It Helps Others to Understand
The best way to spread information of any kind is word of mouth. People trust what their friends and family have to say about certain things. Talking can help educate the people in your life about your experiences and how depression affects you personally.
It doesn’t have to be an extensive discussion; you don’t have to share everything you know and all of the facts at once. Start small with something you’re comfortable with and then be open to questions. They may ask questions that seem ‘silly’ or even offensive, but it’s because they don’t understand. They likely aren’t educated about the details of depression. Having first-hand experience with it you can help to correct any judgements or misconceptions they may have.
Not everybody lives in a situation where others will understand or are even open to it being an illness so start slow and with something you’re comfortable sharing. If it’s easier, you can start with facts; strong resources like brochures, reliable websites, and medical journals can help support your side of the debate.
It Makes You Stronger
In addition to bringing awareness and educating those in your life, talking about your depression can actually make you stronger. You’ll discover a new found courage in speaking out about your illness. It can be a difficult topic to discuss but you’re denying yourself and your experiences by keeping quiet. By sharing your story with others you could find a strength you didn’t know you had.
It also makes asking for a help easier. If your loved ones are aware of what you’re going through, then you don’t have to start from scratch when asking for assistance. Whether you need help seeking professional attention, help with chores, or even a distraction for a few hours, asking for their support will be much easier when they already know what’s going on.
It Encourages Others to Speak Up
Depression can often make you feel isolated; it could be due to stigma, negative emotions, or being the only one you know with the disorder. But it can be such a relief when you hear someone say that they know what you’re going through, or that they understand and offer their support. Group therapy is great for creating a sense of familiarity, or online communities such as this.
When Robin Williams passed away and depression was being splattered across all news and media platforms, so many others started speaking out about their struggle. It wasn’t just celebrities; here and there people could be heard saying, “I know what he was going through.” It can become so empowering to know that you’re not alone.
We find new strength and courage when we realize we’re not alone. Because of this, by talking about depression, even if it’s the slightest comment, you can encourage others to speak up as well. You don’t have to be a celebrity or someone in a spotlight to empower others; sharing your story can inspire others to do the same.
Conclusion
Depression can be heavy topic in our society due to the fear, stigma, and stereotypes that surround it. Opening up about your experience and knowledge can be the start of a big change.
Simply talking can help to break the stigmas that surround depression, it can bring awareness and education to the general public, and it can show you strength that you may not have known you had. So let’s start talking.
