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Can I deal with a broken heart on top of depression?

4 replies

LIttleDebs · 13/03/2015 14:09

Hi, I only visit mumsnet occasionally but tbh I'm so in need of extra support. Just need virtual hugs really and any positive advice (please be kind)!
Brief history - Ex hb left in early 2013 after years of a poor marriage (2 gorgeous dds 10 and 7). I Was retraining to teach. I graduated in May 2013 despite lots of stress and took a ta job last year as a stepping stone (the girls were used to me being a sahm). Felt quite confident at the time, moving on etc. Quite stressful but felt able to apply for ft teaching job and got one from sep 2014. However since then I've found everything too stressful. It came to a head in dec and I've been off sick since with anxiety and depression, on Citalopram (just moved from 20 to 30mg).
Anyway out of the blue I met a wonderful man in May last year. He's a single dad and although logistically it's been hard we fell in love quite early on. He's the most wonderful person I've ever met. He's been in the uk for 8 years and very well educated but has gradually become disillusioned with his life here- especially his job prospects.
A few weeks ago he decided the only thing to do is to go back home to Africa. He's told me he's leaving by the end of the month. He's gutted but feels his options have dried up.
I'm devastated. I'm in denial he's going at the moment and trying desperately to convince him to stay. I'm also really worried that if/when he does go I just can not deal with any more heartache and stress Sad on top of the depression I'm already battling.
Sorry for the long post but wanted to give context etc x

OP posts:
Lottapianos · 13/03/2015 14:14

Oh Debs, you can most definitely have a huge hug! I feel for you very much, as a fellow anxiety and depression sufferer. Life feels like such a full plate at the very best of times, but the very sad news about your partner's decision must feel totally overwhelming.

My advice is probably really not what you want to hear, and I wish I had something more positive for you, but I'm afraid you need to let him go. If he has made his mind up, there's no way you can make him stay. I had this years ago with a boyfriend, he moved back to NZ and I was totally heartbroken. This won't make any sense right now, but you coped brilliantly with a very challenging life before you met him, and you will most definitely cope brilliantly again. That's not to undermine how painful all of this is for you right now.

Do you have friends/family members you can lean on right now? Don't be afraid to ask people for help with practical help - looking after the kids etc, so you can spend time by yourself if you need to. I'm so sorry you're in this situation x

LIttleDebs · 13/03/2015 14:25

Thanks so much Lottapianos. I know you're making a lot of sense - it's just that my heads saying one thing and my heart's saying 'no there's no way you are letting this amazing man go!' (esp after being so downtrodden for so long). I know I need to let him make his own mind up but I'm worried he's not really thinking straight himself - he's only just had his latest course rejection and it may partly be a knee jerk reaction.. I can't seem to get through to him but I know he's also devastated to be leaving me behind Sad.
I have got some brilliant friends and family but I don't feel able to confide in my mum ATM (they have never had the chance to meet him although they know about him). I'm seeing my sister tonight so I might tell her. I'm just so scared as I know how far down I might go once he's left. Do you think it's a good idea to stay in touch? It's one of the many things be suggested to him..
Thanks again xxx

OP posts:
Lottapianos · 13/03/2015 14:29

I didn't stay in touch with my ex and I have no regrets. Do what you think will be least painful for you. Lean on people you can trust - leave your mum out of this if you feel you need to - because you will need them in the weeks and months to come. I'm so sorry x

LIttleDebs · 13/03/2015 14:41

Thanks for your lovely words. Yes I have needed my RL friends and family a lot and I know they will be invaluable and I am so lucky to have them. Will update as things happen or after the dreaded day - I will need to take strength from others as I'm already not sleeping/resting because of the situation Hmm I will try to stay positive for the future. Thanks Xx

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