Depression is ...

Depression is not a stranger to most of us; however it is something that we have heard many opinions on, but perhaps not all truth. I found a book that has been very helpful in explaining and understanding what clinical depression is -

 "Undoing Depression - "What Therapy doesnt teach You and Medication Can't Give You" by Richard O'Connor PhD.
Let me share some of the points that have stood out to me - and what I hope to share with my friends and family as they walk along side me in this journey.

Depression is NOT:

• understood by many
• a sign of weakness
• a feeling
• something that one can simply "get over"
• an illness that only affects the weak, hurting and broken
• sadness or grief
• magically healed by "pulling yourself together"
• always inherited genetically
• cause to give up living or pursueing your dreams

Depression IS:

• is a complex condition
• life changing
• an illness - and Depression untreated can lead to perm brain damage -  can be life threatening
• sometimes paralyzing
• closely linked with anxiety; being told not to worry or to relax is insensitive advice for people who are living with Depression
• sometimes triggered by trauma, loss, rejection, life changes

People With Depression:

• are aware of the stigma that comes with it and constantly hide or fight for that to be changed
• work harder to live than anyone else does - to not want to be done the hard work of living
• see life differently; and when in a Depression flair up - feel like depression controls them
• have coping mechanisms that have helped them survive;  but in reality often help them hide
• fear being emotionally out of control
• fear making poor decisions and choices
• often give up
• like to have people lead and make decisions for them
• do not like to be alone long as they arent always hopeful they will make good choices.
• often overadapt trying to mask how they are really feeling
• are capable of holding professional jobs, being parents and succeeding in what they strive to do
• need continued affirmation, love, encouragement and time with friends /family
• are not striving to be happy; but rather to live with vitality - and a freedom to experience and feel every possible emotion
• need to work hard to remember they are capable and to let people into their walls of protection

On a personal note: I believe that people with Depression are able to live and thrive not simply survive; but a community of support is important and vital!

There is a lot more I could share, but that seems good for now.