Experiencing depression: women's perspectives in recovery

Depression, as perceived by 10 women, is presented in this descriptive study. Guided by symbolic interactionism and feminist theory this qualitative study used semistructured interviews, self-report measures, observations and participant self-reflective journals to elicit women's views on depression and its affect on, and meaning in, their lives. The theme of loss of self was the central feature in their experiences that characterized depression and, in turn, affected their efforts in recovery and healing. Six other themes reflected their experiences in living with depression including: the transformed self, wanting and monitoring, the self as healer, revealing vs, concealing, acceptance and belonging, and making sense of depression--meaning and understanding.