“… a friend told me about Depressed Anonymous and I was so desperate that I went. To my surprise, these wonderful people accepted me, all of me for myself. They encouraged me right from the start. They were open and honest about their pain and constantly reassured me that I could make it. But I would have to work very hard, because you have to really fight depression – negative thoughts replaced by positive thoughts –action to create motivation. Most of all, I had to surrender to God, quit controlling everything and everyone, including God. Let go and let God! So I started reading the Twelve Steps. At first I was really rebellious, so much so that I didn’t go back for two weeks. I was too depressed, but inside I knew the Steps had the key to get me out of this prison. They pointed me to my Higher Power, which unashamedly is Jesus Christ. Now I attend every meeting, sharing the things I learned and the times I fail (which are still quite a few) into depression. But it is working and I could not be writing this right now if it was not for the love and the support of these very special people. As a matter of fact, I told them once a week was not enough for me. The leader suggested that I start another one which is just what I have done. I now attend the meetings twice a week–twice is nice.
To sum it up, Depressed Anonymous has pointed to the only hope there is – our Higher Power is the only way out. Our Higher Power is the key, the life and the hope. And once I have been able to admit that, everyone in the group has been very loving and supportive. After all, they have all been where I am today.
-Linda’s story as presented in the Personal Stories section of Depressed Anonymous, 3rd edition (2011). Depressed Anonymous Publications. Louisville, KY. 40217. Pages 116-117.