Is it normal that my depression goes away when i help other people?

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I have struggled with depression for years, and I have even attempted suicide once. However, when it didn't work the first time I had this feeling that I didn't want my life to be wasted. I didn't know how much longer I could hold on, but I knew that however long that was, I would want to have done at least some good with my life. So I started helping other people who are feeling the same way. I still deal with depression, but when someone writes or talks to me, and I manage to help them, things don't seem that bad. When people tell me that I have saved their lives, I feel like maybe, just maybe, my life has a purpose, and suddenly I don't feel depressed anymore, even if just for a little while. Is that normal?

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Comments ( 6 ) Sort: best | oldest
  • bigtoy
    11 years ago | pl

    Don't listen to the other posters. Helping others is the best cure for depression. It really improves your feeling of self worth better than any drug could. Keep it up. I'm always helping people out where I can and I really like it when someone calls me over to give them a hand especially with building work which challenges the mind and body. You're on the right track.

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  • SoccerStud88
    11 years ago | pl

    fuck em just be depressed

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  • cosmiccitizen
    8 years ago | pl

    Helping others in the proper way brings in Love energies into oneself and also helps in reducing depression. You are on the right track.

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  • Robinhood
    11 years ago | pl

    Perhaps you have finally " heard your calling"? It is true that when someone has depression and finds a way to help others, it does release seratonin ( the good feeling hormones) in the brain, and makes them feel good. I for one can attest to that, as I have suffered clinical depression for years.

    I don't know your age, but it might be a calling to take a course in something like " social worker", to continue your work as a helper here on earth! You would make a lot of people happy and at the same time it would give you a sense of achievement and happiness as well!

    Good job and keep up the good work! I am proud of you!

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  • squeallikeasacofpigs
    11 years ago | pl

    Doesnt sound like your the best person to accept advise from when you TRIED TO KILL YOURSELF!!!! Wtf dude, seriously

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    • Anonymous Post Author
      11 years ago | pl

      But I did what most people in my position don't do. I GOT HELP! And now I try to get others to do the same. You have no idea how many people have sent me letters or e-mails saying that after speaking to me they decided to get help themselves and now they are alive because of me. I help people, and it's worth it, even if there will always be ignorant people like you who don't appreciate what some people do for others.

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