August, 2022 KELLEY KIDD This little piece of nonfiction has been written for a dear friend of mine who has suffered from depression. The thesis is that I avoid depression through certain habits and attitudes and practices which might wok for her. We are similarly situated in several ways as Jews, adults without partners, alcoholics in Alcoholics Anonymous, liberals and dog owners. Neither of us is athletic and neither are members of active social clubs. Neither are avid fans of any sports team or other athletic competitor. Neither live for new movies or social events, theatrical productions or TV series. Neither have children to raise or to baby sit frequently, are glued to new musical performances or other entertainers. Both are literate and capable of fairly good health. So…similarly situated in many ways. I have not had as much as a day of depression in many decades. This piece is about some of the things I do and don’t do that I believe help me to avoid depression.
First, I have regular habits for regular life functions. I sleep about 8 hours every night and nap some when I can in the middle of the day, eat regular balanced meals, use Milk of Magnesia at about the same tim every day to eliminate waste again at about the same time daily, walk on my treadmill a set distance every day, wash and brush my teeth at regular times as well. I take certain medications as prescribed and have a set pattern for keeping my hearing aids refreshed. This regularity is as important as the functions it maintains. For irregularity is the mother of uncertainty and discomfort, who are messengers of depression.
Whenever I start to feel down I try to remember all of the wonderful creations I share this planet with —including my dear friend. I also remember that life is inevitably short and I am presently blessed with the health and faculties needed to appreciate it. Then i pray that I will be shown the tasks today that I can do to improve the quality of life for my pets, my friends and those I care about.
Journal of Public Law 