Depression

With the passing of Robin Williams yesterday, I've felt very strongly that I need to share about depression. We all remember Robin as a genius; a hilarious genius. He was happy and personable, which is why we feel as though we lost one of our friends. 

Guys, depression is a real thing. I have family and friends that suffer it. Heck, I suffer with depression. Thankfully I have mine under control and have way more good days than bad. Other people aren't so lucky, though. As I was talking with my mom last night, we both agreed that sometimes, when people commit suicide, they just want to have the pain stop for a little while. Some of them might not mean to take it that far. There comes a point that depression takes over for some people, and it becomes a silent disability. Take my uncle, for example. He suffered with depression for many, many years. I honestly don't remember him ever being depressed, because he was always so happy and full of energy with us. But he was depressed. REALLY depressed. It got to the point that he turned to heroin simply because he needed the pain to stop. Unfortunately he was dealt a bad batch, and it cost him his life. I truly believe with Mr. Williams, that he just was seeking for the pain to go away for a while. 

For a lot of people, depression doesn't get to the point of suicide. But for others it does. I don't believe that makes them a coward. I don't think that they're really able to focus on anything else than stopping the pain. I think at that point, the depression has completely overwhelmed and taken over them, and they're just seeking a way out. 

Depression affects everyone whether you have it or know someone that does. Here are some of the signs of clinical depression (taken from WEBMD): 

Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions

Fatigue and decreased energy

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness

Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism

Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping

Irritability, restlessness

Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex

Overeating or appetite loss

Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment

Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings

Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

If you or someone you know is dealing with these, please seek help. Call your doctor and consider taking medication to help. I do. I'm not ashamed of it. If you're considering suicide, I urge you to call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). 

Don't push those with depression out. Whenever we're at our lowest, that's when we need you the most.