I suffer from depression, bi-polar disorder and anxiety. There are times when I don't think I will be able to go on. I'm on medication and I see a therapist. I also have a great support system. My friends and family are what keep me going most of the time.
Living with these illnesses, I have learned many things:
1. There are people who will listen.
I cannot fake my emotions. It is obvious from one look at my face if I am having a rough time. I tried for years to change this but it ended up being my saving grace. The people in my life who love me noticed that something was wrong and asked me what was happening. They patiently waited while I poured my heart out (after some gentle nudging). I'm not saying you need to pour your heart out to every person you meet, but it is beneficial to get the words out. This was important for me because I didn't even realize that I was depressed until the words flew out of my mouth. Just saying that I needed help was a relief that I didn't even know I needed.
2. You learn a lot about yourself.
I learned a lot about myself and the reason that I was so miserable. Accepting my diagnosis was hard but when I look back, I feel inspired because I made it through a very difficult time. Any time that I start feeling myself begin to breakdown, I think back to when I was first diagnosed and it gives me courage. I can get through it again. The thing to remember is that these issues are not a one time occurrence. When dealing with depression, it is a constant war and you have to be ready to fight to win.
3. You are not alone.
You may feel like you are the only person going through a truly horrible time but the truth is, a lot of people have had similar experiences. Almost every time I open up about my depression, I can see the look of relief on the other persons face. Then we have a conversation about our illnesses and we both feel better. I become inspired when I hear that another person has won the battle against depression. It is empowering to be in the presence of someone who has looked depression in the eye and came out on top.
4. There are people who love you.
Even though your brain is telling you things like "no one cares about me" or "everyone would be better off if I weren't here". That is not the case. You are worthy of being loved and that little voice inside your head is a liar.
