Family: Mom (59), Dad (59), older brother (36), me (28). My brother has depression.
I left home in my early 20s when I went to college, so I’m not sure what sparked his depression. But as he job-hopped, his condition worsened, and by around 32, he quit working and withdrew to our parents’ house.
Though I was away, I could sense my parents’ deep distress. He stayed in his room all day, sleeping through the afternoons. They said meds for depression caused weight gain or bloating, with no signs of improvement. Our grandma didn’t get it, calling him lazy, leaving my parents caught in the middle. The more people tried to help, the deeper he sank into a negative spiral.
Three years later, visiting home, I found him working a part-time job. He’d ditched the depression meds for just sleep aids. Asking what helped, my parents said letting him do what he wanted without interference was key. I avoided saying “toughen up,” just chatting occasionally to check in.
Later, he told me finding purpose in hobbies and a sense of belonging at work turned things around.
I think once he took that first step, the second and third came easier—but that initial move is tough.
That switch has to come from within, and it takes time. Those around need patience. It feels like a dark tunnel mid-journey, but rushing to fix it might backfire. Waiting with an easy mind could help. Japanese people struggle to rest, often can’t do it themselves. Maybe seeing this as a chance or a positive shift could work.
※本記事は個人のうつ病体験談です。体験内容はあくまで個人の体験であり、医療アドバイスではありません。専門的なアドバイスを希望する場合は医師へ相談を。
※This article is a personal depression story. The content is solely based on personal experience and is not medical advice. Consult a doctor for professional advice.