Posted by Steeler Tookahn on August 13, 2000, at 17:43:47
In reply to I could have told you Vincent..., posted by misterb on August 13, 2000, at 3:29:49
>What if there really is something to be sad about for a long, long time? Such as the direction of our culture, and the destruction of the environment?
I share many of your pessimistic views regarding the environment. What sensitive person could not? However, the emotional feelings I have regarding this, whether it be called sadness or "emotional depression", are quite different from the biological illness I am suffering from.
As strange as it may sound to some one who has not suffered from a depression of a biological origin, nothing can upset me enough to become biologically depressed. I understand that severe emotional distress can set off the biological illness in many, but for me the two are quite distinct and unrelated. I get sad and depressed at things that are sad and depressing but that is normal and I handle it quite well (if I do say so myself).
The biological illness is immobilizing, physically painful, and robs me of the ability to respond to any situation (good or bad). I find sadness and adversity, on the other hand, emotional states of mind that tend to inspire me to action. One is horrible and meaningless: the other is temporarily painful and insightful.
I think it's important that we not brush off your concern about the sorry state we might be in and the pain you may be feeling if you are sensitive to your surroundings. It's just that it may not be the same thing that many on this board are experiencing.
poster:Steeler Tookahn
thread:42420
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000811/msgs/42773.html