[cat2992]

I've been told by some and read about others who feel that depression is a self-indulgent, lazy way to avoid responsibilities in life.

This couldn't be father from the truth! I would much rather be working at a job I love and exploring my passions, socializing with friends and family or job taking my dog on walks.

I feel very defensive about these accusations. If I had cancer or was in a car crash, i wouldn't be considered lazy, etc. I would be treated as a person who needs help and offered it. Meanwhile the loved ones in my life only see me isolating in bed and avoiding them. No wonder! They treat me like I'm worthless. I've tried to educate them on what depression is, nit I'm told I can just 'snap out of it' - things you've all heard before.

I'm 46, female, and in a low paying job after being laid off. I have loads of experience, an advanced degree and I'm further depressed by the job market. I'm seriously considering going back to school for an MBA. I feel like it would give me focus, and open up more career doors too.

Any thoughts on dealing with negative people as well as a midlife career change?

Thanks!

[Abe Froman]

Arnold Schwarzenegger's Six Rules. Youtube it, several versions, just watch one of the short versions, 5 or so minutes(maybe 6), not the whole 26 minutes speech, unless you want to.

"Don't listen to the nay sayers" he says. I made a comment to my nutrionist, who works with my T, that I was lazy. She said I wasn't, and she was right. We talked about how if I wasn't depressed I would have gotten up Sunday and cleaned house. And that's true, but I didn't feel like it.

On school though, I think that's a great idea. I started back for my bachelor's when I was 31, it's been a kind of long road getting here, but I'm graduating in December. I'll be 37 at that time. And them I'm going to work on my MBA also. I've really enjoyed school a lot more than I did when I was 18 and 19. I learn more too because I actually study now. Plus, it keeps my mind busy in a positive way. So I say go for it.

I'll be entering a brand new to me job sector after having been self employed since 2005. I'm more excited than nervous at this point about interviewing.

I think it's never too late to continue learning. Best of luck to you.

[Dx1347]

I think sometimes others think that just because they have had moments in their lives when they were sad or upset or mildly depressed that they know all about depression. There is a huge difference between a temporary episode of depression and major depression. I hate the stigma and the stereotyping. Hate being looked down on by others who think that I am weak or lazy or making excuses. Nothing selfish about depression. It is as much an illness or injury as cancer or pneumonia or a broken leg.