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Once, when I was explaining my depression to someone, the person suggested all the reasons why I should not be depressed. "After all, some people battle life-threatening illness every day." That seemed reasonable to me. But then, I realize that depression (or in this case, bipolar disorder) is a life-threatening illness. For example, if one gets the urge to jump in front of the oncoming A train, that is life-threatening. And I am not trying to shock or be dramatic. I am just telling the truth.