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Sertraline hydrochloride (trademark names Zoloft and Lustral) is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. Source
This article isn't about Zoloft--it's about depression. Perhaps this isn't the most upbeat topic to end the A-Z Challenge with, but depression is a very real issue in general, and it can also affect some writers.
Did you know that according to health.com writing falls into a group of ten careers with the highest rates of depression? As writers we have to be troopers because the rejection rate is high, and in addition, the isolation of writing can contribute to depression as well.
I'm not going to go into a big speech here on the subject because there is a well-written article about the topic at Romance and Beyond. I encourage you to read it if you, or another writing buddy of yours may experience depression.
And remember there is always hope. Depression can be defeated, and one rejection or a thousand rejections doesn't make you any less of a writer! It only means you're determined.
It's been a blast. Welcome new followers. New articles posted every Wednesday.
-Siobhan-
Excellent post - I don't suffer from depression have more ups and downs mood-wise since I began writing than at any other time. Rejections are hard to take - if only we all had a 'so what?' switch!
ReplyDeleteHi Linda.
ReplyDeleteIt's hard to turn our emotions on and off and just say 'so what?' in light of rejection, but if writing is one of the things that matters to us, I do believe we can push past our emotions and write anyway, even if that's really hard to do. Perhaps we can channel those moods into our characters?
If someone is actually suffering with depression though, and just happens to be a writer, then seeking professional advice and other good support systems like church, family and/or friends are good options. Thanks for your comment ;)
Zoloft had helped many people. Just stopping by to say hi on the challenge.
ReplyDeleteHi Kathi ... welcome!
DeleteDepression is an illness like any other. If there's a medication that will help, then why not take it? Who would ever not want to 'feel better'?
ReplyDeleteGood for you for posting about it. Best of luck with your writing.
Congratulations on completing the Challenge and for being one of Thelmaz 26! I'm a new follower from your near province of New Brunswick!!
Kathy at Oak Lawn Images
Welcome, Kathy. Thank you for your comment ;)
DeleteI'm extremely skeptical of a medicine that will affect my brain, my thoughts and feelings. I know people who have taken anti-depressants and been forever changed by them, and not in a positive way. They have their place as a last resort but they are way over-prescribed.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comment, Jen.
DeleteI think each individual's case is different and we need to take that into account. It is true that prescription drugs can be over-prescribed, but it is also true that some people who have a severe mental illness may need a prescription as a first resort in order to assist them with functioning so they can seek additional help.
Do I think prescription drugs are perfect? Nope. But then again, I'm not sure what perfect looks like ... I don't believe the issue is black and white. Perhaps various shades of grey?