Let 'Reticence' be you Depression Conscience: Part 2 of Lessons for depressionfrom my Grandchildren



Does depression really have a conscience?

 Meet #2 grandchild who I will call 'Reticence', almost sounds like a real name doesn't it?

 Such a pensive little girl in this picture. She was born in 2007.
Last week I suggested that we could all take a lesson from a granddaughter who refuses to consider herself 'limited'. Good idea and sometimes we need a little inspiration like that.


 But this week I am going in a totally different direction and we are taking lessons one who is a little cautious and more reticent.

 Even though this granddaughter possesses a lot of natural talent, she is hesitant about sharing it. Getting up in front of people is hard for her even if she's doing something she's good at.

 She knows her capabilities but she also knows her anxiety levels. That doesn't prevent her from enjoying the acitivity but when it comes to 'recitals' or 'competitions' she has to back out. She is not comfortable with that.

 She does things her own way and I applaud that.

 She isn't being stubborn or even shy. She just knows herself.

 How does this apply to depression? Sure, as depression sufferers we share some of the same symptoms. Yes, we exhibit some similar behaviours. But we are unique and how we mix all of that together is up to us.

 What about you? Are you a researcher, a therapy groupie, a 'need to talk to a counsellor', or a loner? Know yourself and and base your choices on those things. Remember that just because something is a good idea doesn't mean it would be a good idea for you.

 Now for our three lessons on depression from 'Reticence':

 EXAMPLE: Does that therapy group make you feel totally rotten?
LESSON: Take it from 'Reticence' and hold back or just don't go. That 'uncomfortable' feeling could be natural discernment that this is not a good place for you to be right now.

 EXAMPLE: Do you feel uncomfortable telling people at work, especially your boss, that you have depression?
LESSON: Take if from 'Reticence' and wait until it feels right, or if it never feels right, keep it to yourself.

 EXAMPLE: Do you resent the well-meaning suggestions from others and wish they would just leave you alone?
LESSON: Take it from 'Reticence' and just do things your own way. You could simply say 'thanks for the idea, I will consider that'.

 Reticence follows her own conscience, not others. It's okay to do that. Even if someone gives you a good idea, that doesn't mean it will work for you. It's okay to say no.

 I know it's hard to trust your thoughts when you are depressed. This is an illness of irrational thoughts. But there are still times when you can and must trust your instincts. Your thoughts can't be wrong all the time, right?

 WHAT ABOUT YOU? How are you feeling today? Is there something you are reticent about right now? Do you need to heed that inner voice?

 Don't give up! There is hope for depression.



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