I just did a site/forum search under "Photography and Depression" and found that nothing has been mentioned as far as the record indicates.
These two topics, in context of one another, are interesting to me. I have been a sufferer of chronic/clinical depression, on and off, for more years than I care to contemplate. My feelings are, first, that this kind of brain malfunction really sucks, and second, photography sure as hell offers a wonderful escape and respite. Many have self-medicated for the pain of depression with alcohol and/or drugs. I feel fortunate to have discovered photography!
Just a few months ago I bought a 7x17 Folmer-Schwing from Jim Galli and I love it. But I've been struggling since then to get the project off the ground. I've had lensboards fabricated and have mounted a lens. But I haven't had the mental energy (typical of depression) to follow-thru on required developing tube, chemistry purchases, checks for light-tightness of bellows and holder, etc., etc.
Versus responders who might say, "Snap out of it!" or "Stop with the complaining, already!," I would prefer responses from those who might know, experientially, what I'm talking about.
I fall asleep at night imagining the photographs I'm going to make and hoping I'll be able to make them soon. Maybe we could encourage each other.
So I sit and look at the camera mounted on tripod next to the 8x10 imagining what it's going to be like once I swing back in mood. Then maybe I can concentrate sufficiently to resume making photographs.
If any care to, you may feel free to contact me off-line.
Robert McClure - Atlanta
Bookmarks