Depression is a monster. It can take many forms and you can never know when it will attack. Some people struggle from high-functioning depression, others have occasional episodes and then there are others who struggle with this condition 24/7.
So, it is really important for all of you who have never experienced this horrible state of mind to understand that depression is not just being sad. It is not something people choose to deal with. It is not all in their mind. And it is not made-up. Depression is much more complex than you actually think.
People who struggle with depression have a very hard time functioning. That is why they need our help and our unconditional support to keep moving forward. There will always be days when depression will force them to give up. It is up to you to do everything in your power to not let that happen.
Never say these things to someone fighting with depression:
1. WHY DON’T YOU TRY TO CHEER UP?
Well, isn’t that a nice idea? Because being depressed and miserable is just all fun and games.
Please, for the love of god, stop asking such inconsiderate questions. If a person is suffering from depression, this is the last thing they would want to hear it. It is frustrating, obnoxious and extremely rude.
What makes you think that they haven’t done everything in their power to stop those harmful thoughts and get on with their lives?
2. IT’S ALL IN YOUR MIND
Yes, as a matter of fact, everything is in their minds. But what you cannot seem to understand is that their minds are playing tricks on them. And most of the time, these people cannot control that.
The thing is, depression is much more complicated. It is being attacked by your own brain.
3. CAN’T MEDS CURE YOU?
Depression can be treated with therapy and medication, but that doesn’t mean that these are the only two things that can cure depression. Some people have breakthrough depression where even with treatment, they still have harmful episodes.
Some, on the other hand have a treatment-resistant condition which means that nothing really works for them. So, to answer your question. No, depression cannot be cured by meds only. Depression is a condition that can last forever.
4. I CANNOT IMAGINE WHAT’S IT LIKE TO BE INSIDE YOUR SHOES
You could never even imagine. No matter how hard you tried. That is why you should never ever say this to a person suffering from depression. This statement is unhelpful and frustrating. The only thing worse than this is actually pretending that you know what depression is, by comparing it to your occasional sadness and moodiness.
Also, most of the people who say these kinds of stuff usually mean that it’s not that they cannot imagine what it’s like to be living with depression, but that they don’t believe in your illness.
5. DO YOU REALLY NEED THAT MUCH THERAPY?
Stop asking such stupid questions. Of course, people who suffer from depression need therapy. It is not their job to explain to you why they need it and how long they need it. It’s not their job to make you feel better. They already have a lot on their mind.
So, instead of attacking them with your intrusive questions, try something else. Support them. Listen to what they have to say. Be there for them. Hold their hand. Be their shoulder to cry on. Comfort them. Hug them. Love them. But, do not listen just to reply. Listen so you can understand them better.
