Cabin,

It is precisely because you are suffering (just like the rest of us!) that you deserve to post here.

Additionally, I think you are absolutely right. When I was depressed, I had a few well-meaning (but ultimately ignorant) friends who thought I just needed to "cheer up". They weren't rude, uncaring people - they just had never dealt with something like this before and were trying to make me feel better the best way they knew how.

Dave (Dexter on the board) wrote a wonderful paper on understanding depression for friends and family.

Dave, could you post that link up here for us again? Thanks!

Anna

some of it's magic
some of it's tragic
but i had a good life all the way......
~jimmy buffett