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Angst Quote by Leonard Cohen

“Well, you know, there's depression and depression. What I mean by depression in my own case is that depression isn't just the blues. It's not just like I have a hangover in the weekend ... the girl didn't show up or something like that. It isn't that. It's not really depression, it's a kind of…” quote by Leonard Cohen
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“Well, you know, there's depression and depression. What I mean by depression in my own case is that depression isn't just the blues. It's not just like I have a hangover in the weekend ... the girl didn't show up or something like that. It isn't that. It's not really depression, it's a kind of mental violence which stops you from functioning properly from one moment to the next. You lose something somewhere and suddenly you're gripped by a kind of angst of the heart and of the spirit...”

Leonard Cohen

About This Quote

Source Interview: Rolling Stone, 1993

Depression is described as a violent mental force that disrupts functioning, more severe than sadness, causing sudden angst.

In simple terms: Depression is a harsh mental attack, not just sadness.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address deep mental distress early.

Themes

mental health anguish psychological violence vulnerability

Mood

somber intense

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • support groups
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

trauma emotional turbulence identity crisis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What distinguishes this mental violence from everyday sadness?
  • How can one protect against sudden emotional spikes?
A Different Perspective

Not all emotional pain fits this description; may pathologize normal stress.

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