Aurora's Blog

I know that we all garden because we love flowers and plants, but I also garden for another reason as well.

I have Depression- I don't mind admitting that. In fact I wish more people who are would admit it to themselves and to others. I used to deny it, until on my daughter's 3rd birthday when I spent the entire day crying. That was when I finally admitted it to myself and sought the help that I so desperately needed. I'm not going to go into all the details, that's not necessary.

So, what does that have to do with gardening? I garden as a way to keep from becoming depressed, or to bring me out of a depression. For me, the work involved in planning, preparing, planting and taking care of flower beds is therapeutic mentally. The sweat and labor, the dirt and plants, and finally the joy of seeing them bloom make me realize that all is fine, and there's no need to be sad.

I absolutely love nurturing and caring for other living things, and knowing that my kids, animals, and gardens need me is what can help me to want to get out of bed in the morning.

I just wanted to share that bit of personal info about myself because I feel that it is important for others to understand that depression is an illness, it isn't anyone's fault that they have it. You don't need to pretend to be happy if you aren't, and get help if needed. You don't have to be sad. Then when you get back into your garden, you'll smile knowing that everything is just fine.