I LOST MY 30'S... A little blog about a big topic - mental health, emotional and mental illness, suicide prevention and awareness and the challenges and realities faced by those living with the diseases, and the family and friends who love them. So who am I and why am I writing this? Pretty simple, I'm a typical 39 year old - college educated, Caucasian female raised in a pretty typical middle class family - who fell into a deep depression at 33. For more than 19 years, I have tried numerous therapies, medications, and alternative therapies. After an unsuccessful suicide attempt in March 2013, I am in the infancy stages of recovery. Most recently, I began Electro-Convulsive Therapy (ECT) which is showing positive results. My official diagnosis is Recurrent Major (medication resistant) Depressive Disorder. I also experience anxiety, panic attacks, and compulsive and addictive behavior. The thing that has given me most piece of mind - is connecting with other people who feel or experience the same frustrations and emotions as I do and writing about my experience. With the encouragement of some very beloved friends, I created this blog in hopes of connecting with other women and men feeling the feelings of depression - and other mood disorders - and who are experiencing the devastating effects of those illnesses. My email address is ilostmy30s@gmail.com. I welcome questions, feedback, reading suggestions, hearing about your personal experience and helpful resources. Here's to self-expression, education, and ease of mind and heart. May my burden be your burden, and yours be mine. All my best wishes, Bijou ~