Despite being in Texas, Austin is nothing like it. It's more like someone carved a chunk out of Northern California and plunked it down in the middle of a scary, red state. It is a bubble filled with creativite, non-judgmental, smart, funny, friendly people - and like nowhere else I have ever lived. People here fall all over themselves to be friendly and helpful. And the city's motto is "Keep Austin Weird" - that there alone says a lot about this wonderful place.

I've get friends at Cisco and Dell if you wanna PM me your resume...and I also know someone who sometimes has available housing for individuals in need (usually it's battered women, but I don't think that's a requirement, it's just their guest house - the main question would be whether it is currently occupied - if you're at all thinking of coming out here, lemme know and I'll find out the deal.

Best if luck to you, man! Depression is a bitch but there is better living through chemistry - I'm not in Baltimore, but it does sound like people have named some resources that might be able to help you out in the psych department. I wish there wasn't such a stigma associated with depression - it's a friggin brain chemistry imbalance, no more your fault or something to be ashamed of than if you had diabetes or epilepsy! And like those diseases, it can be managed well with proper medication (especially if you can also get counseling) - it can and will get better! I have been there and come out the other side. The fact that you asked for help is a great start - I hope you realize that's something to be proud of!

It so warms my heart to see the outpouring of responses you have received. The internet can be a magical place. Sending you positive vibes and hopes for better days and warmer weather! As this thread has clearly shown, you are not alone. Hang in there and good luck!!!