Understanding depression

That an individual is depressed doesn't always mean they will be all crying and looking blue in appearance.?

There's something called functional depression, where you look put together outside and even do public speeches with confidence but you return internally to face the unpleasantness of your own emotions at any chance.

I don't think we need to keep telling people to be kind because someone might be suicidal.

We need to evaluate our personal experiences the most to see how much we daily need the kindness of another. Then extend this grace toward others.

I've read numerous posts at different intervals where people would call individuals who are depressed or openly suicidal "selfish," "weak," and even telling them to think about their loved ones.

A struggling person is only thinking of his or her survival at that point. They don't need lectures.

One thing we must come to terms with as adults, is the understanding that life is not judged only through the lenses of our personal experiences. Too many narratives abound. Too many complexities.

Some people are more predisposed to depression due to their genetic makeup. Others have had a terrible history of some Adverse Childhood Experiences, ACEs, that may have distorted their developing brain and their interpretation of the world.?

They may feel unsafe, unworthy and largely insecure about their lives as a result of these unpalatable experiences.

Adverse Childhood Experiences are harsh events that happen to a developing child such as rape, brutality, molestation, death of a parent, siblings, poverty. Witnessing war, terror attacks or violence, etc.

These factors can affect the depression status of the adult or make one more likely predisposed to being depressed..

As a therapist, the things I hear some people went through as early as 3, 5 years of age torments my listening ears.

Life's complex. And for some, life has been nothing but pain.

Depression doesn't just happen. Please, know this. It is rarely an isolated issue.?

Poverty, childhood traumas, wars, terrorism, dysfunctionalities in family dynamics, genetic factors, joblessness, lack of meaningfulness...are possible causes of depression as we grow older.

Here are some likely signs of major depression:

• Prolonged sadness., irritability.
• Fatigue, constant tiredness.
• No desire to do much or even get up from bed
• Difficulty with doing what you used to enjoy doing.
• Isolation, boredom.
• Difficulty with bathing, possible changes in appetite to eating too much or not eating enough.
• Feelings of low self-esteem and unworthiness.
• Difficulty concentrating on what's before you.
• Change in sleep patterns to either sleeping a lot or not sleeping enough.
• Hopelessness, etc.?

Symptoms for functional depression are similar but less severe than major depression. It might last from a few days to longer years with the individuals fighting to appear put together while they struggle more internally.

A functional depression might lead to major depression.

How can you help people who tell you about being depressed or that appear depressed?

• Do NOT judge them. It is true that you went through worse experiences than they are going through, but this is not about you.
• Ask them how they can feel supported.
• Help them with chores because it's hard for them to move and do stuff, for the majorly depressed.?
• Hug them.
• Talk through their emotions with them when they seem willing to, and let them know you are there to listen.
• Support them through therapy.
• They might be moody due to the constant intrusive thoughts. Understand this, and don't be critical.
• Let them know you love them.
• Constantly ask them in what ways they might feel supported. It's about them, not you.
• Encourage them when they make efforts to do the little things, even as little as making their beds in the morning.
• Encourage them to live one day at a time. They need to survive now first. And appreciate their efforts with praise.
• Take long walks with them. Movements help a lot to boost our moods. And depressed people struggle with movements. They feel stuck in a place.

If you see that you cannot be of help, refer them to those who can.

Remember,?life is full of pains already. Don't be an asshole in another's life.

People are fighting so hard to survive. You can either add to their joy or stay in your lane.?

I wish us all happiness.

》Joy Iseki?

Your Healing Partner?

#depressionawareness #mentalhealth #healingjourney #joyiseki