Drawing from a lifetime of treatment for clinical depression, author Daphne Merkin has contributed a number of essays for The New Yorker and The New York Times Magazine trying to sort out the root causes of her affliction. In This Close to Happy, she recounts the experiences of growing up in a large, affluent family where, despite the presence of a chauffeur and a cook, there was a lack of warmth, love, and daily care. Offering detailed accounts of her treatment, including several hospitalizations, she discusses her early love of reading and gradual emergence as a writer. In discussion with YES! Magazine senior editor Christa Hillstrom, Merkin will share an intimate view of the impacts of this disease and the ways in which healing and redemption can be found.

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Recorded live at Town Hall Seattle Wednesday, February 22, 2017