Maureen seems consumed with thoughts over her inadequacies this morning.  There is little doubt that she is reflecting of the visit of her son, and grandson yesterday.  She is on a guilt trip because she was no longer the perfect host, and had no gifts to exchange. Yet again I’m trying to put her negative thoughts into perspective, and steer her in a positive direction: just as she has done for me when I have been depressed.

I never thought those periods of depression, and there have been several, would come in so handy. One of my tasks is to help Maureen think her way out of being down in the dumps.  I was very fortunate that lots of skilled help was on hand to help me realise that ‘chemical imbalance’ wasn’t the issue: it was how I was dealing with my environment.  The same helpers are available to Maureen but unfortunately she has never shared her life with others: so it’s down to me to nudge her along.  I am fortunate that my helpers are there in the background, to coach me whenever I need them.

I know I go on about it but it isn’t surprising that Maureen is down in the dumps:  she has seen two of her children die; experienced a damaging marriage; seen her current husband attempt suicide; watched her daughter, and best friend, waste away; had stroke and lost 50% of her peripheral vision.  It isn’t surprising that she has her moments.  It’s now my turn to return the compliment, and help her find her way out of the dark tunnel of despair.