Just last week, the topic of depression was placed front and center with the heartbreaking news that two popular public figures tragically chose to take their own lives. Depression doesn’t care how popular you are or how much money you make. It can hide behind the mask of a smile or a self-deprecating joke. It lies to you and tells you that life won’t get better and that your loved ones would be better off without you. Depression isolates its victims whispering that no one understands and it paralyzes them in fear so they can’t leave the solitude of their homes.
If you battle depression, you’re not alone. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression which makes it “a leading cause of disability”. It’s time we remove the stigma from this mental sickness and discuss it out in the open. This is a medical issue as much as arthritis or migraines and as such, there is no disgrace or shame for seeking help. On a personal note, as Editor-in-Chief of Periscope New Group, I feel it’s only fair to confess that I have battled depression for more than 20 years. I know what it’s like when the pain is so fierce that death feels like the only way to stop the torment. I’ve spent months when I rarely left the house and I’ve wept until I felt I couldn’t possibly shed another tear. I’ve looked up from the bottom of the pit believing there was absolutely no light of hope to be found anywhere.If everything that I’m saying sounds familiar, then I first want to say that I’m so sorry that you are going through this. Secondly, you’re not alone and there is help out there. Call your doctor and share how you’re feeling. He or she may be able to recommend a counselor and/or medications to help you find your footing. For people who are occasionally sad or overwhelmed, medication should be a last resort, but for a true diagnosis of depression, this might be a helpful option. On a personal note, I’ve learned over the years how to manage my inner struggle. In my individual situation, I take medication to help even out my emotions so I can stay healthy. I’ve also learned what can bring me down or trigger my depression, so I adjust my lifestyle accordingly. I minimize contact with certain unhealthy individuals, I volunteer to help those who are in more difficult situations than I am, I make time to do what I enjoy, and I surround myself with people who love me and support me. Finally, please know that while life may be hard now, it’s just for a season. If you feel like you need to talk to someone, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. I remember wanting to end my life 20 years ago and I am so grateful that I didn’t take that fatal step. I would have missed out on marrying my best friend, being a mom to two amazing little girls, and creating special memories that make life so wonderful. Don’t give up. You don’t know what awesome things the next chapter of your life may have written in it. There are people who care about you and want to help you.
