Similar to what Miguel'smom said - you can tell me hundreds of positive things, but I always wind up focusing on the 1 or few negatives. I also grew up with a very critical and overbearing mother, and I can see how my childhood has affected me. So I have bipolar and some childhood issues combining in the form of insecurity. I realize I should be happier - I have a great job and people seem to really like me. I was a gifted athlete and still am at 41, yet I'm very insecure and critical of myself. My entire life I've been my own worst enemy, which is at its strongest when I'm depressed.

Every day is a struggle for me, but somehow I manage to make it through. Letting go of the past is tough for me, I just do the best I can. As strange as it may sound, I think I am just a damaged person and will probably always be so. I have a very supportive wife and I'm extremely lucky, which helps keep me from being completely "lost". However, I've just accepted the fact that I'll always struggle. They say everyone has a burden in life of some sort, and I guess this is one of a few for me. Good luck!