I was diagnosed with a major depressive episode about 12 years ago and spent 5 days in Shepard Pratt. What effected me the most during that time was my fellow patients in group therapies. Some were much worse off than I thought I was and it made me reevaluate some things in my life. The whole experience made me realize just how long I had been suffering from depression.....My whole life! It made me want to understand myself more. It was kind of like a new starting point. Since then I feel I've been more compassionate and understanding towards others...........Isn't that what it's all about?