"I am not sure if you can call people who live and deal with depression on a daily basis amateurs"

That wasn't what I meant, but now that you bring it up M.Ted, I will say that it is true! Just because someone suffers from depression and/or anxiety does not make them an expert on dealing with others.   Every case is different.   While it is all well and good that people give encouragement on Mudcat, it does not replace GOOD professional medical advice.   Yes, we are amateurs (and I apologize if it turns out to be your profession). Someone who is truly suffering could use this advice as a crutch. See a professional.