13 Things To Not Tell Someone With Depression | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

13 Things To Not Tell Someone With Depression

Words can hurt.

18
13 Things To Not Tell Someone With Depression
photobucket.com user Tetsu

Some days I wake up too numb to want to do anything. It's not sadness, it's not laziness, it's just this overwhelming feeling of nothingness. On days like this I wish I could disappear because maybe then that feeling of nothingness would go away. Other days I'll be on the brink of tears all day for no reason. And when I get home the tears will fall for hours. This is what my depression looks like. I don't tell many people because usually they say the wrong thing, something that does nothing to help and everything to hurt. Opening up to someone about mental illness is an incredibly personal thing so if someone opens up to you please don't say these things to them.

1. "But you're always so happy."

Are you trying to convince me that I don't have depression?

2. "You just need to get out there."

I have a hard time just getting out of bed. Getting "out there" probably won't happen for a while.

3. "You need to think positively."

That's not really how it works.

4. "Maybe you're just having a bad day."

Well it's been a few years of "bad days" so I'm pretty sure it's more than that but okay.

5. "Happiness is a choice."

I suppose, but that's difficult when your brain isn't cooperating with you.

6. "You should exercise more."

Yes, physical health and mental health are connected but that doesn't mean exercise will solve everything.

7. "Can't you just get over it?"


No. If I could don't you think I would have?

8. "So many people have it worse than you do."

Thank you for invalidating my very valid feelings.

9. "Your problems aren't even that bad."

Is there a ranking scale that I didn't know about?

10. "Is this just your way of getting attention?"

You caught me. I'm miserable all the time and isolating myself for attention.

11. "Try not to think about it."

You know, I do try not to think about it and sometimes that works for, like, five seconds. It's always there in the back of my mind.

12. "Cheer up!"

I want to be happy I really do! It's just not that easy.

13. "It's all in your head."

People don't choose to have depression and it is most definitely not just in their head.

If you know someone struggling with any mental illness, one of the best things you can do for them is simply be there, no words required.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

2902
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

1489
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

1124
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

1016
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments