Men and depression

[stacii]

Ever since we started dating my husband has been a great source of strength for me. He has been a strong shoulder to cry on and a comfort for me when I am struggling. His emotions have always been in check and sturdy and he's always very relaxed. He played a big part in bringing me closer to God, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Several weeks ago he started complaining of chest pains. Of course I was alarmed and we went to the doctor and he was fine. Since then he's been sick to his stomach and continues to have the pains. In addition, he seems to be feeling empty inside and really really down. I'm worried that he is depressed, but since male depression is so different from female depression, I was hoping someone could give me some insight. Keep in mind he has been working ridiculously long hours for a company that he is starting to resent...

Also, what can I do as his wife to help him? I want him to know that I am here for him whenever he needs me, and that he is such a priority to me. However, I want to be respectful to him and I don't want him to think that this makes me look at him as weak or anything.

This is my husband...I love him so much and it breaks my heart into a million pieces to see him suffer. We are supposed to go to a doctor next week to talk about it, but I need to know how to make the next few days a little happier for both of us. I am more scared now than I was when I was depressed....

 

[catlover]

Ever since we started dating my husband has been a great source of strength for me. He has been a strong shoulder to cry on and a comfort for me when I am struggling. His emotions have always been in check and sturdy and he's always very relaxed. He played a big part in bringing me closer to God, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Several weeks ago he started complaining of chest pains. Of course I was alarmed and we went to the doctor and he was fine. Since then he's been sick to his stomach and continues to have the pains. In addition, he seems to be feeling empty inside and really really down. I'm worried that he is depressed, but since male depression is so different from female depression, I was hoping someone could give me some insight. Keep in mind he has been working ridiculously long hours for a company that he is starting to resent...

Also, what can I do as his wife to help him? I want him to know that I am here for him whenever he needs me, and that he is such a priority to me. However, I want to be respectful to him and I don't want him to think that this makes me look at him as weak or anything.

This is my husband...I love him so much and it breaks my heart into a million pieces to see him suffer. We are supposed to go to a doctor next week to talk about it, but I need to know how to make the next few days a little happier for both of us. I am more scared now than I was when I was depressed....

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/male-depression/MC00041

You may want to print this article out and leave it in a place where your husband will see it.

 

[AWorkInProgress]

I like the article. Definately you share it with him.

Pride is usually the key problem for guys or atleast it was for me. Man has internal warrior pride in them, and to admit they have a problem is like being defeated. I am sure he knows that he is your pillar of strength, and is trying to hold himself up.

What I learned was sometimes I have to weigh the situation and realize that I can't fight this battle alone. This is humility, what God loves most. He is going need help to overcome this, just as you needed him to overcome your overcome your problems.

2 Chronicles 7:14
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

Think it's repeated in New testiment too.

As I was telling Jbug last night, really don't build one's faith until the rain comes. I know this is constantly true for myself.

About your worries, I want you to take them and focus them to God. All you can do is be there for him and giving him information, other than that there is nothing you can do about this. God can do anything, you need to give these worries and fears to God and let him do his work.

Phillippians 4:6-7
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Phillippians is an awesome book, definately read it and meditate on it. It will help you beyond this situation.