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the wider effects of the disease, we could stop the black dog in its tracks.
The main thing that has helped me to stay healthy and happy while caring for a family member, a sufferer of severe depression, and also my close friend, was information. If I did not know of the existence of clinical depression, or if I didn't believe these people were depressed, I would have blamed myself and probably ended up depressed. This is why I believe it is crucial to inform the community as much as possible about this terrible illness. It is also important to publicise the concept of codependency. I once walked into a book store and asked for information on codependency and no one in the shop knew what it was.

People caring for depressed people should also have more support. Although there are a massive number of books and websites set up for sufferers, there are a pitifully small number that cater for their families. Most of those that exist seem to me to be mildly accusatory in their tone- suggesting that you should work "just a little harder" to keep the sufferer happy. This is important, but too much of this encourages co-dependency.
Because it is a stressful and often full-time job caring for depressed people, I think it is crucial for their family and friends to take advantage of the opportunities offered to them within our community to have a break from their caring role. Even daily meditation and time out from the day-to-day stresses we all experience can make a difference.
My final suggestion is that we take steps to limit stress. There are definite links between stress and the function of neurotransmitters- and therefore, stress and depression. And it's not just stress either- the twenty-first century is full of possible causes of depression.
Stress, family breakdowns, friends, relationships, career issues, even welfare dependency- these things have all been linked to depression. That may sound disheartening, but knowledge is power!
Here's a thought: How can we limit these numerous factors? How can we bring back the values of peace, love and harmony within the household, workplace and community? How can we recognise the silent army, mobilise against the guerrilla and defeat this terrible family illness?

Learn more about this author, Carla Donahue.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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