Oh Steve, so many of us know just how you feel. My brain injury left me with that terrible combo: severe depression and anxiety attacks. I find that my worst panics happen in the dead of night. I used to lie there and stew. I don't need to tell anybody how horrible that is.

Now, when it happens I get up immediately. For some reason, nothing is quite as bad with the lights on. I keep a bunch of things ready on the coffee table (a bit of candy, a crossword puzzle book, a photo album of my daughter, etc...)that either soothe me, distract me or remind me of my joys and responsibilities. This helps me. At the very least, it makes me like I'm fighting back - instead of just lying there taking it.

Steve, we know it's hard. I hope it helps to know that we're all pulling for you.

STRENGTH