I was treated for depression about ten years ago when a relative begged me to see a therapist just to rule out any problems. An emergency visit with a psychiatrist followed that same day, a debate about hospitalizing me, and the start of five years of intensive therapy. I would not wish that black hole on anyone. My curse - I felt nothing. I would look at a sharp knife or a hot stove and honestly wonder if I could feel something by touching them.

Prozac works for me. But without professional help I could never have gotten to the basis for my depression and climbed out of the hole. I also could not keep myself on the straight and narrow now without understanding who I am and what I want. I can see the "signs", recognize the red flags and get myself back on track all by myself.

Get a professional evaluation. I can almost guarantee that you will discover that not only do you not suffer from a weakness of character but your very strength of character has kept you from hurting yourself or wallowing in depression.

Life free from depression is pure joy. One of the strangest discoveries I made was how to feel disappointment, sorrow and pain without losing nyself in them. Good luck in your journey.

Mary