Brainscrubber

One of the most depressing facts associated with Depression is the complete lack of knowledge that most people have regarding the disease/condition. When doctors first diagnosed my condition, they recommend that I read a book called Depression and Its Treatment, Greist and Jefferson (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0446600296/qid=1118436106/sr=2-1/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_1/002-1617343-9088812).

While the book is not the most engaging reading – it’s very dry and clinical – it is highly informative and easily navigated by the layman. I highly recommend that you read it if you think that you, or a loved one, may be depressed. The greatest negative about depression is a lack of knowledge.

I suffer from chronic clinical depression. This has been diagnosed medically; it is not a self-diagnosis. I have been treated with a combination of pharmacology and psychological therapy.

Lots of folks like to keep this sort of dark secret hidden away from public view. So, why in the world would I voluntarily announce it to the world? Because suffering from depression is not some horrible blight on a person’s character. Depression is a medical condition caused by a chemical imbalance and can be treated in several ways — some involving drugs, some not. No one should feel ashamed about suffering from depression, and they should not hide from the condition and worsen it by not seeking some form of treatment.

Most of all, though, I just want to let folks know that they are not alone.

Over the next little bit, I am going to post some excerpts of my own story, but I’m also going to post as an advocate of action in treating the condition. Allowing depression to remain untreated can have negative consequences not only for the depressed individual, but also for friends and family. Depression is a SERIOUS condition, and it should not be ignored.

Right now, I am in a very good place…off the medication and on my own. Luckily, my wife keeps a pretty good eye on me, and she calls my attention to concerns she might have that are reflected in my behavior.

But, finally, if you think you may be suffering from depression, please seek help immediately.

Copyright 2005 by Greg Hubbard

My name is Greg. I am using this place to clear my brain of a few cobwebs. I have no idea if anyone besides me will get anything out of this, but we’ll see.