At 40, I still try to reach out to my family that I need help with my depression and tried for 26 years and they say I'm only attention seeking. Why can't they understand or do they not care?

Communication is the hardest thing sometimes, especially with family. We expect them to know us as we know ourselves, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. By the very nature of your disorder, you need a lot of reassurance at times, as you know. They probably feel confused because, in their minds, they may think that they have been supportive all this time. If so, you may consider sharing with them that you appreciate that effort. You can also consider expressing why that sometimes it doesn't feel like enough or the right kind of support that you need precisely. They may know you as only family can, but they don't understand why their efforts do not satisfy. Give this some thought. You know all the right questions and answers from your viewpoint. Perhaps you may need to know a little more of their feelings to understand their thinking. The first question they will answer without you even asking is that of course, they care. They are your family and have always been there for you. You are just going to learn their feelings while you share yours.

Hello. I think it is so brave of you to continue to reach out for help from your family. I know depression can feel so lonely. I have learned to reach out to more than just family in order to get the support I needed. Friends, therapist, church and other community support groups. Having a bigger support system helps to prevent burning out a couple people. Some people don't want to understand because it can be scary. However, I think they still love us and they care. I hope this helps in some way...know you are brave and courageous. Take care of you!!!