Was Lincoln's Depression a Blessing?

[Gene C]

I agree Bill, a good point.

In my opinion, one of Lincoln's personal characteristics helped him in dealing with his depression, his attitude towards other people.
He was a giving person, he cared about people.
He frequently placed other peoples needs above his own desires, with no apparent benefit to himself.
Helping someone in need can be therapeutic, can make you feel good inside. He had several examples where people had helped him, and he learned from their example. I believe he learned this from his parents, and from his friends in New Salem.