To the Husband Whose Wife Battles Anxiety & Depression

To the husband whose wife battles anxiety and depression:

You’ve held me during a panic attack.

You’ve held me in my tears when I’ve been covered under a cloud of depression. 

You’ve talked to my anxiety more than you’ve talked to me–trying to rationalize the fear and talk me down from it all. 

You’ve been patient with me when I snap at you, or when I have no energy or motivation to do anything. 

There are not a lot of people who can stand by someone’s side when they’re up at war against their own brain; but you’re a blessing to me sent straight from God. Not many people understand what it is that goes on in the brain of someone who struggles with a mental illness, but you’ve taken the time to learn and you get it now. 

You know when you’re talking to anxiety instead of your wife. 

You know when you’re talking to depression, and you know that means you need to stay a little closer to the love of your life. 

You know–better than anyone else–what goes on in this head of mine.

You’re the most patient, compassionate, supportive, and understanding man I know.

You stick by me because, well, “in sickness and health,” right? 

And all I have to say is, God knew I would need you.  

Thank you for being there for me through it all. 

Thank you for loving me–all of me.