Forums » Smalltalk » DEPRESSION IS REAL

"DEPRESSION IS as REAL as people's ignorance towards it."

Some people still think depression is a joke, an excuse and nonexistent. But being unable to see it, doesn't mean it's not there.Telling a depressed person that your problems were a lot worse than theirs doesn't mean that person doesn't feel bad about their own problem.

Everyone has their own way of reacting to certain situations and coping with their emotions. They are not like you. They don't think like you. Don't compare them to you, so don't expect them to handle things your way. Stop judging those who are still trying to hold on and are trying their hardest to be happy. Stop laughing at them and thinking that they're just using depression as an excuse. Your apathetic comments, misinterpretations and judgements don't help at all. They make things worse.

Instead, accept them for who they are. If you feel like they need help, support them. Encourage them. Remind them of how special they are to you. Remind them of the good qualities they have. Remind them that they are not alone and no matter how down they are, you are there to listen. Not ignore or leave them at their darkest times. Show them that you are a true friend. LOVE them. It's not that hard. So, don't be afraid to show a simple act of kindness to someone. It can bring a big impact, and maybe, even a big change to a person's life.

Iv not been diagnosed for depression as my next doctors appointment it far away, so if you want you could take everything I say "He's not really depressed" because, for as much as I know, I might not be

With some people it's not about making them feel special or important, I know I have people that I am important too

I just fail to see the point in doing anything really



But that's just me, all Im saying is its not always about making someone feel special, or important

I feel ya there. I guess you could say that I have depression, as well as anxiety. It's not easy to "just get over it". Sometimes, I get upset and cry for no reason whatsoever. I've been going to counseling and taking medicine to help with it, though. *sigh* It sucks, but support is always needed.

People need purpose. No one can lead you to it, it must be consciously sought, but we can help others by pointing them in the right direction. And that, in itself, can be a good start to finding purpose.I believe that the knowledge that what you are doing matters can be a great salve for maladies that sicken the soul. So learn to stand up straight. Chest out, shoulders back, and start on a worthwhile adventure.

This is not written as prescription from a certified mental health professional. Nor with intent to dismiss depression as something that can just be "switched off". It is complex and unique to every individual. But for those who might feel similar, this is from someone whose known guilt and caused pain through dealing with depression with inaction. And has started his own journey of meaning. A little late, but better than never.