User Comments

1. 

   9/18/09

   Hayseed

   Given the state of the economy, unemployment and general mayhem in the world, this could be a temporary case of the blues. Clinical depression is an overwhelming, pervasive sense of sadness experienced most days over a period of at least two weeks.
   
   Both are manageable and quite common, especially during change of seasons when the blues are more often called 'seasonal affective disorder.' Generally, sunlight will alleviate the symptoms. Special light bulbs that simulate natural light are very helpful in combating this phenomenon.
   
   If you answer yes to any of these questions, it's time to discuss the situation with a doctor.
   
   * Is your mood interfering with your personal relationships or your job performance?
   
   * Have these feelings lasted for longer than two weeks?
   
   * Is your stress from a single, identified stress (example: serious illness of child) that does not have a clear end in sight?
   
   * Are you beginning to feel worthless or guilty about a situation?
   
   * Is the stress not allowing you to find happiness in other parts of your life?
   
   Please keep in touch .. I care about what happens. I think most of the folks on here will feel the same way. You're among friends :]

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2. 

   9/18/09

   volleypc

   Thanks for your post. I was not expecting to wait an hour for a reply, but it did give me some time to think. I enjoy spending time outdoors, running, photography, etc. This past week it has rained almost every day and I had to deal with a little sinus infection as well. I think I am going to run in the morning and that will probably take care of it.
   
   The economy and work situation will take care of itself soon enough. I am just going to keep doing the things I enjoy while keeping my eye open
   
   Seriously though, I do appreciate you caring enough to reply.

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3. 

   9/19/09

   Hels

   Our federal opposition parliamentarian with responsibility for emissions trading today revealed he has been diagnosed with a depressive condition, a malady he has suffered his whole life. He will stand down from the opposition front bench while being treated for his depression, with his responsibilities shared among other frontbenchers.
   
   I think it is pretty impressive for an Australian shadow minister to stand up in public and admit that he is struggling with depression and that he needs treatment. It makes it easier for us normal mortals.

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4. 

   9/19/09

   drjay1966

   I've struggled with depression for most of my life. What you describe might be depression, but I'm not about to make a diagnosis (not being that kind of doctor). Depression manifests itself in a lot of different ways, ranging from intense, overpowering misery (deep depression) to a sense of dullness or emptiness (low-grade depression). But, having those symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you're depressed. You might be heartbroken, mourning, burned out, etc. Overall, I'd say follow Hayseed's advice.

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