Q: I enjoyed your recent article about the need for mothers to be of good cheer. I totally agree with you, but I struggle mightly with that. I struggle with depression and a guilt complex that you can't image.  I do take medication which helps tremendously, but I still struggle to show joy to my children.  If you have any specific helps with these factors, I would appreciate it.  I also realize that fasting and prayer would be a great help, and I am determined to use these to help me "be of good cheer."

Daryl: I appreciate your thoughtful question, but I’m concerned for you about your depression.  I can understand your situation somewhat because one of our daughters, a mother of five, has suffered greatly from chronic depression.  Miraculously and happily, she is well now, although she has to be careful to get enough sleep, eat properly, etc. and periodically her medication has to be adjusted.   It’s interesting that I’m planning my Meridian Magazine article for February to be about depression, based upon her story. 

In the meantime, if you’re anxious for information, you’ll find her complete story in my new book, The Ultimate Career—The Art of Homemaking for Today. I wrote the book with contributions from my eight daughters (five daughters and three daughters-in-law). We included Elaine’s depression story under the chapter, “When Illness Strikes Home,” because any mother’s chronic illness has a definite effect on the management of the home.  I think you’ll find her story helpful and hopeful. 

One comment about your intent to fast. . .    In Elaine’s case, it was important that her meals be regular and that she never skip any.  Going without food played havoc with her medications and also confused her body and thus further exacerbated the depression.  So, those of us who loved her (husband, parents, parents-in-law) did the fasting in her behalf.

For a more detailed treatment of this topic, please see my free article, It's Like Walking Through Molasses, which I co-wrote with Elaine.

Warmest Regards, Daryl