Wow. I'm amazied at the honesty of many of these replies to this thread. I actually didn't intend to start such a discussion, however I do hope it's helpful to some (whether you choose to reply or not) and at least helps each of us to be cognisant to those around us and what they may be going through.

I really like something Heidi said..."there is always someone to talk to, it is NOT a problem (but) just needing advice"... We all need someone just to listen to us. I will say this much, a couple of years in college, I was fairly depressed myself. I have to credit a very good friend who was in the same InterVaristy chapter on campus. Many times, sometimes even weekly, Andy and I would get together and he would just let me talk. If I wasn't ready to talk, we would study together or (more likely) work on a car or work out together. Andy was wise enough to let me talk when I was ready, no matter when that was. Plus, he cared enough about me to see through the "half-truths" I would spit out sometimes, and ask me the tough questions to get to the real meaning inside, usually surrounding some fear or insecurity. It's awesome to have a deep enough friend who will tell you when you're wrong, will build you up after he's spoken the truth, then tackle you and wrestle you to the ground.

One thought I might add, if it's ever needed (and this may be a good first-step before consulting a Psychologist) many larger churchs have a "Pastoral Conselor" on staff. This is someone different than a pastor - they are a trained counselor who does not charge for services to you. If they feel you need further assistance, they can make a reccommendation. This would be applicable if you adscribe to religious beliefs, in my case non-denoniational Christian.

Also if you do require formal Psychological assitantace, many health-care plans cover this. Talk with you employer for suggestions and further assistance as well. Most of all - keep being honest about how you feel. It;s the first step toward real healing. I'll be praying for any in need.

 

Depression is only a thought. It is your mind thinking unconsciously.
Echart Tolley has written a very good book, titled A New Earth.
I would recommend it to anyone, the contents of the book are life changing.

 

I hold no expectations for thanks or gratitude, however I give it freely.

I choose to accept, rise too, and overcome every challenge set before me.

I hold myself accountable to all I do and say.

I adhere to a high set of personel values and morals, never waivering from them.

I refuse to have a chain of self pity wrapped around my neck anchoring me down and preventing me from being the very best person I can be.




We have all chewed some of the same dirt and walked some of the same paths. I chose to change the way I think because I wanted more for my family than I did for myself. They deserved it.

It was not, and is not, "ever" going to be easy.


Come follow me at work for a week, it may very well cure what ails you.

 

Just a thought from an old Marine. I have been on just about every drug known to the VA and my private Doctor. I've heard it all. "Your getting hard to get along with again". Or, I'm just flat the breeding pair of a mule.<< Get that one and you get a XMas card from me.. I don't have an answer for you. I do know when I get off my "MEDS" its the ole man everyone is use too. Am I going to put a pistol to my head? No way in the pit of hell will I do that. Does it make it any easier to deal with life? No Sir. It does not. I deal with it in my own way. Need any pointers, you are more than welcomed to PM me. I'll help if I can......Its all about not giving up. Its about being better and winning over what is bothering you... Some days I win, some day I lose..

 

Just got back from over two months of no internet. First post I came across was this one. I started one of my long winded comments on it regarding depression and how it has impacted my loved ones and myself but decided to cut it short. As has been pointed out, it is nothing to be ashamed of. It affects so many people: from the homeless person that we think is too lazy to get a job to people who “have it made”. Many thanks to the people who have posted. Depressing subject but it made my day a little brighter.

 

Been down and out a couple times through the years ... maybe this will help (does me).

PARADOXICAL COMMANDMENTS

People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.

If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.

If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.

The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.

Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.

The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds.
Think big anyway.

People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs.
Fight for a few underdogs anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.

People really need help but may attack you if you do help them.
Help people anyway.

Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you have anyway.

Cheers,
PISTOL