One Truth About Depression

I can’t write about this without first saying that I realize my depression is not the same as your depression…or the depression of your friend, sister, or mother. After all, I would have no way of knowing, because, well…I’m not you.

Everyone is different, with their own life experiences and brain chemistry, childhood and family dynamics with all the light and darkness that they can bring.

I’ve fought my own battle with suicidal thoughts, the seemingly unbearableness of my pain exacerbated by relentless apathy and debilitating lack of motivation. It truly is like being in a deep dark pit with no way out.

I’m here standing on the other side writing this to you, whomever you are that happens upon this piece. And one thing I really want you to know, if you are in the pit…there is a way out.

And this is where so many fail. They have lost all hope of ever feeling better, of feeling even a little bit worthy. The future, if one can even bear to consider tomorrow, looks bleak.

And so onward progresses the dark thoughts and the downward spiral until they can’t take the pain anymore and end it for good, leaving behind bereft family and friends.

I read about someone who died by suicide and was grateful to read how his family described his passing.

They said simply…John lost his battle with depression.

While I hate that his loved ones are now grieving deeply, and I hate that the enemy of our souls has taken another precious person down, their courage to proclaim the truth about this terrible disease is crucial to helping all those of us who suffer.

The truth is living with depression is a battle.

How do we win this battle?

I believe the most important first step, of which there are many, is relinquishing control and admitting, as those in AA do, that we are powerless over depression— that our lives have become unmanageable.

We have to ask for help.

If you or someone you know is depressed and suicidal, dial 988. A trained and caring professional will be there to help you 24/7/365.

All it takes is one step. Then another. And another.

I am here for you in this battle.

I am here for you if you’ve lost someone in this battle.

I am here.

Love, Melinda ⚔️🛡️