Em, have you thought about printing this out, minus a few postings, to show to her, so that she can see for herself how much you and those who love you care? It's just a thought; not sure if it's a good one or not.

Jon, I think I understand what you are saying. I too, advocate no use of drugs unless there is no other way. I was on heart meds for almost twnety eyars, always itching from allergic reations, always aching, always with brittle hair and nails. Finally found a doc who was open to my ideas on herbs and last April I went off of any medication stronger than an occassional tylenol. I take garlic, hawthorn, motherwort, and dandelion tinctures everyday and feel so much better, plus my hair, skin, and nails are normal, again!

For me, most drugs are extremely toxic and I shun them. I also believe that doctors and society in general use them to excess and I abhor the general mentality which comes through in commercials which basically tell us to "take a pill" it'll solve all our problems.

I don't think that is what most Mudders were saying though. One thing I love about the Mudcat, is most of us post from personal experience, just as you've done, Jon, and I really appreciate that.

I do understand PeterT's point and that of others about friends or themselves benefitting from drugs. And, I do agree there comes a time where the feeling of depression is the motivation to keep being depressed and may cause a chemical imbalance which need to be righted.

Emily, you are doing a great job as a friend and fellow human bean!

luvyaKat