In these short dark days of the Northern Hemisphere, when everyone is supposed to be happy, there are a significant number of people who are depressed by the lack of light, the commercialism, life in general. Posting this video here is a little present for such people and for anyone who has ever been depressed, whether clinically or temporarily.

Once again it’s a TED Talk, but they just keep getting better.

Sherwin Nuland, the surgeon and author, talks about the development of electroshock therapy as a cure for severe, life-threatening depression. Midway through, his story turns personal. It’s a moving and deeply felt talk about relief, redemption, second chances.

I have always found the idea of electric shock therapy to be abhorrent, but this, from a person who experienced it, has made me think again. See what you think.

Especially to all of those who I haven’t managed to contact this year (most of my friends and greater family) -

Happy Solstice, Christmas, Holidays and New Year