Figuring out the cause of a relapse, or even a rough spot bordering on relapse, is a bit like solving a riddle or working on a hard crossword puzzle. It’s like a long, dreaded hour in Advanced Calculus class (even though, you know, I never made it to that room). There are the new triggers. For me that’s grieving my recreational sport I so enjoyed–running–because I want to avoid a hip replacement at all cost. Reading my junior-high journals and processing those painful memories didn’t help. But there are the regulars, who lurk behind most of my dark patches…a denial of my illness, the misconception that I am the dirty-blonde version of Wonder Woman, and, of course, unrealistic expectations. I so appreciate your help navigating through this forest of fears. So, listen up for some of your own wisdom.

* Click here to subscribe to Beyond Blue and click here to follow Therese on Twitter and click here to join Group Beyond Blue, a depression support group. Now stop clicking.