Is it normal to be this depressed?

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8 Comments

For a while I've been really interested in computer programming and learning more and more about it; I would even code for hours without getting bored.

Then, I picked up The Stranger by Albert Camus; after finishing it and doing more research on existential nihilism and absurdism I became a bit depressed. Things that once got all my attention now seemed irrelevant and futile. I think that I'm going in the right direction as I don't feel as depressed now, but I can't get my interest for science and programming back.

I am worried because this is a field where you need to devote yourself and work hard. If I encounter more obstacles of this sort in the future I believe it'll be very hard for me.

Do you think it's only a temporary lack of interest or something more serious?

Thanks

Voting Results
88% Normal
Based on 33 votes (29 yes)
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Comments ( 8 )
  • bobmcay
    12 years ago

    smoke some weed

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  • TheSecret
    11 years ago

    What's the book about?

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  • Pseudo
    12 years ago

    I've read The Stranger as well and things did seem futile for a while, but now I'm back to investing my time into things I think matter to me. If there is really no point to life, then why not have some fun with it while you're here?

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  • Kerris
    12 years ago

    You might have a medical disorder. Some illnesses cause chronic depression. See a doctor.

    Otherwise, if you are fine health-wise, you might jump start your interest in programming by visiting forums and IRCs dedicated to this topic.

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  • buckman
    12 years ago

    Idk... My cousin was going to school to learn about religion stuff and be a minister or something, his first semester he stopped believing in god and started doing drugs. Now he's going for elementary school teacher or something. (like I'd want that around my kids..)
    I think it's normal to change your mind and lose interest after being exposed to new things.

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  • asdf90091
    12 years ago

    I'm a programmer myself and I get like that too sometimes, especially when I'm depressed. It always comes back though.

    Try finding a new hobby and coming back to it after a week or so.

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  • [Old Memory]
    12 years ago

    I have felt like this with some of my hobbies it's nothing to worry about, maybe take a break from it for a while

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  • InsertBlankHere
    12 years ago

    Why do I say it's normal? Because people get down sometimes.

    However, just give up on nihilism. It's not worth looking into. If you're into different schools of philosophy, give this a try: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism

    If you think that you've lost your interest in computer science because you've been given a new perspective, then... well just stick with it, right? You've invested this much time in it; may as well get a degree, even if it's in something you're not sure you want to do. At the least, you can work in computer science while studying whatever else it is that catches your fancy.
    BTW, what is it that seems so absurd about programming? I'm just curious on your take. I myself was interested in it as I'm pretty good with computers, but then I realized I didn't want to sit on my ass all day to achieve the end result of earning a pay check, and putting money in the ceo's pocket. If you're searching for meaning, then consider an occupation that actually helps people, such as medicine, or rescue work. Food bank? Work for a charity?
    Just some thoughts.

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