Sometimes, if it's really bad, distractions will get you a bit outside of yourself so you can ride it out. Depression of the non-intolerable pathological type are normal, maybe even necessary. You can fight them or you can just give in and not get dressed until noon, if at all, eat ice cream and read all day. Well, maybe not if you have kids.

I started making beaded jewelry a few years ago, then I stopped. I had all these beads, but I'd look at them and not be able to figure out what I wanted to make. A couple of weeks ago I got them out and just started stringing and unstringing various combinations. That's what I'd needed to do all along - just try putting something together. I've made a few necklaces and a couple of pairs of earrings since.

I think keeping my hands busy helps as I can get into an almost meditative state. Finishing anything helps. The best part though is looking at and handling all the various colors, shapes and textures. I'm a color nut. Even when I can't get excited about anything else, that basic love of colors and how they play off one another remains.