I do disagree with your last statement in some cases. Though any depression that I have felt has been the result of my own choices. My friend's depression is a result of genetics.
Agree 100%
Chemical Imbalance, Manic Depression, Schizophrenia and similar Psych disorders are genetic - inherited through Geneaologic, rather than Sociologic methods.
All require some type of Psycotrophic (sp???) meds regiment, in order for the affected person to control the disorder.
My Family has these traits on both sides, so I am trying to learn as much as possible to both understand / acknowledge it in myself + others, and to know the best ways possible to assist the person(s) affected.
It's very sad! the most successful way to keep it in control is through meds.
Without the continued regiment, they slip.
Saddest things to see is one of my Friends or Family Members (with an affliction) go through a Bipolar Cycle.
I just let them talk as much as they want to - even if I have to stay up for 2 days. This seems to be beneficial, as they have a much lower "Down Time", and more coherent "Up Times" - if they do not take their meds.
If anyone has links for related information, please let me know.
Thanks.
Scott.
p.s. - Mike (Trumpy);
Feel free to E-mail me if you want to.
You are taking the right approach in conquering the Depression, by discussing things with others.
Keep up the great work!
Oh, and BTW - I do not think of any Person, whom uses meds for treatment, as "Druggies" - I only think of them as "Winners".
My Wife's Father-In-Law is on a daily regiment, which includes Lithium Dioxide - to control Manic Depression and Chemical issues (inherited).
He has the most difficulty with this problem, as the meds make him feel like a zombie (un motivated and difficult to think), but able to "Interact" with people.
Without the meds, he has "some" motivation, "somewhat" clearer thoughts - but the Depression runs rampant.
He has attempted suicide, luckily my Wife's Mother caught it before it was too late.
This is what makes me cry for these people - they feel so unworthy.
The fact that they take any and all ways to remain in life (commingle with others) makes them winners to me.
I want to assist as much as possible - only I want to help _THEM_, not boost my ego! (or be an armchair Psychologist / Talk Show host!).
Scott