Everybody Has Experienced Depression; You're Fine

Depression: According to the NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health), this is how they define depression. The link to their website is also available if you click on the underlined word depression. Everyone occasionally feels blue or sad. But these feelings are usually short-lived and pass within a couple of days. When you have depression, it interferes with daily life and causes pain for both you and those who care about you. Depression is a common but serious illness. Many people with a depressive illness never seek treatment. But the majority, even those with the most severe depression, can get better with treatment. Medications, psychotherapies, and other methods can effectively treat people with depression. There are several forms of depressive disorders, such as, major depression, persistent depressive disorder, psychotic depression, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, and bipolar disorder.

No no no no no. The amount of times I've heard this phrase, "everybody has experienced depression; you're fine", is just ridiculous. For anyone who struggles with a mental illness, I'm sure you've all had an instance where someone has said something along the lines of what I just said; and after you hear the words, your whole body cringes at those 6 words. I've seen so many videos on Facebook lately that highlight mental illness such as depression and anxiety and every time, I'm sympathize with the person/s speaking. I hate (and I don't like to use the word hate for anything) but I truly hate the stigma behind what people think it's like to struggle with depression and anxiety, therefore, I've come up with a few ways to address and educate those who have people in their life who struggle with depression and anxiety and don't know what to do for them or say to them. 

1. There's usually no explanation as to why we feel mentally and emotionally miserable 
2. It's uncontrollable
3. One day I might seen super happy (and I may feel that way as well) and the next day I may feel miserable again 
4. Don't tell me that I'm fine (because "surprise shocker" I'm not fine)
5. I'll be okay... Eventually. Probably not today, or tomorrow, or in 3 days, but I will be okay
6. Please don't force me into activities if I really don't feel up for them
7. Tell me that you love me
8. Remind me that you're there if I need someone to talk too (support me)
9. Don't compare me to everyone else who suffers from depression
10.  Don't tell me that everyone has depression*
• *Not everyone experiences depression. There's this thing called sadness. And yes, everyone at points in their life experience sadness but no not everyone has depression. Also, depression is measured on a scale and although you may have a very low form of depression, mine is extreme and that my friend is a huge difference from very low.

I want to shed light on this topic because it's extremely important to me and I know people in my life that struggle with it too. I feel as though it's not often talked about and that people are afraid to be open about their symptoms of depression. Coming from someone who's suffered from depression and anxiety for roughly 3 years now, it's okay. It's okay to be depressed. Don't let society's stigmas keep you from seeking treatment and don't live your life miserable. It's not fair to yourself. Depression effects your mind, body, and soul. And I don't know about you, but I sure as heck don't want to live the way I have for the rest of my life. For any friends and family out their that are struggling and feeling alone, know that you are not alone. I know it's scary to open up to someone about what's going on in your mind but don't ever hesitate to reach out to me or anyone else you feel comfortable around. You don't have to do this alone and you're not alone.

My email is vhargis@umail.iu.edu for anyone who feels as though they need someone to talk too. My inbox is always open. And never forget, there is ALWAYS HOPE.

I chose too write this phrase on my hand as a proclamation that I will get through the hard times. Please feel free to do the same and share the pictures with me.