Everyone who lives with depression is a survivor in his/her own right.
Please visit these sites and read about how these people have battled
depression and its effects on their lives and the lives of their loved ones.

Depression and Back bearybipolar:diary of a mental health consumer/survivor Manic Times - Bipolar Disorder Manic's Dance Golden Footprints An Online Diary of a Manic Depressive Nothingness Andrew's Depression Page

Something taking over me... I lay my head down on the pillow, thoughts charging through my mind. Everything is black and bleak. I search but nothing can I find. I feel alone in a room that's full. I feel sad and so forlorn. There's something taking over me, Something that makes me torn. There is no sunshine in my world. But I'm coping day by day. I'm going through the motions, There's nothing you can do or say. I fight the feelings that take over me. I cry and sleep, but still. I feel there is no cure for me, No magic little pill. When depression takes it's hold on you, You want to run and hide. It takes some pieces here and there. It takes your love, your hope, your pride. © Patti(aka FilbertNutt)

National Association For Poetry Therapy Passions in Poetry - Depression Poetry as Therapy Poetry Therapy What Is Poetry Therapy The Center For Journal Therapy Creative Arts Therapy Links

one day at a time I can not handle more than one day at a time one step at a time or I may stumble & fall It is when I take my time I reach my goal It is when I rush so fast I fall It is alright to stop for a little while to take a breath to take a rest Though it is totally wrong to just completely give up and stop for when one stops they lose all ©1984 magical marsha

On the outside looking in, You can't get past the painted on grin. The eyes of emptiness follow you, Carefully plotting your next move. You see no reason for discord, You see no reason for alarm. This gentle soul that fills your view Is full of greed and threats of harm. On the inside looking out, Can't you hear it scream and shout? Can't you feel the emptiness, The fear, the self doubt? It sees no reason for you leave It sees no reason for you to care This tormented soul you can not see Just go away, let it be. ©1998 N.C.

Please visit these other RAOK TLC Committee projects for related issues.

Depression comes in many forms.
So how do you know when "the blues" are depression?
This link might help.

A Guide to Understanding Depression vs. Sadness

Blues Busters

Journey of Hearts

Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul

Chicken Soup For the Soul

Random Acts Of Kindness

Daily Jump Start

Send a card of Encouragement

Send a Card of Support