Skip to content

Therapists have long known that many depressions go away…

“Therapists have long known that many depressions go away only after a person finally gives up some long-sought goal and turns his or her energies in another direction.” quote by Randolph M. Nesse
Download Open image
““Therapists have long known that many depressions go away only after a person finally gives up some long-sought goal and turns his or her energies in another direction.””

Randolph M. Nesse

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Depression often eases when a person abandons an unattainable goal and redirects effort elsewhere.

In simple terms: Letting go of impossible goals can lift depression.

Key Takeaway

Shift focus to new, realistic pursuits.

Themes

mental health acceptance goal adjustment

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

advice psychological

When to use this quote

  • career change
  • relationship issues
  • creative projects
  • health recovery

Key Concepts

psychology cognitive restructuring motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What goal are you clinging to?
  • How can you redirect your energy constructively?
A Different Perspective

If the new direction is unclear, anxiety may persist.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Randolph M. Nesse

Explore all 24 Randolph M. Nesse quotes

More Depression quotes

Browse all 4,965 Depression quotes