@maw258 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. We're glad you found us. We are all patients, and not medical professionals. A few of us are nurses. You will find we are sometimes a chatty group, and share our experiences and stories to help others, and ask for assistance when we need to. It must have been hard to look at that list and tell yourself, "Yep, I have that one. Yep, I have that one" and down the line.

Knowing what a big part of the root cause is, is a wonderful start to working out of that depression! Not wanting to go onto medication is commendable, but sometimes necessary to get our brain "kickstarted" towards healthier thinking. I have done a few short rounds of a mild SSRI a few times, and was able to wean myself off. Non-traditional chemical intervention can include counseling or therapy of some sort, group interaction, getting outside in the fresh air and nature, exercise, journaling, making and taking time for yourself. Are you able to modify any of the family or work stressors, so that you can help alleviate your depression? Have you spoken with your primary care Dr about your concerns, for a referral to some assistance?

I hope you will continue to post, and let us know how you are doing. Some people who may be able to offer more insight include @parus @mamacita @merpreb @lioness We care here.
Ginger