About Fiona
This is where I’m supposed to tell you a bit about myself…
Okay, I’ll try not to bore you too much (but I’m not making any promises).
I’m Fiona Tate AKA the Depression Muse. At the time of writing, I’m married, 53 years old and childless by circumstance, not by choice. But, I’m also delightful to be around and reasonably sane (most days).
We all live in a small housebus in NZ. That’s me, my hubby, The Count, and our two furbabies named Angus of the Clan McTate and Felin the Fierce. Don’t let the image fool you, they may look calm and serene but, they’re both mad as hatters.
Holding a BA in Psychology, I have over 25 years work experience with people experiencing mental health issues and alcohol and other drug issues. To sum up, I live and breathe this Depression stuff, in more ways than one.
I’m a Daughter of Lilith and a magickal practitioner, however, I will not turn your ex into a toad, even if he really does deserve it.
Did I mention that I love to write and to read? I also love music, vampires, esssential oils, bats, and all things dark. As a result, I spend most of my time attached to my computer doing “research.”
THE NITTY-GRITTY
I’ve had Depression since I was nine years old but I wasn’t diagnosed with it until my early twenties. Back then it had never occurred to anyone that children could be depressed. I’m so pleased we’ve moved on from this kind of outdated thinking, although I recognize that we’ve still got a long way to go.
It’s been a long time since I was nine years old but at this point in my life, I think of my Depression as an old frenemy, almost like a grumpy old Uncle who pushes my buttons but I don’t have to deal with every day.
Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t with the Depression demon on my worst enemy, let alone myself. But, I’ve carried it with me for so long now that I don’t know who I’d be without it.
Now, I use my Depression as a muse:
My writing comes from my Depression and what its taught me about life, emotions and human beings. It helps me to express who I am and what I believe in. To clarify, my Depression is my truth.
to help others:
You are not alone. Having Depression does not mean you can’t have a fulfilling life. It just means you have to work a little harder at it. But, I’m living proof that it can be done.
to teach others:
As a woman who lives with Depression it’s my responsibility to show others what its really like, but that doesn’t mean I have to show you everything, I”m sure many of you have your own experiences with the demon.
“If anything, my mother taught me how to sur-thrive. That’s my word for it.”
Carrie Fisher
Subscribe to Vampires & The Vapors for all Fiona’s writing news.
