Mood disorders and poetry: Archaeology of the self

Abstract

The focus of this article is on poetry therapy as a readily accessible resource about mood disorders. An examination of poems that reveal each writer's ability to explore moods with a particular focus on the experience of depression is presented. The creating and sharing of these poems has benefits for both writers and readers in terms of witnessing mood, understanding the inner life, and healing. As such, poetry therapy is well suited as an archaeology of the self which is vital in the treatment of depression. It is also argued that there is a distinct need for the inclusion of poetry therapy as part of the repertoire of support for those who suffer from depression.