NAFDI NEWS
Volume 29, Fall 2000


REAL STORIES
The following are excerpts from some of the letters we receive continually. We hope you find them helpful.

I was diagnosed as a bi-polar [manic depression] sufferer nearly three years ago, and though I searched for information regarding the illness then, it was only a half-hearted attempt because I was very ill.

Now though I would not say I was 100% I am well enough to now try and get a life back. This I have done by going back to college (I am 35 years old). I am studying to be a medical secretary. Part of my course is to do a project and I have chosen to do my illness. Mainly because obviously I am not a totally well person, but also I have decided to try and find out a lot more about the illness. Many thanks and I look forward to hearing from you.
JB in the UK
 

It was light weight, silver w/ a black handle. It fit very well just below my chin. He sold me hollow point bullets. They have good "stopping power." I was so close. A friend came over, we had pizza. She took it with her.
GW in TX
 

It was very rough when my children were teenagers. They tried to understand but found it very difficult. Things have improved as they've gotten older, and as I've found more effective treatments.

I am blessed with a husband of 46 years who has been extremely positive and helpful in seeing through my several episodes of this illness. We found that my depression can be dealt with using medications, psychotherapy, and lastly ETC. My latest round of ECT was in 1998. I've been a recipient 3x and am doing well!
SM in NY



copyright 2000, The National Foundation for Depressive Illness, Inc.
Reproduction is permitted, with proper reference to source.