Who do you know?

Everyone knows someone that has or has had depression at some stage in their life.  It is normal for us to feel down or sad at times on our life.  You may have had a friend go through Post Natal Depression, or experience depression through grief after the loss of a loved one or even a job.  You may know someone who is very obviously depressed, where they are very sad, low and negative, even when good things happen. 

Or you may know someone like me where you wouldn't know it to look at them... but underneath all that normality is a sad, sad person.

I am generally a happy, boisterous, loud, laugh at life kind of person.  I can feel good when good things happen.  I like to socialise and be a part of the community.  I like to help others: vent, celebrate, solve a problem, plan revenge (nah not really!), fundraise, cook, you name it - except move furniture!

I find it extremely difficult to say "No".  I am a very capable person, so of course I can take it all on.  Right?!?  Who says I can't? Let me at 'em!

Now with age, medication and a husband who can sometimes see my limits better than me, I have learnt to step back and say 'No".  I have said 'No' to a few things over the past 18 months.  I have also said 'Yes' and then had to go back and say 'No' after further thought.  I have also learned not to feel guilty about it and realise that if you explain, most good people will understand.

Each bout of depression I go through seems to be getting worse with age.  I can't explain it, neither can my doc.  I used to have experiences that would trigger a new spiral downwards, but these days the obvious triggers are less and less.  I don't seem to recognise what is happening anymore to be able to pull myself back before I get too deep. 

Suddenly I wake up in such a dark place it's like my eyes are still shut.  This is exactly what my last bout was like.  I truly felt like all of a sudden I was really low and heavy.  I had no explanation for why I could possibly be there this time.  BUT after talking with my Doc, I have realised that it was probably a long time coming, except this time I was reacting rather then experiencing a trigger. 

Some people experience, some react, some do both.   I am now one of the latter.  Oh the Joys!

Do you know what your triggers are? 
If you have a partner with Depression, do you know their triggers? 

If you or someone you know may be experiencing depression, check out the symptoms I have listed on the Learn about Depression page on this blog.  If it is you, please TALK to your GP.  If it's someone you know, please talk to them or contact one of the awesome organisations listed in  Important Links for information on how to help your friend.