Depression Proof Life

Hi, I’m Melissa. I’m 50 (ack!), and for most of my life I’ve been navigating the complicated world of chronic pain. My body’s been through a lot—migraines, arthritis, fibromyalgia, GI struggles, neck and back problems, and more injuries than I can count. There’s also the emotional side: the stress of endless doctor visits and testing, the roller coaster of medications and side effects, the exhausting challenge of trying to build a meaningful life while managing all of it. Depression and anxiety have been familiar companions. So have insomnia and nightmares. Some days, just getting through feels like a full-time job.

But here’s the thing—I don’t want to define my life by the hard parts anymore. I want to find the joy that still manages to break through the cracks, even on the worst days. I want to Depression Proof my life—not by pretending everything’s fine, but by learning how to find peace, purpose, and moments of happiness in the middle of the mess.

This blog is my journal, my experiment, and my invitation to you. Come along with me as I figure this out—stumbling, laughing, learning, and searching for joy along the way.