Of course, for some of us, feeling sick is a chronic condition. I was overwhelmed by all the comments to my post “Chronic Pain and Depression: The Gift of Gab and God.” So many people are in so much pain. For those of you who experience chronic pain in addition to depression, you might want to read the stories on the combox of that post. I especially liked this one from Beyond Blue reader Jan:

I have a lot of hip pain . But I have to focus on the good and wonderful things in life otherwise I too would be overwhelmed by depression. I encourage each of you to find a hobby of volunteer to work in the school and help children. They will help you relive your lives. Their ability to bounce back and find joy in everything will help you to experience happiness again. I am a teacher and I love going to work each day. I sometimes want to call in sick but I know that the pleasure I get at work each day is much better than the rest I would get if I stayed home. If you don’t like children then volunteer at something you enjoy and you will have a reason to live.