In 2005, the Black Dog Institute held an essay competition, inviting those who had experienced the ‘black dog’ to describe how they lived with and mastered their depression. Most individuals portrayed depressive episodes with classic melancholic features – with a number of these individuals also depicting ‘highs’ indicative of bipolar disorder. One such essay is published here. There are several reasons for its reproduction in this forum. Firstly, it is delightfully written. Secondly, its writ large tone is informative. Its author bursts into print with the energy, exuberance and creativity of a ‘high’, followed shortly by a sombre description of the anergia and enervating blackness of depression. In essence, the essay's structure depicts the roller coaster ride experienced by so many with bipolar disorder. Thirdly, while the author was aware of his depression – his membership of the ‘D Club’ – he was not aware (raised in subsequent discussion) of the possibility of having bipolar disorder. As detailed through this book, many individuals experience Bipolar II Disorder for decades before receiving an accurate diagnosis – while many others never receive such a diagnosis. It is the depression (the big ‘D’) that perturbs their lives and drives them to present for treatment of the lows. But bipolar disorder missed is bipolar disorder mis-managed. Fourthly, this essay is beautifully multi-layered. The author captures the enormity of depression but, in being quintessentially upbeat, he demonstrates true resilience, and is touchingly devoid of self-pity.