  Depression is a life altering condition. It can turn every day activities into insurmountable obstacles.
It can destroy relationships and drive friends and relatives away. At first there is sympathy and support, often given with a flavouring of puzzlement and uncertainty. Helpful advice is offered, a cheerful chivying tone adopted. 'Nothing is ever as bad as it seems. ' 'You just have to look at the positive side of things. ' 'Count your blessings, there are many people far worse off than you.
' 'Feeling sorry for yourself achieves nothing. ' 'Just pull yourself together and smile. ' Besides, there is a pill for everything these days. Fill the perscription, swallow the tablet and you are cured. Gradually, impatience, irritation, begins to replace the sympathy. Weeks have gone by, perhaps months and even those closest to you are tired of making allowances. Phrases like 'self indulgent', 'self absorbed' and 'attention seeking' are heard more and more often.
A depressed person is not appealing company. There is no visible wound or injury that can account for the symptoms. People begin to drift away. Quietly, imperceptably. Or with slammed doors and harsh words. Isolation snaps shut around you like a trap. 
