Welcome to the June 26, 2007 edition of carnival of depression, bipolar disorder, and mental health journeys. Here are my four selections for this edition of the carnival. Entries were chosen based on original content, theme relevance, and “personality”. Congratulations to Mercurial Scribe, BP Professional, Chris614, and James Bishop.

mercurial scribe is not feeling that great due to the seasonal change. Some people are especially prone to seasonal-related mood changes, and for some, symptoms may be triggered by weather changes. I personally love the time when weather becomes warmer and the sun is out earlier and longer, and those who experience symptoms associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder find they may need a certain amount of (sun) light to feel well. For others, like the mercurial scribe, the changing season brings a change in mood that may be dark. Hang tough, mercurial scribe. (more…)

Welcome to the June 5, 2007 edition of carnival of depression, bipolar disorder, and mental health journeys.

In the depression category, Angela presents an important topic for women who are pregnant or have just delivered. For more information about this subject, please read my comprehensive review of the book, A Deeper Shade of Blue.

Jeff gives an honest and reflective look at the question, “am I depressed, and is this the kind that requires medication?” I find some of us migrate toward extremes - either denying there is any problem and refusing to seek help - or immediately labeling ourselves with multiple illnesses and begging for pills. We can save ourselves a lot of grief (not to mention risks of side effects) by spending some time asking ourselves some tough questions. (more…)