A long Sunday, but a good one

Kinja'd!!! "ImmoralMinority" (araimondo)
02/18/2018 at 23:17 • Filed to: None

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We drove to Malibu to see my son, who has been in a treatment facility for depression for 37 days, as we have every Sunday since he was admitted. This time we stayed after and they allowed us to take him out for lunch and ice cream. He is doing much better, like a different kid. He agreed to go to the high school closest to our house, rather than the one across town where his brother goes. I think a fresh start in a new place will help.

The good news is that he is likely to be released next Sunday, which we were all excited to hear. I feel good about trying to help him with intensive therapeutic support, something that might have made surviving middle school easier.

Every week when we go, we do a family therapy session, then a group session with all the kids (only 5 there right now). It can get pretty heavy, as some of these kids have been through a lot. It isn’t the easiest way to spend a Sunday (500 mile round trip), but it needs to be done. Next week will be even better, because he comes home.


DISCUSSION (14)


Kinja'd!!! CB > ImmoralMinority
02/18/2018 at 23:33

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I’m glad to hear. Sending my best to you guys.


Kinja'd!!! WilliamsSW > ImmoralMinority
02/18/2018 at 23:38

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That’s great news! So glad he’s getting the treatment and support he needs.


Kinja'd!!! shop-teacher > ImmoralMinority
02/18/2018 at 23:40

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That’s great to hear!


Kinja'd!!! Kiltedpadre > ImmoralMinority
02/18/2018 at 23:52

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That’s fantastic news that he will be coming home.

The fact that he knew he needed and asked to get help is wonderful. Most adults would be hard pressed to get to that point. I can see that level of self awareness being a major help with his continued treatment.

Hopefully he is able to find a good match with a therapist near home so he can continue to build on this success. I know oftentimes finding that proper fit is a difficult process in and of itself, but the benefits when the right therapist is found can be amazing.


Kinja'd!!! RallyWrench > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 00:24

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Wonderful news, glad he’s done well and is coming home. Any drive is worth it for that.


Kinja'd!!! Dogsatemypants > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 00:58

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That is good news. I hope things go well for him.


Kinja'd!!! Manwich - now Keto-Friendly > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 03:11

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Definitely worth it given the treatment is working.


Kinja'd!!! Tapas > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 03:36

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Depression can be a real bitch and rob a person of their personality, ambition and everything else.

I’m happy to hear that he’s doing well.

Tell him that there are random people online rooting for him too.


Kinja'd!!! pip bip - choose Corrour > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 03:56

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Depression is bad, good to hear he’s getting support.


Kinja'd!!! RallyDarkstrike - Fan of 2-cyl FIATs, Eastern Bloc & Kei cars > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 07:35

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Awesome news that he is coming home. :)

Depression is no joke!


Kinja'd!!! RacinBob > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 08:29

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Sorry to hear about your challenges. I will share some comments from my sister’s experience. Lithium treatment seems like one of the better options. My opinion was that it was one of the most effective things that helped her.

I would be wary of the drugs whose potential side effects are parkinson’s tremors. She ended up with tremors and they never went away. I don’t say don’t accept them, but I would certainly want a doctor that knew what he was doing with those drugs because they will mess you up.

One other thing is I learned that when she was irrational, just accept she is nuts. By that I mean, if she says she has to go to Des Moines to get married, don’t get into an argument about what boyfriend or what church. It won’t work. Deflect, destract, and accept that it is something compelling her. Obviously you don’t give the keys to the car, but don’t waste energy in arguing. I just didn’t see it productive to be trying to rationalize with an irrational person. 

Every depression is different, you will have to find your own way. I think the best strategy to build up his “mental hygiene”. I do believe that people suffering with depression in no way like it, but they do not know how to avoid it. My thinking is exercise and focussed activities help. Structured time helps.

Whatever you do, do not blame yourself. It happened to my sister and there were no indicators or causes. All you can do is accept the challenge and keep him on the tracks. good luck.


Kinja'd!!! Monkey B > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 09:20

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Here’s hoping for the best for you guys. I know the feels, my daughter has been in twice in the past 3 years though as an adult. It’s a hard place to see your kids, but helpful.


Kinja'd!!! My citroen won't start > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 09:36

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I’ve dealt with similar issues in my youth and to be quite honest still do today. Family support is always important when done right and not in a overbearing way.

I’m glad things are working out and he’s better. Keep at it, that’s great news!


Kinja'd!!! Duck Duck Grey Duck FTMFW! > ImmoralMinority
02/19/2018 at 13:42

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 Good to hear!