My depression has been surfacing repeatedly lately, no matter what I try to do to keep myself balanced. I am considering a low-dose zoloft, but I am very reluctant, as are my friends.

Tried to write a little something for myself, and felt a touch better after reading it. It's unlikely that I'll stick with it for too long, but here's hoping.

"In order to defeat something like depression, one would need to find strength. But for those whom strength is not inherent, where can it be found?

Some might say that in a time of weakness, one should rely on the strength of others... Friends and family who want to help. But what do you do when others' strengths are not a resource for you?

Can one summon strength from within themselves, even while in a desolate state of weakness and despair? And what does it mean to be strong, anyway?

It is to persevere, no matter circumstances you are faced with. To keep your chin up, despite the many valid reasons you find to hide away. To find solace in the few comforts you have, and to try to better your situation as best you can. To seize control over the few things you can still maintain, though your life may seem to be spinning out of control. To recognize and validate the strength you already possess to have come through any adversities that have already befallen you. To get up each day, promising yourself to make it as good as you can. To continue working toward accomplishments, even if they are only a small fraction of what you could otherwise achieve. And doing anything you can, even though it may not be magnificent, or extraordinary.

Because even your minimum effort is still an effort, nonetheless."