Imagine the feeling of emptiness in life and the feeling that nothing matters anymore. Countless people feel this way every day. A 21-year-old male felt this way and wondered if there had ever been a “victory over depression” (“Stories of Depression” 1). At the beginning of his story, he talks about spending four years trying to find joy. He had the feeling that happiness was hiding from him, and as long as he continued to look for it, it would continue to hide. As quoted, “Like a tiger trying to grab its tail, I felt that my search would not end well” (“Stories of Depression” 1). Pleasure was what he was pursuing. His lifestyle completely changed and he only had one rule. As quoted: “If it gave me pleasure, go for it; if it wasn't pleasant, forget it” (“Stories of Depression”). Eventually, he came to a point where he led an empty and meaningless life. He finally came to the conclusion that joy could not be obtained. He eventually felt drained because the realization of lasting happiness that was not possible led him to despair. The desire for his life faded while the monster, misery, grew bigger. As stated, “Depression begins seemingly harmless; a feeling of discontent – ​​a feeling that something was missing” (“Stories of Depression”). Eventually the depression grew stronger and took on some dangerous qualities. He wasn't aware of where he was going, but the more depression gripped him, the more dangerous he became. Death was the only way he felt he could get out because it was in way over his head. As quoted: “It is like the Venus flytrap plant that draws the insect into its lethal caress. The poor insect leaves voluntarily, unaware that the plant is more than it seems” (“Stories of Depression”). Compare Venus…center of card…, n.d. Web. Dec. 7, 2010. “Antidepressants: What You Need to Know About Medications for Depression.” HelpGuide.org. Np, nd Web. 7 Dec 2010."Depression." NIMH. Np, nd Web. 6 Dec 2010."Stories of depression: is victory possible?" Life challenges. Np, nd Web. 7 Dec 2010. "Treating Depression: Therapy. Medications and Lifestyle Changes That Can Help." HelpGuide.org. Np, nd Web. 7 Dec 2010. “Depression: Treatment with Electroconvulsive Therapy.” FamilyDoctor.org. American Academy of Family Physicians, May 2010. Web. 7 Dec 2010. "Psychotherapy for Depression." The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 1995. Web. December 7, 2010. "St. John's Wort and Depression." National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Np, nd Web. December 7, 2010. "Understanding Depression: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Help." HelpGuide.org. Np, nd Web. 7 December 2010.