Alt.support.depression is a newsgroup for people who suffer from all forms of depression as well as others who may want to learn more about these disorders. Much the information shared in this newsgroup comes from posters' experience as well as contributions by professionals in many fields. The thoughts expressed here are for the benefit of the readers of this group. Please be considerate in the way you use the information from this group, keeping in mind the stigma of depression still experienced in society today.

The following Frequently-Asked-Questions (FAQ) attempts to impart an understanding of depression including its causes; its symptoms; its medication and treatments--including professional treatments as well as things you can do to help yourself. In addition, information on where to get help, books to read, a list of famous people who suffer from depression, internet resources, instructions for posting anonymously, and a list of the many contributors is included.

Updated and corrected versions will be posted periodically. Please send suggestions to address omitted.

This FAQ, and many other FAQ's, are available via anonymous ftp from . To get the latest edition of this FAQ:

ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/alt-support-depression/faq/part1

The directory and file name is located in the "Archive-name:" line in the header. A mail server also exists for accessing the FAQ archives. Send a message to , with the command "help" in the body of your message.