indication

beyond mere brood disordered mood
depression pains obtains the reins
sustains in million numbers tolled
of persons young and old

propensity defined:
toward downward bend inclined,
a neuro-chem append, genetic trend,
eventful trigger’s tend that will not mend in time

severity may range
from affable to strange
inciting notice, fend, or dote
to restore buoyancy to float
droll may well be spirited away
by ambient crème broulee
or certain cabernet, but may — unfortunate to say
— oblige parlay without delay
for hospital stay

attribute? undisclosed
though studies measured show
in chemical tableau
seratonin may be low,
or hormones too, although
impractical to know
which micro-balance is in woe

cortisol, progesterone,
or dopamine won’t hold its own?
endorphins whacked?
hippocampus lax?
something amuss
in hypothalamus?
or — trended in calculus
not rendered innocuous —
adrenal-pituitary axis is vacuous

though much to gain from talk profane
from chem adjust in meds we trust
for treatment robust touch must too be discussed

known massage can reprieve agitation, fatigue,

insomnia, headache, reduced interest in cake
even symptoms like sadness can lose their intransigence

chronic pain may decrease and emotions release

deep relaxation ensue, increased energy too

with all said, done, and mused

really — nothing to lose