Depression

I am depressed.  I have depression.  What does this mean?  What should you say/do/think?

• Don't think you have to treat me differently.
• Talk to me
• Ask me questions
• Show that you care-a note, a text, anything will do
• Be there for me
• If you are serious about wanting to help be prepared for the long haul-its unlikely to get better overnight.
• Don't make promises you can't keep (especially promises of time)
• Just because I smile or laugh doesn't mean I'm "better"
• Don't assume that because I'm depressed I can't smile or laugh.  I do still have a sense of humour!
• Don't make it all about me.  Let me be a friend to you too.
• Be prepared for silences when we're together

I'll come back to this.  I thought of some when I was at the rugby this afternoon.