My depression felt creatively expansive. Now I’ve overcome it, how do I keep the meaningful parts? | Leading questions

Darkness can present itself as truth, advice columnist Eleanor Gordon-Smith writes. But love, joy and awe are far richer experiences

I’ve overcome a depression that was both debilitating and strangely vivid and creatively expansive. How do I step back into ordinary life without losing the parts that felt meaningful and alive?

During that time, I immersed myself in creative work, I was writing poetry, painting my feelings, and reading books that echoed my inner world, and I found a depth that felt honest, vivid and alive. I gravitated towards art and film that explored life’s darker edges and through them I gained a perspective that felt richer and more truthful than everyday chatter. Those pursuits became my comfort and my way of making sense of things.

In Australia, support is available at Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, and at MensLine on 1300 789 978. In the UK, the charity Mind is available on 0300 123 3393 and Childline on 0800 1111. In the US, call or text Mental Health America at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org