introduction

to anyone who might be reading this, I'd like to introduce myself.

hi. my name is Rachel, I'm 18 years old, and I struggle with depression.

I'm not sure how long this has been going on. I've had random depressive episodes about once a year since I was 14, but after a few months of declining mood I slipped into a severe depressive crisis 4 weeks and 4 days ago.

before I go into the details of this disorder, its causes, and the treatment I am seeking, I'd like to explain the purpose of this blog. essentially, I've always liked the idea of keeping a journal, but I'm bad at it. I'm bad at blogging too, but I type faster. so this blog is going to be one therapeutic method I use to cope with the depression and to track my recovery, as well as the various complications I suffer from a compounding anxiety disorder. also, while going through the darkest days of my life (2-3 weeks ago = worst point), I scanned the internet for depression survival stories, and not much useful information came up. so this is to serve as a resource to anyone who needs encouragement, support, or just the assurance that they don't have to fight alone. I don't mean to portray myself as a saint, but I'd like to help other people suffering from this issue since I know how terrible and debilitating it can be.

that being said, let the blogging begin.

- Rachel