do with two chemicals in the brain not being secreted in enough quantity and is controlled through medication.
Depression caused by environmental factors is far harder to treat but begins by removing the patient from the environment that is the probable cause. With medication and talk therapy the underlying cause hopefully will come forward. Once it does, this is called the triggers, the doctors can work with your sister to realize what the triggers are to her depression and how to manage them.
For now the doctors are to some respect controlling your sister's life. As they get her depression under control; and she is not suicidal they will give her more control of her life and allow visitors as she is capable of handling.
For now you have to think of what is best for your sister as she is the one in trouble. I know it hurts and that you miss her. Give her time to heal and then with the doctors help you will get your sister back.
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Depending on whether your sister is the eldest or the youngest may matter as per her current state of mind.
Older usually involves more freedoms and liberties, but even more responsibilities, gradual concerns of life and the immediate future. As the younger sister, she may feel overwhelmed by the inabilities to being her own individual person without being criticized about her every little action.
Regardless, of age though, your sister may not feel important within your family as a whole or in life. "If" theres a problem concerning your mother and your sister or within the house, (given that its a proper facility...), the time away from the house, may be a start. She obviously is not trying to get away from you so don't take it toooo personally.
Was there an event in her life that triggered this "depression" of hers? If so, it may not be the greatest tactic to share her pain, even though you would like to alleviate it altogether.
Considering the attepmt on her on own life, she does need to be under the supervision of professionals.. for now. At least until a conclusion is presented or her problem is resolved.
As for you... you are not in need of any help. You are dealing with the situations that arise as best as possible. Besides, you knowing your sister prior to her current condition, ALREADY KNOW she would not like YOU to be too concerned to the point where YOUR own life falls apart. (I'm gathering that is the type of sisterhood you share). So, let this event conclude with you pulled together and her willingness to look beyond whats making her sad today.
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