I was in a really deep walloped depression just around the winter solstice, and as soon as the solstice came it lifted miraculously off, and I've been lepping around the hills in the snow since.

It sometimes helps to remember how very *physical* depressions are. When you're depressed you think "this is real - this pain and sadness and fear and anger are the central reality of life".

But they're not - they're central reality at the time you have them, sure, but a week later sunny happiness is the central reality.

If you're feeling that life is not worth living it may be because you've had a couple of knock-backs and feel hopeless. But that's not to say that some wonderful boost in your work and your life isn't just around the corner. What a pity to miss it just from going off in a huff from life.

It may be that you're very tired and have used up all your energy. Take a holiday, even if it's only a weekend spent hiking and hostelling somewhere beautiful - and away from your ordinary life and responsibilities.

It may be that you're short of nutrients. Take a look at your diet, and try lashing in a bit of artificial vitamin C for a start (though only in the morning: it's a wicked stimulant).

It may be that your laughter meter is low. Take out a bunch of funny videos and watch them.

But above anything remember that time really does help. If you calm down, eat and rest well, and have some fun, your mood will turn upwards again.

The human spirit is like a child, and we have a proverb in Ireland that says "Mol an oige agus tiocfaidh si" - praise youth and it will come on. Give your spirits some affection and they'll arise from the gloom.

And you can be sure, Mrzy, that the Mudcatters are thinking of you with kindly good wishes in your time of trouble.