Ideosyncratic coping strategies

Depression Coping Skills

When I feel I am reaching an unhealthy level of sadness, I switch into depression coping skills mode, what I have learned in years of therapy to balance myself without increasing medication.

Waiting, Writing, Hoping / Esperando, Escribiendo con Esperanza

Chainsaw on tree limb, a mulching truck on the driveway, the rumpus of men shouting instructions and warnings, branches falling from the canopy of an old eucalyptus to the right of my house. My attention runs from the house away from the noise, while I remain inside trapped, unemployed, waiting for calls that never arrive.

Sing If It Hurts / Canta Si Duele

During last week, I helped my youngest son pack for college: clothes, bike, passport, and computer. I saw him fold his new sheets, and pack the microwave safe bowls, and his guitar, thrilled with the enthusiasm of a 17 years old who is going away for good. Last Saturday I posted a message on Facebook,…