A close relative, for probably the 50th time, insinuated that I should end my life because they felt like depression has been "bugging me" for too many years.
Now I have tried relentlessly to educate my relatives about depression. I have explained how certain words or phrases should not be used when speaking to a person who struggles with depression. One of those examples would be "just snap out of it", one of the most insensitive things you could say to a depressed individual.
Compared to where I was seven years ago, I have come a very long way and I am proud of my progress. I remember the days when I could not drag myself out of bed to do anything. So though it may seem insignificant to some, I am progressing.
These statements have caused major upset to me, but I can see how I have grown and matured. Though these words hurt my feelings, I did not dwell on it or allow it to consume me.
I am still learning how to deal with these things, but I will never stop fighting to get to where I want to be. The key here is to have trustworthy people you can turn to, who will be able to give you a word of encouragement.
Some people may ask why I chose to make such a private situation public. Well, it's because so many people suffer in silence and many have no one or nowhere to turn and as someone who has been through this I want to share my experiences.
In that moment of belittlement, you feel helpless and absolutely hopeless and having nowhere to turn can be detrimental. So it is my prayer that by sharing this story, others will gain hope in knowing that things ALWAYS get better. It may not seem that way during your struggle, but it will get better.
To those friends, relatives or total strangers who do not understand what its like to be depressed. I beg you to educate yourself on the topic. And when all else fails, if you can't say something nice, just don't say anything at all. Kicking a depressed person when they are already down can lead to that person committing suicide. Love your friend or family member and know that they did not choose this. Know that they are NOT weak or pretending. Be patient with them and know it's not your fault either. Getting angry and lashing out is never the answer.
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Until next time, BE KIND.
