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I have often read that animals help people with medical conditions by reducing stress levels.  One of those conditions is mental health. There are many articles out there that have medical backing showing that having a pet can help with depression.  I never really thought about it before but most of the people I know that do suffer with this illness do also have pets. My life isn't complete without a dog, my own little fur baby, oh go on I admit it I am a dog person (not a surprise for those that know me).  I never understand people that don't like dogs or are irrationally scared of them.  I don't understand how people cannot open their heart to a pooch.  I definitely don't understand animal abuse. Hate breeds hate. Dogs aren't bad they just need the right owners. For me they always worm their way in to my heart and I love them even more for that.   Maybe it is for selfish reasons that I need a dog in my life, the unconditional love, the fact that...

My Granny used to always say we should paint on our mask. Put on our war paint and confront the day. Ok so I don't trowel on the make up but I always (well nearly always) have a smile on my face and a laugh in my chest.   Sometimes, though, it slips. My smile is lost and the laugh has flown the nest (chest as it were). It may slip for a short time or a more prolonged period however I know that one day it will be back. How I get it back I am never sure.  Maybe it will be something my little girl does that makes my heart melt, or spaghetti bolognese cooked by my boyfriend, a glass of wine with a friend, a cup of coffee, a natter with the mummies or some time with my pole sisters. Whatever wings bring my smile back they are always welcomed with open arms. Who knows how long it will stay. 

It's important to remember that it is ok to be happy too. If small minded people think that seeing you smile means that you are fixed then that is up to them.  That is their mistake. Not yours.  Just like it is ok to smile at a funeral, or laugh at a wake, at fond memories you share of the deceased. It is ok to enjoy yourself when suffering with depression.  No you are not fixed. You are just able to see a glimpse of the light at the end of the tunnel.  Depression isn't a constant down mood or need to cry. It is a shroud you carry, heavy over your body, each and everyday.  So smile, laugh, if you want to.  It is going to be ok some day.