When I taught in the '80s, I entered a psych ward for depression in the middle of one year.

[Are_grits_groceries]

I signed myself in because I knew I needed help. I spent 6 weeks there getting a handle on my life again.

When I was released, I went back to my job. I told my students where I had been and why. I also told them if they ever felt depressed or knew somebody who did, get help. It wasn't an easy path but you can be happy again.

I had gotten copies of "Darkness Visible" by William Styron. It was one of the few books out that could even begin to convey the depths of despair one could reach. I loaned them out to anybody who wanted to read it.

A good friend of mine was a vice-principle at my school and she asked me if I really wanted to do that. I told her that it was important to me to tell the truth because it wasn't something to be ashamed of and the kids should know that.

She was concerned that there might be some blowback from parents. I shrugged and told her I would burn that bridge when I got to it. I never heard a word. If she did, she never told me.

Several of my students quietly thanked me. If I helped one, it was worth it.

[Mnemosyne]

1. Thank you, AGG. It takes courage to be so honest in the face of such stigma.

It took a very long time for me to understand the strength, and courage, it takes for us to seek help. Once I got past the shame it was easier.

[get the red out]

2. Thank you

I have suffered depression as long back into childhood as I can remember. Good help was hard to find when I finally asked for it at 18. My parents were extremely angry at the prospect of having spawned offspring with "troubles"; since there were so many people in our family who had "amounted to nothing" because they couldn't "snap out of it".

I am amazed I lived long enough to get real, effective help. I am grateful for my life today.

RIP Robin, it was NOT your fault.

[s-cubed]

3. I wasn't a teacher. I was out of work

on disability for depression for almost a year. When I went back, I was open about why I was out. This was early '90's. Maybe I helped someone, too.

[calikid]

4. I had forgotten about one of my favorite high school teachers in the 70's,

until you brought it up. He went into some deep counseling during the summer. It affected me deeply, suffering from the dreaded disease.
Thanks for your post grits.