Here’s a reality check about depression, by Nikita. An exclusive for Different Truths.

“Although depression is not contagious, it feels like it is.” ~ Gail Saltz, MD, psychiatrist.

Depression is contemporary to all of us. We are learning to talk about it without feeling embarrassed. We now understand that it is not a person’s fault if they are diagnosed with depression. We are still researching the causes and cure for this millennial disease.

Due to the old prejudice and social stigma surrounding mental illnesses, many people refrain from consulting a psychiatrist.

Depression is not anyone’s fault

We are quick to pinpoint at things, circumstances or behavioural patterns that might hint at a person’s inclination towards hopelessness and despair. However, Depression is not anyone’s fault or a choice. It is a curable disease just like hypertension, diabetes or arthritis.

Depression is not “just in your head”

Studies have shown that feelings of sadness, despair and hopelessness can manifest into physical pain. It can manifest in unexpected ways. A person could feel excessively lethargic, insomniac, hopeless, or agitated. It gives rise to self-hatred, guilt, or feelings of worthlessness.

Depression is not uncommon

Depression can make people isolate themselves from the world. They might not want to talk to their family and friends. They would say things like, “I do not want to bother you with my petty life issues” or” I feel comfortable not talking about it to anyone”. If you think someone might be depressed, talk to them even if gets uncomfortable. Tell them they are important to you and remind them that they are not alone.

What can you do?

The goal is not to find a solution and fix their issues. What you should rather do is listening and let them process the pain so that they can find their own solutions. Hear them out.

What not to do?

It takes a lot of courage for a depressed person to open up and share their feelings. When someone is venting out his or her pain and suffering, the worst thing to say is, “I can feel what you feel” or “I know someone who feels exactly the way you feel”.

People can be difficult when they are depressed. They might even try to push away the people who truly love them. They might even yell at you for trying to help them out.

Talking to a person who has been feeling a myriad of negative emotions can often be a challenging task. Family and friends are the first soldiers in the fight against depression.  You do not have to fix them; you just need to hear them out. Being kind and compassionate towards them will be an enormous help. Encourage them to share their feelings and listen without judgment.

What not to say?

It’s all in your head
Everyone gets depressed sometimes. Everyone feels suicidal
You have no reason to be depressed
Do not be so negative
It will go away on its own.

I know someone who feels exactly like you do, even worse and he recovered.
Get over it!
As heartbreaking as it may sound, depression can also scare off your family and friends

Photo from the Internet

Nikita Goel

Nikita Goel is a published author with 25 books! Her blog, “The Enchantress” has made it to Top Blogs of India consistently for a decade now. She writes for various online portals and magazines published worldwide. She won the “Best Editor of the Year” by Aagaman Literary Society. She has worked as a teacher, counselor, editor, columnist, writer and Social Media Manager for various organisations in India & U.S.A.