There is nothing more frustrating and hurtful than when people say depression is just being really sad and suicide is selfish. Depression is not just being really sad. Depression is feeling like you are constantly drowning. Like you are living in a constant fog that never clears up. The pain of depression is endless, but unseen to everyone. It is a daily struggle that, unless you have been through it personally, you do not and will not ever know anything about. There is no way to explain it, it is frustrating, and it is something you cannot escape. Depression is feeling like not existing would be easier than trying to fake happy another day. And, let me tell you, faking everything is exhausting. Suicide is viewed as selfish, but as someone who has suffered through it all, it seems like the only way we can find any relief. If we felt like there was another way out, we would take it. Sometimes, though, that seems like the only way to stop the pain. I struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts and it is by the grace of God and the people He put in my life that I am alive today.
I understand that people are angry, hurt, and emotional by the actions of Robin Williams, but before you make a comment about something you know nothing of, think about it. You never know how hurtful and offensive your words could be to one of your friends or family. So, please, for the love of all things good, just stop.
Jenna,
ReplyDeleteYour words are insightful, wise, and thought provoking. You're right, those that do not suffer from depression cannot and will not, ever be able to understand this disease. I can understand it clinically, intellectually, but do not understand at all the emotions, or lack thereof, that affect a person in this way. Someone I know very well suffers from depression as well, and this person has explained what it's like--very much of what you say as well. I pray for you that you continue to have hope and joy in your life. I pray that you continue to be passionate and flow in the very gifts that God has given you. I pray that you continue to smile that beautiful smile you have, and be bold and honest and open in order to help others that suffer from depression, as well as their family members. Continue to be passionate, Jenna, and thank you for being you!!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! There have been a lot of hurtful comments going around about depression from people who have never been through it. Sharing your thoughts as someone who has been through it is one of the best things you can do. We need to spread truth, compassion, and hope to counteract all misinformation and judgement that's been going around.
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