Depression is Not a Joke

Depression isn't necessarily a "civil rights" issue, but it's definitely a social issue that needs to be talked about and specified.

Depression hits home for me, and talking about this will be difficult knowing that my classmates will eventually read this, and they may look at me differently, for something they never knew about. I suffer from depression and anxiety, it's nothing to be proud about, but it's my reality. My anxiety and depression has definitely become more bearable in the last year or so, but it still makes an unexpected appearance every once in a while.

Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain that effects the way a person sleeps, thinks and feels about him or herself. Depression isn't the same as feeling sad for a day, individuals suffering from depression can't necessarily "pull themselves together." It can last for years, or even for as little as a day.

My depression and anxiety stems from stress. With my anxiety, I over-analyze and over-think things. I worry too much and don't always know how to calm myself down, but like I said earlier, I've been learning how to control these feelings and how to have more control over my disorder than I ever had before.

Anyone can be suffering from depression, and you could be totally unaware. People are harsh, so it's not easy to talk about. I know when I was first "diagnosed", I thought I was crazy. I didn't fully understand what depression was, and I don't tell many people (until now, obviously) because I'm worried that they'll think I'm crazy. It's easy to be insecure in today's world, so you need, and I cannot stress this enough, you need to be inclusive and understanding of everyone.

I went off on a tangent, but the main point of this post was to talk about the social practices with depression. I see way too many tweets about depression being used as an "aesthetic". It's not. Depression is a REAL disorder that REAL people suffer from.

Depression shouldn't be used to "gain more followers" or to receive attention. This is definitely my biggest pet peeve, to use a disorder or disease as a platform for popularity. Be considerate of others, and what they're going through, because you never really know everyone's full "story."

I think therapists also have a stigma attached with them, and frankly I don't know why. It's easier to talk to someone that doesn't necessarily know you, someone that you don't see everyday. Therapists aren't for everyone, so don't take my word, but if you think it may help you, definitely check them out.

My main message was to be considerate, understand what depression actually is, and be supportive. Support and understanding is the main thing that someone who is suffering from this disorder needs. Trust me, I've been there, and I still am sometimes.

If you are someone who is suffering from depression, and you need someone to talk to, feel free to get a hold of me! I'm here for anyone that needs to vent. Let someone know as well, a parent or other adult that you can trust, they may be able to help you.

stay peaceful (and informed)!!