16 Comments

  1. It’s so heart breaking to me that depression creates both internal and external isolation, thus making it so much harder for the individual experiencing it to see that getting help can lead to getting real tools to liberate them from being in that stuck mode.

    1. By “internal isolation”, I am assuming you mean the idea that they struggle to feel emotions themselves. Yes, that’s what I hear all the time. It’s as if there is a wall there that they can’t get beyond. We have to work at it brick by brick to take it down, very carefully. It’s been erected over the years for a reason. Thanks for commenting Elin.

  2. This is an important post to write and get out there. I’ve seen depression up close and it’s frightening and disturbing. I hope that your words hit home with those who need it. We need to continue this conversation in order to cope and, hopefully, move on. Great post, Margaret.

    1. You bet it is Cathy. It can turn someone’s life completely into something they don’t identify with anymore. Or connect with in any meaningful way. It’s implosive. Thanks for helping me with your own words and actions.

  3. Thanks for this, Margaret. I believe I am depressed….situational or short term….still grieving I’m sure. I’ve tried hard to be strong and gain confidence this past year…..and everyone told me so. But I am sadder now, tired and sick of giving and smiling and carrying on. Why is it suddenly harder? Is it survivor’s guilt or dishonoring what we had to be enjoying life? Your suggestions grabbed me…..maybe look at myself and vulnerablility rather than helping others cope. Thanks, my friend.

  4. I come from a long line of people who suffer from chronic depression. The impact that it has had on our family is devastating as not one person is close to the next. I’ve been able to recognize that the this is going on currently, however, not everyone has had this realization and still suffer, or make those around them suffer, from their day to day detriment.

    1. I am sad hearing that but perhaps with your realization you can stop the legacy. Michael Yapko has a wonderful book entitled “Hand Me Down Blues”. It’s about familial depression. I would highly suggest it to you or any of his books. Thank you for such a personal comment.

    2. I am sad hearing that but perhaps with your realization you can stop the legacy. Michael Yapko has a wonderful book entitled “Hand Me Down Blues”. It’s about familial depression. I would highly suggest it to you or any of his books. Thank you for such a personal comment.

  5. Everyone, I mean everyone is fighting some sort of battle…it’s important to be kind, especially to yourself. I used to think depressed people were just not trying or not seeing the positive until it happened to me. It has been a journey for me, and your weekly posts have really helped me get through the most difficult years of my life. Depression is a nasty beast but if you do the work and make it a daily habit you can get through it. I am so thankful for your help Dr Margaret.

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