Living with someone with depression

Many thanks to everybody who has responded. It's helps to know there are people out there who understand the situation. DP now signed off for four more weeks! His work will try and find him less pressured role. He is not drinking at the moment so the mood swings seem less. He is going to try and get some counselling via work which may help. He seems quite bright this week but the nasty part of me thinks he just likes the idea of 4 more weeks off work! ( He is quite lazy generally). He did seem somewhat confused at the weekend but I think he was not drinking enough water. When I mentioned the confusion he rushed off to Google early onset dementia!
My thoughts are with all of you who are going through this or have had to deal with depression in the past . Thanks again for your support.

I am glad he is not drinking at present - did he tell the GP about this problem? I hope that there will be light at the end of the tunnel for you soon.

So hard for you seasider
I was talking to someone yesterday about her ex and the effect her had on her and her children and said I didn't know many women who hadn't have to cope with depressed husbands/partners! Now I've been trying to count up the ones who seem ok!! Is it an age thing? Do they hit 40 and fall apart? And they have to be dragged to the doctor and/or counsellor. Sorry probably not helpful but I suddenly felt really cross about it, for you and all the other women out there having to tiptoe around miserable grumpy men.

My youngest son (as an adult) had depression. When he was still living with me (he has moved out now), I found that it would be me who he took it out on. He has said some very unkind things to me in the past, although he would later one be so sorry and upset with himself for taking his anger/frustration/depression out on me. He actually bought me a book which I found very helpful - "Living with a black dog" by Matthew Johnstone. I hope this helps, as it can be just as painful and upsetting for whoever is living with someone who has depression.

Exercise. Regular exercise can be as effective at treating depression as medication. ...
Nutrition. Eating well is important for both your physical and mental health. ...
Sleep. Sleep has a strong effect on mood

You're most certainly not alone Seasider. I too have the t-shirt. I was lucky when DH was at his worst as I was working at a mental health charity so had loads of support. Do ask your GP for details of support groups in your area as, besides supporting you, they can also advise on how to best handle situations and help you help him.

For my DH counselling worked best, but the Black Dog has never left completely and is still lurks occasionally behind his heels. (especially in January!)