Does anyone have any idea how many members there are in this community, or how to find out? My guess is close to a thousand if not more. Out of that many members I am sure I can find enough supportive people to help me through an emotional crisis. I did the other night. It also isn't the amount of replies one see on the board, but the friends one makes after posting, the messaging in private, the aftercare hugs,all a very good experience for my first time asking for help. Everyone was most gentle too. I've been a member for almost six months? and stayed away from the boards because they frightened me.
Eventually being alone with my thoughts was even more frightening, I reached out and people reached back. For that I am so grateful. I regret that this is not the experience of those who are leaving. There are many other depression sites on the internet. Social interactions difficult both in person but especially on the net because words can be misconstrued. We are also a community of sick people, some are sicker than others. New people join every day and people move on, that's normal. As the board grows everyday, the posts become more frequent and get lost on the back pages. It is up to me to reach out and make sure I am heard in a polite way. I hope my experience here continues to enrich my life. I also stopped smoking here. Do you realize what a BIG thign that is for me. Thanks DS and those of you who continue to reach out with loving compassion. Alexandria