Hi @samanthajbarnes thank you for your kind words, re 'the light at the end of the tunnel'. I know this article may seem to express depression as a constant struggle but there have been times in my life where I have been in such a good place that it hasn't been that much of an issue. However, it has always been bubbling under the surface and I think it is an empowering thing to recognize and realize that this might be the case for ever, finding the ways to deal with it.
I have become progressively better at this throughout my life and am making a major lifestyle change at the end of the year which I am pretty sure is going to help me move beyond it even more.
I'm glad you enjoyed the poetry reading on the whaleshares show :-) I love reading poetry out at poetry nights but get very nervious on stage with a microphone. For some reason this doesn't translate on the mic in the chatroom, it felt really comfortable and I enjoyed sharing my words in a more personal way.
Thanks for the resteem and follow, I am following you also and shall be sure to check out some of your blog posts :-)
Finding ways to deal with it are the key. For me, that came by consciously choosing a different thought...something soothing or even distracting. Engaging in something that would take my mind to another place...a better place where I could breathe has been quite an enlightening experience for me. Some days, that time in the "better place" was short but it was something! Gradually, I have found ways to stay there longer. What a gift I have given to myself! Be gentle with yourself as you go. You will learn so much and find that the power within you is far greater than you ever would allow yourself to imagine.
I'm so glad you felt at ease reading your poetry...you seemed to be in the zone. :) Keep up the inspiring work!