I’m Joel and I have Major Depressive Disorder. This short video gives a snapshot of what I am up against. I have learned one amazing thing about myself. Most of what I worry about never happens. I will time-travel into the future and imagine all kinds of trouble. But as the event plays out, the trouble never appears. My depression throws out some form of unhelpful thinking … [Read more...] about Until 4 Years Ago, I Never Called My Depression By Name
Unhelpful thinking
I Should Ask Better Questions So I’m Not a Fortune-Teller
In fact, I should be asking questions especially if I am sure of the answer. My recent experiences have led me to believe that taking people at face value is not always helpful. Over the years, I have always initially treated someone the way I would like to be treated. Some people would say I respect you. I expect you to do the right thing until you don’t. Then my … [Read more...] about I Should Ask Better Questions So I’m Not a Fortune-Teller
Has It Been Three Years Since I Was Pulled Over? – Road Rage Part 5
I don’t believe it’s fair to blame my depression for my speeding. After all, my depression is not driving the truck, I am. And while depression is putting unhelpful thinking to work, I should know better. I certainly should have known better traveling a back road after 12 AM and then passing through a work zone. When the officer came to the window he said: “Sir, did you … [Read more...] about Has It Been Three Years Since I Was Pulled Over? – Road Rage Part 5
Is My Medicine Right? Should I Be Happier?
It is hard for me to remember the last time I smiled. I mean really smiled. That I’m so happy that I cannot help but smile type of smile. This feeling of happiness wasn’t really evident in January when I was in Africa. I keep looking at the picture taken when we reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Reaching the summit at 19.431 feet was a bucket list adventure. We … [Read more...] about Is My Medicine Right? Should I Be Happier?
This Is the Beginning of The Next Chapter in My Life with Depression
Photo by Dariusz Sankowski on Unsplash How do I know that the next page is a new chapter? Mostly because I am writing this chapter. And I have written every chapter of my life so far. However, many, if not every, chapter has its share of ghostwriters. And for the awards ceremony, depression is nominated for a supporting role. Had I not been genetically pre-disposed to … [Read more...] about This Is the Beginning of The Next Chapter in My Life with Depression