This is part eight of a series where I attempt to articulate the invisible torments that pursue humanity - both physical and emotional.
Melancholia – the curse of poets, artists, sensitive souls, and dare I say it? Nearly everyone I have known. A paralysing sensation of despair, lack of purpose, self loathing and emptiness. The rest of the world becomes a grey noise and you feel yourself being pulled into a self perpetuating spiral.
Some experience this for most of their lives, whereas others may experience brief but crippling bouts. It may be triggered by events, grief, trauma, abuse or it can be part of the brain's inability to produce the right hormones and unrelated to external factors.
Regardless of why, where or how, it is easy to become sucked into a void of solitude, avoiding situations where a mask of normality and happiness is required. Knowing that 'you have no reason to be sad', and being reminded of this by others leaves a crushing pressure as a blanket of guilt is laid over your sorrow.
Before you reach that point, where pulling off the blanket and attempting to rise becomes unfathomable, try to reach out. Find the right hand to hold, and the right ears to listen, and remember that the people around you, need and love you.
Beyond Blue, Lifeline and Black Dog Institute are here when the going gets tough, but sometimes a furry friend, a non-judgemental ear can ease the pain.
Glazed ceramic with enamel detail.
20cm x 19cm x 9cm