The Hilarious World of Depression

John Moe, a NPR host of several shows over the years, hosted a podcast by the same name as the title of his book for about four years until it ended in June of this year. He, himself has batted depression throughout his life, compounded by the suicide of his brother for which he blamed himself for many years. He has always been a humorist and several years ago he developed the idea for this podcast in which he holds frank conversations with top comedians who have dealt with clinical depression and more. This story resonated with me on so many levels. I got it after spotting the book in a B&N. The title is terrific. I, too, struggle with depression and bipolar 2 stemming from a traumatic childhood. And I, too, after almost 50 years of meds and talk therapy, can approach it with humor (at times) as well, having been in a good place for almost 10 years. I know a lot of that is due to finally opening up about it to friends and family. Opening up is part of Moe's message. So the book is a bio of Moe and his struggle in which I found so many similarities. His humor makes it a really good read and a primer for those who do not understand the disease. The book led me to his podcasts which will continue to be available in the media, even though the series has folded. I highly recommend them as an adjunct to the book. The book relates some of these interviews but listening to the show sometimes made me feel like it was me they were talking about. I am grateful to Moe for his transparency and obvious wish to help people like us and educate others.