28 Comments
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Vincent Neep's avatar

No apology needed you do what you have to do to help yourself and come out the others side,

you’ll know when your ready🙏💜

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Patricia Bailey's avatar

I'm sorry you've been caught by depression - and grateful you shared your experience. Thanks for your honesty. The world needs more of that. Please continue taking care. <3

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Deborah S's avatar

No apology needed, and I’m sorry to hear how you’ve been. I’m sure it will pass eventually, and I’m glad to hear you can take care of yourself and allow others to support you in the meantime. The garden will continue until you’re ready for it

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Beth Alexander's avatar

I wish you a safe and gentle return from the dark place and cloudy mind xx

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Paul Davis's avatar

So sorry to hear this Elliott. I hope you get well again soon. The ‘black dog’ is a cunning and powerful adversary (although I hasten to add that dogs [and cats] are generally a brilliant tonic when we’re down!) Best wishes, Paul.

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Caroline Hird's avatar

No apology needed, ever. Your writing, whenever it arrives, is so valuable and also honest. I just love reading it when it's in my inbox, no matter how sporadically. Over here in London the hedgehogs are mostly sleeping but Hellebores are flowering, and we will hear from you again when you feel strong enough.

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Clare Foster's avatar

So sorry to hear this. You are not alone! I also struggle at this time of year, but depression just touches the edges for me - it's a damp grey mist rather than a deep black cloud. I lose the joy in autumn, it just goes away. I go through the motions of normal life but I feel like I'm swimming through treacle, and sometimes it's such an effort to appear cheerful. But for me, gardening does help if I can force myself out there. I spent the day dividing perennials yesterday and came in feeling so much better. The good thing about this time of year is that you CAN leave the garden to its own devices if you need to. It will just do its own thing and be there for when you can face it again. Sending positive thoughts over the internet! x

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Lynne's avatar

I think everyone understands how hard it has been, and appreciates that you’ve been able to write this post. Take time for yourself - we’ll be here when you get back

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Robert Gibbons's avatar

I’ve been there, and know how difficult depression can be.

Stay strong.

Spring is just around the corner. Both in the garden, and in the mind. 🌱🌷

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Anne Wareham's avatar

So sorry to hear this. No need to apologise or to force yourself to do stuff when under a cloud like that. I do hope the cloud lifts soon.

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JP Clark's avatar

Take your time. Xx

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Norah Holder's avatar

I was concerned when your writing ceased and thought you may be experiencing a rough time. So glad you have reached out and that you are engaged in a schedule/activities that promote your mental health. Sending positive thoughts and kind words to you from across the pond here in Canada. Be well and do continue to care for yourself. 🙏

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Kristin Case's avatar

Sending light and love your way.

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Sam Culliton's avatar

You are loved and absolutely no apology is needed. Focus on you.

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Tricia Raney's avatar

Dear Elliot,

You don't need to apologise, you are amongst gardening friends here. I am so sorry that you're going through this and thank you for sharing why we haven't seen you. Please look after yourself and we will look forward to hearing from you again when you're ready.💚

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Dorle's avatar

Thank you for the time and power you took to write us, cause your advices are so helpful and I think you are doing a very good job on yourself! Sending you love. 💝

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