Writing to fend off depression

It’s impossible to avoid the occasional onset of “the blues.” An unexpected loss or disappointment will generally bring sadness. At some point, when the grief we feel lasts beyond a short period of time, it transitions from feeling blue to being depressed. What is important to realize is that the emotional pain we feel is internal. That is, after the initial dismay of an unhappy moment, we actually have the choice to get over it and move on. Depending on a number of factors, this can be easy for some and nearly impossible for others. When I feel myself slipping, I look at Marty to remind myself how important it is to battle through life’s difficult moments.

As someone who has been depressed before, I have a fear that I could fall down again. There are times where I question whether or not it’s appropriate for me to be baring my soul like this. Would I be better off just seeing a therapist and/or taking medication? Maybe — I don’t know. What I do know is that this creative outlet has at least allowed me to prevent a complete downward spiral by bottling everything up. It has been a catharsis. While I still have my down days, this blog and your likes/comments help lift me up.

Being a writer is always something I’ve felt is who I am as opposed to writing just being something that I do. Yes, as I have said previously, writing became a job for me — speeches, press releases, and articles; that’s just the practical side. Conversely, I used to write primarily for recreation. Short stories, screenplays, journals: that’s what I did for fun — to entertain myself. This blog was brought on by a confluence of factors, but it’s deeper than writing for a job or for fun. This is something I feel the need to do.

I recognize how fortunate I am to have the ability to express my thoughts in a forum like this, and I do not take that for granted. I am thankful for that, just as I am thankful for you taking the time to read. And not to be lost in all the gratitude is how appreciative I am of Martin and the love that he has brought into my world. What a wonderful inspiration he is, putting life in perspective and motivating me to be a better person.

Various challenges over the past couple months have forced me to dig deep to fight through the hard times. I have been so incredibly blessed to have Anne throughout my personal struggles. When I get lost in my fear and anxiety, she is strong enough to hold everything together. My family and friends have been there too. I’m a lucky man.

Whatever problems you’re having, know that you will get through them. We can handle whatever hardships we’re being dealt. You can do this. I can do this. We can all do this.

As Rocky Balboa once said, “keep moving forward.”