Oh crap, he's started talking about depression; time to look for an escape route. Doesn't he know how awkward it is listening to his stories about it? Why doesn't he just go to a therapist or try to get over it? I don't want to be rude but - oh good he's changed the subject.
I don't think it's simply because we're British, but talking, in person, about mental illness tends to be a hugely uncomfortable scenario for many people. It's as if it's a topic laced in guilt and darkness; openly chatting about mental health issues almost seems taboo at times. Cancer? Hundreds of adverts and thousands of women wearing bra emblazoned t-shirts. Abortion? Vocal, public discussions about women's right to choose and babies' right to live. STIs? Graphic adverts about the dangers and free STI checks in university toilets.
Depression? Hollywood actor is killed by it and we all realise how little we know about the illness.
I know it's not exactly enlightening or entertaining to chat over a drink about how I felt when I self harmed or the crushing darkness that can envelop me at times, but that should not mean depression cannot be a topic in the public conscience. It's tricky to explain depression because it is so entwined within the mind and everyone experiences different symptoms. There is a universal truth too and if depression was visible and somehow physically manifested itself on the outside of your body it would probably look like a purply, black growth dominating a person's entire head. It would be large and it would pulsate; it would push down on the person's scalp creating a gruesome frown and snarling mouth. It would be hard to look at and quite upsetting.
This growth though, would be talked about and cures would be found and discussions would be had. Its physical presence would create productivity.
The inner emotional growth is much harder (but not impossible) to see and therefore becomes a topic almost off limits at a dinner party. It's not to say people don't care but more people just don't know so feel a bit awkward.
Depression is common; depression is dangerous; depression can be beaten. If you have the chance, talk with me about it because there's a lot of light I can share too.
Peace. x
I agree that it is an illness that should be talked about more. So many people see it as "winter blues" or "feeling down" when it is so much more than that. People often do not understand the physical impact that happens as well, for example the constant exhaustion and inability to complete simple tasks. As I have been ok for such a long time (until the last month) I have taken to talking as through it is an attack. I am on antidepressants but sometimes for no apparent reason an attack is triggered.
ReplyDeleteIt is difficult for people to understand this.
Anns