Your blog writings are most times technical jabs that soon follow through with knockout punches.I feel the full brunt force. Sincerely,David

Most of your posts are quite depressing. Has your research ever created uplifting results?

I see the fellow you discussed depression with on NPR has his own blog.I read it and fell asleep half way through. All that education and experience and such predictable thoughts. Sincerely,David

On the subject of uplifting results versus depressing ones:
Depression is a depressing subject by nature! Especially when you see really bad damage that ruins lives. But while I was reading through this post I had a mixture of feelings.

I was thinking of the damage I probably have sustained through traumatic events in my life, the genetics I inherited that may give me a higher risk of depression, and comparing that with other people I know. My mother's life was ruined by an intractable depression, and I am aware that I may be at risk. But now I read that tragic or stressful events cause physical, genetic changes as well. This makes me feel more like we all have these marks on our brains, some more, some less, but we can deal with them through therapy, medication, and other means. It feels to me like it's all a part of being human. It gives me a broader perspective. I find that uplifting, or at least, not depressing!

To Margy: did you also read that according to these men the damage is irreparable? That sounds pretty pessimistic to me!

There are scientists like Dr. Davidson* who believe the oppossite is true. That is much more uplifting! Their research is based on scientific evidence as well.

* http://psyphz.psych.wisc.edu/

I've seen uplifting results in the chronically depressed when they take the brain saving,personality altering,ethics adhering medicine called Prozac. There's nothing more hopeful than knowing that depressed people may have a chance at another life opposed to the unethical and probably criminal life their leading.If you need a pep talk about depression go to Jim ( more pushups) Gordon's website.He will tell you all you want to here as your brain wastes away. Peter Kramer helps people,that other guy helps himself. Hope that wasn't too crabby. With fondness,David

Prozac does not change your personality. Ethics adhering? What kind of ethics are you talking about? So you are saying depressed people are leading an unethical and criminal life?

Haha, that would explain his comments.

If people with depression, don't have personality problems and ethical problems then there's no need to cure depression. Then do we let them rot? or should i say let you rot.I think your worth saving,especially with such a nice lexicon. Sincerely-David