Depression, a look beyond the stigma
For years we have heard the word depression; However, little has been said about what having depression means to those who suffer.
I remember hearing people exclaim disparagingly about depression such phrases: “those who have depression is because they have nothing to do,” ignoring social and economic realities, which, if they are not the best, lead a person to the worst mental states: among them: depression.
The stigmas of mental illnesses, such as depression, unfortunately, simplify the illness and, at the same time, disqualify the suffering of those who suffer from it, which is painful, considering that there are more than 350 million people who suffer from depression in the world. World, according to the World Health Organization. And not only this, these figures have been increasing since 1990, and according to the most recent statistics from 2013, they estimate that the number of people with depression or anxiety has increased by about 50%. And it is estimated that around 10% of the world’s population is affected.
The above, beyond being figures, are human beings who, in many cases, have gone through disastrous moments, such as sexual abuse, drug use, living on the street without a weight to eat, and many more misfortunes that unfortunately end up influencing the mental health of those who live them. Let us remember that behind each mental disorder, there is a life story that caused it: therefore, it is necessary to understand it and, in this way, help those who require our help.
It is not about having the willpower.
Now, I invite you to finish the speech that depression goes away with willpower, why not? It is not true. This mood disorder does not look at social class, race, or background. People who suffer from depression need professional help and, above all, the support of their loved ones, who, on many occasions, have felt useless by not being able to help enough. However, there are many ways to help, for example: Let’s not tell someone suffering from depression that it is all a matter of willpower. Let us bear in mind that there are times when this mental illness paralyzes, to such an extent, the total meaning is lost for life, making us believe that the only way out is suicide. The idea is to help and not put more pressure because saying that “it’s all about willpower” can make the other person feel useless and unable to overcome what they are going through.
Suicide
Yes, suicide is a reality and the result of the unspoken.
For example, according to the World Health Organization, more than 800,000 people commit suicide each year, representing one death every 40 seconds. Suicide is the second leading cause of death, and in most cases, those who have committed suicide showed depressive disorders.
The above is an immense sample of the millions of emotions carried by those who have decided to transform their lives without the opportunity to obtain the necessary help and attention since we live in an indolent society that minimizes others' suffering. It is for this reason to keep in mind that it is our responsibility and opportunity to speak about mental problems. Also, educate ourselves to help us and help us.
Let us seek the necessary help. Let’s help as much as we can, stop the belief that if we show ourselves vulnerable, no one will scam us seriously. Let’s allow ourselves to live lighter, calmer, more human.
