Carol Christopher's Story

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

I have been depressed since I was a child. I can remember feeling like I did not belong anywhere. I had very high anxiety and depression. I was very quiet and shy. I could not socialize very well, but I eventually learned to socialize somewhat, but I hid my anxiety and depression.

As a teenager, I turned to alcohol and drugs to make me feel better, and I continued drinking until I was about 45. The drugs are over, but I still indulge in marijuana because it does more for me than any medication I have been prescribed.

Who has been there for you? How?

My children have always been there for me. I have a few friends who have stuck with me. I have had many dogs in my life, and they have always been there for me, never judging.

What lifestyle changes have you needed to make?

Stop drinking, drugs and the whole lifestyle.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

I was in the Air Force and raised my daughter, by myself, for five years. I have learned that I am a part of this great universe and learned that I create my reality with my thoughts. Becoming more of a spiritual person has helped my depression.

What's your advice to someone else living with Depression?

It's a long road for someone born depressed, but you must learn to channel your positive thoughts and try your best to let go of the negative. Realize that this higher power has given us all this wonderful ability to create our own reality.