I'm a long-term lurker and serious admirer: you've taught me a lot about how to handle medical emergencies sensibly and calmly, even as a non-expert, and once or twice I've successfully put that new-found knowledge into practice. This admittedly unsolicited advice is a small-thank you in return. You know, don't give up on the girlfriend thing. I've been with my SAD-prone fella for over 11 years. His SADness is drug-resistant, lightbox-resistant, you name it, we've tried it... I don't love the depression (I know that time-for-chewing-gum face all too well!) but I do love him. I can distinguish between the two and I've learnt strategies for coping during the winter. I also know that beating up on yourself -- the I'm-a-hopeless-boyfriend routine -- is all part and parcel. I'm sure there are other loving women out there that will do the same for you. You're intelligent, witty, compassionate, independent-minded and handsome: what's not to like? If you had a different sort of long-term debility -- epilepsy, or asthma, or diabetes, say -- then you'd educate your partner on how best to look after you when you can't look after yourself. So the next time a lovely lady comes along and looks like she might be a serious prospect, brief her about your SADness: warn her what to expect, reassure her that it's nothing personal, that she can talk to her doc about it, read books, get support from friends -- and tell her that you do still love her, even when you can't express it. I'm not saying its always easy -- what meaningful long-term relationship is? -- but it's always worth it when the sun comes out again for both of you. OK, no more preaching -- but if I can do anything to help, just ask.