I have been doing alot of research on this. I have also been tracking it for about 20 years. I am unresponsive to antidepressants. Recently, I have consulted with doctors and scientists at research hospitals. New and very strong evidence is emerging that people are being diagnosed with depression when in fact, depression is just a symptom of bi product of sensitivity to various other stimuli. I suffer from SADs so badly, I can tell whether the sun is out while in a controlled environment with no access to windows. I can tell instantly when it comes out and when it goes in. Barometric pressure is the same way. It was interesting to hear about a connection with quite a few of you about a back condition. I have spondylothesis, an inherited condition that usually goes undetected unless you injure it. (IE: I strongly suggest if it runs in your family to avoid skydiving, as the only treatment is to maintain some serious back and ab muscles for the rest of your life.) I have had the condition my entire life, and my injury occurred when I was 15. I have never discussed this with doctors.

I also injured my ear when I was probably 9. I have baro-trauma where fluid leaks from the inner ear to the middle ear. When I was younger, it would cause acne like lumps behind my ears that were gross when they would drain. I have never been treated for this.

In addition, I have always had a difficult time breathing through my nose. When I am horizontal, my nasal passages completely close. It is documented that people who breath mostly through their mouth are more prone to low moods.

The docs and scientist I am working with now think this might all be connected. I am going to go have my ears, nose and sinuses worked on. They aren't sure what they are going to do, because they really aren't sure what is going on.

I am 46 and have been to numerous doctors all of my life who said there was nothing wrong with me, go to a shrink and get on an antidepressant. This infuriates me.

It will probably be March before I am able to have the work done, but I will note my calendar to come back and post the outcome!

I know how horrible feeling down, tired, paralyzed, miserable, hopeless, etc. is. I have contemplated moving to the equator to have 12 hours of daylight every day! (haha)

My sincere understanding goes out to all of you.