It started last June and he's just pulling out of it now. This was far worse even than the one in 1985. I would say the obvious trigger was the death of his two dogs last May, but it had been coming on. I think there is no untouched person. There is a great deal of positive effect on the family.
Depression brings the family much closer together.
At least, it made all of us examine our lives together and separately much more honestly and to become much closer in caring for each other, and in our concern for Bill. All the kids rallied around, and I think that was one of the most positive things for Bill in making him want to live instead of die. I advise people to be observant every minute, to see what the changes in behavior, habit, ideas and perceptions are. If you've lived with somebody a long time, you very quickly notice. You have to stop, look and listen.