[steve86]

Wish I could help you finish that Lancair. I sold my plane and took up R/C Helicopters, in part because of similar life problems. The models will sometimes sit for months because I don't have the energy to work on them, but I eventually find it and the experience is satisfying. My "status" now comes from these moments, prayer, and my grandchildren who adore me, not from professional prestige.

Outpatient treatment for depression would not necessarily be disqualifying for security clearances. You'd be surprised how many of your former co-workers openly take SSRIs or other antidepressants and maintain their clearances. The same goes for politicians.

Although many of your problems are situational, you are too eager to deny a biochemical component. If you absolutely refuse to seek medical treatment, you should at least try 5-HTP, over-the-counter and one of the Trytophan chemicals. Works very similarly to the SSRIs in me. Have your wife keep a private diary of any changes in your mood/behavior, because it can be difficult to judge on your own. Take the doses exactly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

[At _War_With_Liberals]

"you should at least try 5-HTP, over-the-counter and one of the Trytophan chemicals. Works very similarly to the SSRIs in me."

Be careful. 5HTP can cause mania.

[snopercod]

Thanks for your comments. My wife (who is now supporting us), bought me MS Flight Simulator, which is really cool. But I miss the "G" forces and the smell of fear in the cockpit ;-)