D&I in Depression

The news on Coco Lee ending her own life last week reminded me of a piece I shared in 2020 on my cos someone I know personally ended his precious life back then and sadly 2 years later another person I know dearly also took the same path. Just earlier this year, a young life was lost in my son's previous school.

Contemplated for a while on this sharing. While I took the to step out and openly shared in 2019, connections from my current work place are not aware of this. Will I be stigmatized because of my history of depression and my open sharing on my faith?

Regardless, I hope this sharing will encourage someone out there who's struggling and for those who might know someone struggling, I hope this provides for some tips on how you can be of help.

Edited version of the FB sharing:

"The power of DEPRESSION, which knows no borders, does not discriminate regardless of gender, race, religion or skin colour, neither the young nor the old can have immunity over it, can be asymptomatic and even medical tests may not uncover it, and there is no vaccine or cure for it.?The best one could do (as often advised by people around) is to 'snap out of it'.

I am thankful once again that in my over a decade struggle with depression, I have my sis & brother-in-law right from the very beginning (as early as when I didn't even knew I had depression) around me to support me and showed me care and concern even when they do not know what was wrong with me (because in the initial stage, I myself have no idea what was wrong with me).?Bearing with all my nonsense, mood swings & runaways.?Never once did they condemn me, make cynical remarks or asked me to snap out of it.

I am thankful that I found GOD in this whole process.?It was a long 12 years journey that sometimes felt so lonely walking it but many times GOD showed me that He is with me every step.?I am thankful that because He was with me that I am still here and sharing this today.?Many others are not as lucky.?Many chose the road of no return because it was too much to bear on their own.?

Sometimes just having someone around (no exchange of words are even necessary) is all that is needed.

BE KIND, BE THERE, DO NOT JUDGE

The truth will be buried with the dead but regrets and guilt live in the living forever. BE KIND, BE THERE, DO NOT JUDGE so that we do not have to live with guilt for the rest of our lives because of what we've said or commented; what we did or did not do."

Sharing from my personal experience:

• These words 'snap out of it' seems harmless but for someone who's struggling, they are some sharp words. We DO want to 'snap out of it' too but we simply can't. So refrain from making such comments. It confuses further especially if the person is not aware or have not yet acknowledged it.
• Don't get me wrong. I'm not advocating for self treatment here. I believe professional treatment is necessary and important.?I'm just very blessed. But before someone can seek professional help, self acknowledgement must 1st happen.
• Some said cos we are weak. Maybe yes but it does take a lot of courage and strength to go through life as it is, putting on a smile on our face when we so don't feel like doing so and continue to face the world in the state that we are in. The uncontrollable roller coaster ride of emotions we go through every day, crying uncontrollably anytime, anywhere or trying to be normal can sometimes be so confusing and frustrating all at the same time. At times, I did entertained thoughts of ending it all but I am thankful that there was always this little voice in me to talk me out of it.
• To those who are struggling, know that it is absolutely okay to be falling in and out between "I am ok or well" and "I am sick". What is important is to know the triggers and overtime, learn and find ways to manage it. I believe this is not something that can be 'cured' but it needs time and courage to manage.

In all those years, GOD has helped me to rediscover myself, to be less harsh on myself, less of the perfectionist and helped me accept that I am but human and do have my weaknesses and limitations. He has also opened my eyes to see the positive side of myself which I have dismissed for a large part of my adult life.

The road to recovery was not easy and a long drawn one. I knew I was riding on it when I had fewer episodes of emotional meltdown and the duration of each occurrence becomes longer. When I was able to start sharing with close family and friends without much crying and tearing, and eventually being open to sharing with those outside my close circle.

It took me 12 years, it was long but it is possible cos nothing is IM-POSSIBLE to Him.