Humayoon Sial's Story

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

I was 18 and was preparing myself for undergraduate admissions for University. Everything was going fine, but then I suddenly started to lose my memory and self-control on anger. I tried to control my thoughts and anxiety, but things were going wrong.

My family members thought that I was trying to escape from my studies, they thought it was just me being dramatic. Nobody supported me, and I failed my entrance exams. I attempted the entrance exams again at two different universities but couldn't pass the exam.

I didn't know what was wrong with me, so I decided to reach out to my friend and he suggested me to consult with a psychiatrist, and I did so. I was diagnosed with depression. My depression could've been diagnosed early, but there was no one to support me in this regard.

Even though I received my diagnose late, I was a little happy that somehow I came to know what was behind my mood and anxiety.

Who has been there for you? How?

My parents love me very much, but they didn't know about depression and my situation, but after eight years they now understand my feelings and support me.

What lifestyle changes have you needed to make?

I need to be on different medicines for my depression. Some were for depression, and others were a mood stabilizer. I started to visit doctors and counselors to help with my depression.

I made my timetable a perfect schedule for my life. I do my very best to follow it, but if I miss any scheduled task, I notice my depression becomes a little worse.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

I'm proud that I have learned to control my anger, my feelings and my anxiety. I'm proud of myself and that I'm still living.

What's your advice to someone else living with depression?

Depression is an illness. Don't think that you are the only person in the world with this illness. Please know that you show courage, bravery and strength every day you wake up and get out of bed.

You are not alone! Please don't suffer in silence. Please reach out to your friends, your family, your neighbors, or your doctors. They can help if you let them.