Depression is REAL

I remember when I was younger, I assumed that when one was depressed – it simply meant that, that person was sad.  As I grew older, I realized that it was something more than being sad. I learned that being depressed meant something more.  It didn’t just mean that one was really sad, crying all the time, enveloped in problems – these are merely the outer layer that people see.  What they don’t see and realize is that it goes deep within a person.  I’m sure you’re asking – why?  Why am I writing about this?  Well, because it hit a nerve.  I cannot explain it but I understand to some level why a person would think of suicide.  I’ve had thoughts about it a couple of times in my lifetime.  For sure you will label me as weak but I tell you – inner turmoil is different.  Thoughts are ripping you apart!  It may seem superficial to you, but I swear – its real and it is happening. I ask you NOT TO JUDGE people who are depressed.  Don’t dismiss their being depressed as something to be ignored, that it will eventually go away.  It will go away, depending on the person’s coping mechanisms.  Don’t pass judgement, instead – try to help. I got this screen cap from my friend Apot.  I hope you don’t mind that I posted it here on my blog.  I felt that this would help people understand the situation better.

Here is the complete link: http://www.blogher.com/what-suicide-isn-t-rip-robin-williams Depression is REAL so don’t be too quick to judge.  Remember, unless you have gone through it, don’t pretend that you know how it is to be depressed. To Robin Williams – THANK YOU for the movies that you made.  I especially loved Dead Poets Society and With Honors when I was growing up!  All of your movies – I think most everyone has seen.  Thank you for making us laugh and sharing with us your great great talent.  We are sorry not to have noticed you were battling something.  I wish I could have held your hand and cried with you.  Thank you Robin Williams!  Thank you!!