Depression is one of those health conditions that usurps every part of a suffering individual’s life. Employment, interpersonal relationships  responsibilities, motivation, future goals, level of patience, etc. are all affected by depressions sting. As I described in a previous article, depression clouds the sufferers lens so that everything appears nebulous.

Have you noticed that the most compassionate, understanding, modest, and intuitive people seem to be those who have suffered, been oppressed, or are in constant search for life’s ultimate meaning? I have and I find that it is an interesting phenomenon. As stated in a previous article, it was not until rain and “dark-valleys” appeared in my life that I grew and could see my potential.

“I am thankful to all those who said no to me. It’s because of them I did it myself”__Albert Einstein

Did you know that rain brings growth to more things than plants and flowers? I have seen just how “rainy” seasons in my life motivated me to grow. Without those “dark valley’s,” I’m not sure I could relate or understand what it takes to hold on in moments of distress. What is one  secret to my courage? It is to allow my insecurities and worries about tomorrow to bolster my courage and character.

Have you ever noticed your emotions the day after a very stressful day running errands, meeting people, supporting family or friends, working, and meeting deadlines? Have you awakened wondering if you could have done something better the day before? Perhaps you could have spoken more friendly to someone or have greater patience with someone.

Love is more than a feeling of butterflies at the thought of one’s beloved or a fleeting desire and stream of words in a love ballad. Love is complex and entails a silent thread by which we connect to another. We have very little control over its power. Love crosses racial, social, and even physical barriers. It is so mysteriously psychological, emotional, and divine.

A very real part of living with or dealing with an individual with a severe or untreated mental health disorder is loss and grief. For the rest of us, unexpected change can usher in feelings of loss and grief.

Cognitive distortions are distorted or dysfunctional ways that we think about events in our lives. For many of us, engaging in negative thought patterns (whether we are aware of them or not) often result in fatigue and high levels of stress.

For many families, caretakers, and friends of individuals with a severe or untreated illness, negative thought patterns often lead to depression and high levels of stress.