It's not something I talk about very much (and for a long time not at all) because it’s not an illness that is easy to understand if you haven’t suffered it or know someone who has. I have even been told that depression doesn’t exist!

I suppose I was ashamed or embarrassed to admit that I had a mental illness. Would people judge me? Would they think that I was a less competent accountant?

But recently I have begun to think: What if depression is good for you? What if depression is a sign it is time to check out from your current life, take a break and make some changes?

I have the pandemic – or at least the lock-in – to thank for this.

What if, when you feel depressed, it’s a sign that it’s time for deep rest. Deep rest = long walks, daily meditation, 8+ hours of sleep, afternoon naps (without the guilt), regular reading, time with your family, a period of work without reward, time to help someone and ask for nothing in return.

I have been able to do all these things during the last six months and still work most days. Am I cured? I doubt it. Do I feel better? Absolutely.

I know that for a lot of people the pandemic has done just the opposite and been a period of great stress. I do not underestimate the huge toll that depression takes on many, many people every day. But being prepared to show yourself and be accepted for who you are just may help.

Stay safe.

Noel Guilford