This week, we had the nightmare of our presidential election in the middle of one of my deepest depressions. My understanding of and ability to live with depression has once again proven to be a real asset for me. It again helped me through a very difficult time and gave me a clarity that helped me to process the anxiety, fear, and pain of being on the losing side. It also helped me better understand the other side of the debate.
My sister died in my arms last June in the middle of one of the deepest impressions of my life. The fact that I understand depression and I have learned to live with it instead of against it made my depression an asset for my entire family instead of the burden that my depression once was.
This election-infused depression was not normal for me. Because of the prevalent election anxiety among so many people on the left and the right, I was experiencing levels of anxiety that I never had before. I also got the chance to explore my fears in a way that has led to a better understanding of both anxiety and fear along with the positive outcomes that are available to all of us.
