ABSTRACT

Jouissance is a state of pleasure/pain/excitement that, when taken to an extreme, leads to a loss of a sense of existence, which is why it inspires anxiety. At the kernel of every symptom is not only suffering and symbolic significance but also pleasure. Yes, symptoms involve jouissance. It’s hard to admit, but without admitting it, one cannot liberate themselves from the agony of the symptom.

One could view depression as a state of refusing to give something up. Ultimately, in order to recover from depression, one must give up that something.

And: a discussion of pharmacological treatment, which became so popular recently.