The Worst Thing about Depression: a Simple Explanation for Family and Friends

What It Feels Like to Be Depressed

What is the worst thing about being depressed? You feel Broken, Hopeless, and Alone. Even if you have people in your life who would support you, you feel like you can’t open up to them. They wouldn’t understand anyway. So you withdraw from everyone. Negative thoughts replay in your head over and over again. “You’re better off dead. No one cares about you. You’ll always be alone. Things will never get better.” And you believe them. You’re unmotivated. There are so many things you want to do. You truly want life to get better. But at the same time, you just don’t care. You don’t want to do anything. It’s not worth the effort. You ask yourself, “What’s the point?” You convince yourself that nothing matters. You’ll still be miserable. You’re tired, sluggish. There’s no excitement in life. Every day seems to drag on and on. You’re existence seems meaningless. If you work, you’re counting the hours before you go home and get in bed. If you don’t, you’re unable to get out of bed. The bed is comforting. It’s like a sanctuary or a safe space. You’re shielded from the world but blanketed in sorrow. Then you have to face the stigma. Not everyone understands depression. They think you need to pull yourself together. They think you’re weak. Well-meaning people might tell you to exercise or pray or go out and have fun. But it all falls on deaf ears. The only thing you can hear is the sound of your own thoughts telling you how you’re less than. So the worst thing about depression? You feel hopeless, broken, and alone.

Depression is the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide.

How do you know if you are Depressed.  Here is a Depression Quiz.  Depression does not discriminate. It affects all ages, all walks of life, in all countries. According to the latest estimates published (April, 2017) from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 300 million people are now living with depression.   Although there are known very effective psychological treatments for depression, fewer than half of those affected in the world (in many countries, fewer than 10%) receive such treatments.

If you are depressed or know some one who is depressed, there is great news.  Psychotherapy is proven to help those with depression.  Reach out.

Shawna Freshwater, PhD

Hi, I am Dr. Shawna Freshwater, a PhD licensed Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Holistic Practitioner. ** I provide Psychotherapy, Coaching, Healing, Diagnostic testing & Mental Health Check-ups. ** I meet the needs of my patients and clients that are confidential and convenient to their schedule. ** I offer Remote / Online secure interactive video conferencing to USA residents and International clients. ** I also provide Concierge services at your home, office, or private location of your choice if you reside in South Florida Major Cities. ***Please see my website for more information about my credentials and areas of expertise. www.SpaciousTherapy.com Thank you. Dr. Freshwater