Have a disorder? Build a web site. Part One - Depression.

There is still a stigma surrounding mental disorders. Families whisper about the uncle in the psychiatric hospital for fear that the neighbors will hear. Self-help groups revolve around anonymity. Therapy may be chic in certain New York and Hollywood circles, but middle America still hides its face from these disorders. Its this changing? Why are consumers of mental health services ("patients") flaunting their disorders on the web?

There is less stigma, it seems, among the wired computer-literate generation. Much of the web is autobiographical, and many people's biography includes a diagnosis. These sites are also conceived to help others. There is information to help fellow consumers/patients, information for friends and family members, and information for the general public.

Several of these sites are featured in this series of articles, originally written in 1997. The articles have been updated (as recently as 2002) to be sure that the links still work.  As always, you will have the assistance of your guide as we explore the sites, but you will also be free to explore them yourself. 

Depression

One of the most common of mental disorders, depression is actually a group of disorders. It often has biochemical and psychological roots, and both antidepressant medications and psychotherapy are effective treatments.

Andrew's Depression Page is a great example to start with. Andrew is very clear on the motivation and purpose of his page, stating:

When I was finally properly diagnosed with major depression, I was compelled to learn more about this illness. This page was a result of my search for understanding. I have had so many wonderful responses to my page in the months that it has been up, and I thank everyone out there who has taken the time to let me know what you think. You have given me a sense of accomplishment that I would not have otherwise felt in this depression dulled existence.

His page is completely authentic, and he is quite open about the fact that he still struggles with depression. The following quote is an example of his honesty:

I'm still looking for the time and energy to update this page. My first priority is to update the Voices of Depression, then give this place a facelift. (Andrew's Depression Page, 2/97)

Voices of Depression is Andrew's collection of poetry and literature by depressed people. This is a growing collection, and the insights into people's lives add a dimension not found on other sites.

Andrew's site contains plenty of links to resources, along with excellent original content. It is a shining example of a consumer's site.

The Internet Depression Resources List was once another excellent consumer resource. Dennis Taylor put together an annotated list of resources throughout the web. The site no longer exists in the form that it once did, but Dennis still recommends some sites on his page.  Among these is Hole Boy - a consumer-created Online cartoon.

These are just two examples of consumer-written depression sites. Both of these sites have links to similar sites. Either is a great place to start exploring the internet's depression resources.

Other consumer sites:
Eating Disorders
Dissociative Disorders
Bipolar Disorder

Graphics used by permission of Andrews Depression Page.

Mental Health Resources Bookstore
Mental Health Search
Previous Features