Singing The Blues

I was listening to a discussion on Radio 5 Live on Friday about depression. There was also an article in the Independent about it. It was triggered by a comment by a leading psychiatrist who had said that too many people are being diagnosed with clinical depression. The counter argument is that early diagnosis can prevent a worsening of the symptoms, which is some cases can lead to self harm and suicide.

It is a subject quite close to my heart as it has touched my life in a number of ways. It is also a condition that is more likely to lead to suicide in men, not least as they are less likely to ask for help than women.

Not surprising then that it has features in the world of football, with all its stresses and strains. What is helpful is that some are prepared to speak out about their experiences, like Graham Souness and Mark Bosnich.

The good news is that football can also offer help. Schemes such as this and this , that aim to use the importance of football to men have got to be a good thing.

Of course we all get times when we feel blue. According to this research the end of the football season or when our team is not doing well can be triggers.

Of course, being blue is not always a bad thing.