It might be that suicide and depression came to mind this morning after learning last evening that the son of a friend/colleague just took his own life. Or it might be that my nephew has again been back in jail, still seeking sobriety and a solid footing on the path of successful reentry to society after having been in prison for committing a felony. Or it might be knowing that on average, adjusted for age, the annual U.S. suicide rate increased 24% between 1999 and 2014, from 10.5 to 13.0 suicides per 100,000 people, the highest rate recorded in 28 years.
Whatever led me to a powerful TED talk about depression by someone who knows, I am grateful for the awareness that “The opposite of depression is vitality.”
“The opposite of depression is not happiness, but vitality, and it was vitality that seemed to seep away from me in that moment.” In a talk equal parts eloquent and devastating, writer Andrew Solomon takes you to the darkest corners of his mind during the years he battled depression. That led him to an eye-opening journey across the world to interview others with depression — only to discover that, to his surprise, the more he talked, the more people wanted to tell their own stories.
Search for tips on overcoming depression, and access the free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Writing helps me work through strong emotions. Doing energy work helps me increase my vitality. Self-care is vital, but depression is more than lack of self-care. Depression can be overcome and there is nothing to be ashamed or afraid of about seeking help.
Whether this is for you or someone you care about, may all beings find relief. May all beings know love. May all beings come to the end of suffering.
