Author Koh Lin ◦
“If you meet the Black Dog once, it shall be for joy; if twice, it shall be for sorrow;
and the third time shall bring death.”
The metaphorical use of the term “black dog” or “black dog depression” was and still is used to describe a period in a person’s life, who suffers from and encompass a spectrum of depression and the associated symptoms. It is an effective metaphor for those suffering, as depression can feel like an ominous and long-suffering presence that tracks your every move… like an ominous black dog.
“Black Dog of Depression” represents how depression does not take breaks,
and may feel like a shadow that follow you.
So let us look at some images of happy black dogs…
It may look black from a distance… but as you get closer, the black dissipates…
| SEEKING HELP If you do suffer from depression, it is important to seek professional help. Your local general practictioner or private health service can help you when seeking help. There are also support groups and online communities for those who have difficulty attending in-person meetings due to geographical constraints or social anxiety. These groups may provide a platform and space for individuals to share experiences and mutual support, as well as learning from others facing similar challenges. |
Footnote & References
- Why Is Depression Sometimes Called “The Black Dog”?
Everyone from lexicographer Samuel Johnson to Prime Minister Winston Churchill has used the phrase—but how did it become a metaphor for depression? by Michael Thomas Kincella, Jun 17, 2024, Mental Floss, https://www.mentalfloss.com/language/black-dog-depression-metaphor
