Like A Vampire

I have a friend who suffers from depression. When I first met him, he always talked about how depressed he is. He is often lethargic, his voice monotone, and speaking seems to be an effort for him. He sleeps all day and is up all night. He lives like a vampire; venturing out to get something to eat and go to the movies every night - only to be awash in darkness again. He only goes out into daylight for emergencies or if he can’t sleep. He sometimes makes thrice weekly forays to Magnolia Bakery or Amy’s Bread for their cookies and cupcakes.

I have told him that he won’t be able to sleep away his depression. It will only get worse. I reminded him that he is always talking about how depressed he is and maybe he should talk to his therapist about his meds. I also told him that he needed to get up and get out into the day. Get at least a half hour of sunlight, exercise, eat better, and take Vitamin B Stress and Vitamin D for starters. Sometimes, I just want to shake him and tell him to snap out of it.


But, then I remember not too long ago, I was in the same predicament. I too would sleep all day and stay up all night. Daily eat dessert for the temporary high sugar would give me. Play hours of Scrabble and Spider Solitaire on my computer far into the night. When I finally got up, the sun would be going down, and I too walked the streets of Manhattan like a vampire.


Depression can envelope you in a dark and murky haze. Color your sensibilities in a negative prism that shatters your ability to see anything straight or think rationally. I just hope he doesn’t one day wake up and realize the hours, months, and years he has lost to depression like I have. I can only pray for him and guide him the best way I know, in hope that he will one day take the necessary steps to get better.