Some days feel like this for me. They\u2019re unbelievably tough\u2014mainly because I feel like everything, even the smallest things, is exhausting. Nothing really motivates me then. Everything feels bleak, heavy, and dark. I often feel alone. <\/p>\n\n
A lot of other people feel exactly the same\u2014and yet completely differently. It\u2019s an illness more individual than a fingerprint. It comes and goes\u2014but never really. Wrapped in shame. Stigmatized, and misunderstood. Depression. <\/p>\n\n
I don\u2019t want us to be ashamed of it. Or is anyone ashamed of a broken leg? …if I could, I\u2019d ask my friends to draw on my cast. But there\u2019s no cast for us. <\/p>\n\n
I want all of us to take good care of ourselves and each other. Self-care matters. Because, like everyone else, we have to function again every single day. <\/p>\n\n
It\u2019s important not to lose sight of the beautiful and important things. Our anchors in life. Family. Friends. Hobbies. Nature. <\/p>\n\n
After my family, I found anchors in pottery and nature-focused photography.<\/p>\n\n
Others write or paint. Ride horses. Have pets. Volunteer. Do crafts. <\/p>\n\n
Everyone can find something that gets them through the day\u2014with small and big moments. <\/p>\n\n
If this speaks to you, I want to tell you: You are valuable and irreplaceable. You are not alone. You will find help. You will get through the day. <\/p>\n\n
Depression can be treated well, and it\u2019s possible to live a good life with it. Accept help! <\/p>\n\n
If you\u2014or someone around you\u2014has suicidal thoughts, you can find help here: <\/p>\n\n