People may believe depression to be an inherent quality over which they have little influence. Through a social constructionist lens and ideas offered in a narrative approach to clinical work, clinicians can assist clients to experience depression in less oppressive ways. Cultural discourses that encourage lifestyles of depression can be examined and challenged, and new discourses can be created that privilege a client's strength, voice, and experience. Clients can begin to see depression as an external entity that is subject to personal influence and to highlight those times when depression is "put in its place." In this article, the author offers narrative ideas that advanced practice nurses may use when working with clients experiencing depression.
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