EMERGING FROM DEPRESSION: Acts of Nature
Most of us have felt sad, blue, unhappy, miserable or down in the dumps at one time or another. Yet true depression is not something that you can simply “snap out” of. During this time, a depressed person can miss out on so much life. Yet, depression is a treatable medical illness.
Below, I recall a time when I realized that I no longer was living in what I called “a dense fog of depression.” I was present in the moment and I could see . . .
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
People with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms. The severity, frequency and duration of symptoms will vary depending on the individual and his or her particular illness.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms of depression may include the following:
- Persistent sad, anxious or "empty" feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating, or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
ACTS OF NATURE
I’m
here . . .
Relaxing in my favorite rocker
Watching the sky cry tears onto the earth
The trees, they’re shivering, chilled from the droplets
Birds are chirping
Relishing in their bathing time.
I continue to focus on the arousing acts of nature
A dishwater squirrel quickly runs by my path
Across the damp blades of grass
Where does she go to sleep
I really don’t know.
A forceful breeze blows in surprise
Causing an apple to fall (not far from the tree)
The wind becomes stronger, the entire surrounding grows dark
Webs of lightning become the main attraction
The heavens release every emotion they have welled up
Thunder roars, echoing throughout the trembling earth.
The energetic barrage doesn’t last very long
Soon, the sun begins to peak from behind the cloud filled arena
I try to count the rain pellets as they peck the black top
Fewer and fewer begin to fall.
My eyes open wider with excitement
As I witness an artist’s painting of a rainbow slowly appear
I’m amazed at its brilliance, perfection.
My senses send tingles through my entire being
My spirit is overwhelmed
As I recall a time
When I wasn’t able to enjoy moments like these.
My body, mind and soul are tranquil now
Enough to experience
These intoxicating acts of nature.
