[stylist] Writers and depression

Sat Jan 24 05:17:58 UTC 2015

Many writers labeled depressed, though, are some of the most highly praised
writers. So the label doesn't always lead to a disregard for their work, or
thinking these writers incapable of lucid thought.

However, you do make a point, smile.

Bridgit

-----Original Message-----
From: stylist [mailto:stylist-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of EJ Kobek via
stylist
Sent: Friday, January 23, 2015 4:34 PM
To: stylist at nfbnet.org
Subject: Re: [stylist] Writers and depression

If we're thinking about depression = unhappiness, then writers' heightened
consciousness could be an element. Consciousness of injustice, suffering
(ours and others')....

As Alice James was quoted as saying in her journal, however, (included in my
book *Everyday Cruelty) *"Ah, those strange people who have the courage to
be unhappy! Are they unhappy, by-the -way?"

I know there are biological underpinnings (I.e., neurotransmitter problems,
poor uptake, adrenal gland burn out, thyroid issues, etc.) *sometimes* to
unhappiness, but I think our culture far too often labels mere misery and
yawning consciousness as depression, thus neutralizing our voices,
relegating those such folks to, oh, "mentally ill," instead of aware and
articulate. Another favorite quotation, related: "Societies honor their live
conformists and their dead rebels." Something like that.....Medicalizing
unhappiness is a superior and effective way of silencing people's deep and
true voices.

Oh, joy. Sob. Whimper. Sigh. Be okay. Be fine. Be great.

Helen
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