7 Things I Wish I Could Tell People About Depression
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

7 Things I Wish I Could Tell People About Depression

It's more common than you think.

54
7 Things I Wish I Could Tell People About Depression
David Preston // Unsplash

A long time ago, the only way to cure a mentally ill person was to scramble their brains until they lost all personality. This wasn't actually a cure for them, but it made the lives of the people running asylums much easier. Today, we are much more knowledgeable about behavioral health, but there are still a lot of stigmas and misconceptions. I have only experienced depression, so I will only describe something that I know. So here are 7 things I wish I could tell everyone about depression.


1. I can't just "get over it"

If only it was that easy, Deborah.


2. Yoga is not a cure-all.

This one comes in many forms. Whether it's yoga, eating healthy, journaling, coloring, religion, etc. Yes, these work for a lot of people, but it isn't a cure-all.

3. My medicine does NOT turn me into a zombie.

Actually, my medicine does what it's supposed to do, help me. Psychiatric drugs have this stigma because everyone is different and it often takes a few tries to find the combination of medicines that are the best for you. My pills don't take away my creativity or anything like that. They just help me out of my lows.


4. I am more than my depression.

I'm an intersectional feminist. My favorite color is purple and I hate bananas. I've loved books since I was little and I'm a proud older sister to three wonderful brothers and sister. Yes, my depression is something I have to manage, but it does not define me.


5. Suicide and Self-harm are nothing to joke about.

The most terrifying thing I've ever experienced is craving death. Self-harm was something I struggled with for years, and I'm reminded of it every summer when I try to wear shorts. There are something you just don't joke about. This is one of them.


6. I'm not fragile.

Sometimes, yes, I need to care for myself, but I am just as strong as anyone else. You aren't going to say anything that will send me into a down spiral. I'm just a normal person.


7. It's more common than you think.


According to Mental Health America, 1 in 5 adults has a mental health condition. That's over 40 million Americans. Mental Health is stigmatized, so we are all scared to talk about it, but the truth is it's more common than most think and talking about it can only help the people struggling with it.



So If you have may think you have a mental health condition, please seek help. If you are contemplating self-harm or suicide. Please call the National Suicide Hotline immediately at 1-800-273-8255.

Remember, don't ever be ashamed of yourself. You are perfect just as you are. If that means dealing with a mental illness, then you are all the more stronger for rising to the challenge.


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

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

70781
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

132400
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments