What does depression feel like?

Horrible. If you want the short answer.

In the aftermath of the tragic suicide of Robin Williams, one of the funniest people of our generation, I got to thinking- just how do you communicate what it feels like to be depressed to someone who isn’t?

Because truth be told, the people who are often the most depressed are the people we know who seem happy or full of life and charisma. If you’ve never felt depression, you may never understand it.  So I’ve compiled a few ideas of ways we can communicate how it feels.

 

Depression Quest:

www.depressionquest.com

This is an absolutely fantastic “game” where you work through very real life scenarios of somebody who is depressed. Certainly perfect for the kinaesthetically minded individual as you interact and make choices – some of which are unavailable to you. Options such as “Snap out of it” for example, they seem like a fantastic solution but aren’t exactly an option for somebody with depression. It takes you through some of the very real concerns, such as being a burden on friends, that most depressed people will go through at some point. The sounds and colour schemes also help create the weight on the shoulders on someone suffering.

 

Spoon Theory:

www.butyoudontlooksick.com

Although this is written regarding the condition Lupus, it really applies very well to any hidden illness that drains you. I guess the difference with depression is that you can’t seem to access the other spoons you have, so instead you have to make choices based on the spoons you do have. The theory essentially goes that when you wake up you have a limited number of spoons and each action you do each day costs you spoons so you have to choose and prioritise your tasks carefully.  I know I’ve certainly had days where I’ve sat here wondering where the bloody hell all my spoons have gone.
Even though it’s meant about Lupus, it’s a pretty fine way to explain to people the choices you make when you’re drained and having a rough day.

 

Black Dog:

I like this analogy quite a bit and certainly you may find this useful when trying to explain to somebody who responds well to visual simuli. The video explains some of the sensations and thoughts of having depression using the analogy of a black dog who follows his owner around and basically causes a lot of problems.
I know that feeling, one day i’m fine, the next I come home and the darn dogs ripped up all my self esteem. Bad dog.

 

Being Creative:

Maybe these previous examples are lacking in the personal touch. So now I suggest it’s over to you. There are so many options in modern life to express yourself (thank you internet!).

Good with words? Why not start a blog? Check out purplepersuasion  for a fantastic example of how you can keep it nice and simple but create some really fantastic, nail on the head content.

Maybe writing isn’t your forté but who says you can’t fill a blog with photographs and art to express your feelings? You could even try creating your own webcomic.

You could also start up your own YouTube channel, discussing your experiences. Although currently on hiatus, the Positive Mind Project is a fantastic example of YouTubers talking about their experiences and sharing their knowledge.  They should also be making a come back this year, so watch out, big things coming!

 

It can be really hard gaining understanding from your loved ones but there is nothing more important than letting people know that you’re struggling – and don’t worry, you’re not being a burden.

If you’re feeling suicidal, please contact The Samaritans on: 08457 90 90 90

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