Do you ever hear a certain song and feel your stomach clench, because it makes you remember a particularly emotional relationship or moment in your life?

That’s how I feel every time I see Seinfeld.

Let me explain: A few years back, I suffered from a terrible, debilitating depression. As some of you know, the illness can be incredibly isolating; I experienced many days where I found it impossible to get out of bed, let alone shower or eat.

I was sick for a long time before I realized what was happening, and I was still sick for a long time after that while doctors helped me find the right treatment.

At some point during that period, I must’ve caught a Seinfeld rerun. I wish I could remember the episode; maybe it was the one where

Kramer starts smoking

or the one where we hear the outgoing message on

George’s answering machine

Whatever it was, it made me feel something I hadn’t felt in weeks: happy.

Pretty soon, Seinfeld started to be one thing — sometimes the only thing — I could look forward to each day. My husband knew he couldn’t always persuade me to get out of bed if dinner was ready, but if Seinfeld was about to start, he might have more luck.

Now, I know watching a TV show doesn’t sound like much. But when you’re in such a dark place, it’s all about the micro-movements: One step out of bed. Two more steps to the TV. Three steps to the kitchen. Four steps out the front door.

With help and support, I eventually got better and returned to my true self. And while I probably would’ve recovered without Jerry, Elaine, George and Kramer, I have no doubt they helped get me on that road.

So thank you, Seinfeld. Decades after entering my life, you just keep on giving.

Whitney Matheson, USA TODAY