Coming Out of Depression
About three weeks ago I began to slide into depression. I could not think clearly, cried at the drop of a hat, had no enthusiam, and felt overwhelmed. I wanted to hide or escape from the pain. It was a chemical reaction. My life is really quite fine and I am grateful. But out of no where came this terrible gloom. At first I wondered if I was getting the latest flue. No, it was not the flue. Then I came to me that I was depressed. It has been years since I have had an episode. I call the doctor, made an appointment, began taking the medication and am coming out the other side.
Depression is not personal. It is a chemical condition that effects the brain. Some people feel shame and guilt. I feel like I am a burden to my family when I am depressed. However it is not a reflection on a person's worth, value or goodness. Depression is depression and needs to be treated by talk therapy and/or medication.
I tried to think of the positive aspects of depression. Here are a few: it slow our awareness, we feel more acutely, we have compassion for others who suffer from depression and it can push us into creating art from the dark and raw side of our selves.
How does mood changes effect your artwork?