most people imagine depression Depression can be expressed in many different ways, some more obvious than others. On the other hand, some people find it difficult to break free. Others may be able to get to work without a problem while leaving their bed. It depends on the person.
To find out how depression manifests itself in ways that others cannot see, We asked the Mighty Mental Health Community I would like to share one thing that people don't realize they're doing because they have depression.
Here's what they had to say:
1. “In social situations, some people don't notice that I'm withdrawn or don't talk much because of my depression. Rather, they think I'm being rude or that I'm intentionally… I consider myself antisocial.” — Laura B.
2. “Sometimes I struggle to get out of bed for hours. Then just thinking about taking a shower makes me tired. Once I do that, I'm ready for a nap. People don't understand, but… anxiety And the depression is just as exhausting as the actual physical fight with a professional boxer. ” — Juli J.
3. “You agreed to a social plan but canceled at the last minute. You're using excuses, but in reality you just ran away. When that happens, your friends don't actually want to see you, they're just in the mood.” It makes people think it's all their fault. It's their duty.'' — Bryn L.
4. “I hide in my phone. Yes, I'm addicted, but not like other people. I don't do anything social, I play games and shop online. I browse to distract myself from negative thoughts. It's my safe bubble.” — Eveline L.
5. “I go to bed at 9 p.m. and sleep all night until 10 or 11 a.m.” — Carissa D.
6. “I isolate myself, I'm so uninterested that I don't reach my potential at work, I make self-deprecating jokes. I've said it many times before. I laugh so I don't cry.” Unfortunately, that's all too true. ” — Kelly K.
Photo provided Christopher Lemercier upon unsplashA man sitting on a chair and covering his eyes
7. “When you're feeling down, you reach out because you want someone to tell you that you're not alone.” It's not because I want attention.” — Tina B.
8. “I don't like talking on the phone. I prefer writing text messages. There's less pressure there. I'm also anti-social. I'm sure it's not because I don't like being around people, but because I don't like being around people.” Because you can’t stand me.” — Megan B.
9. “I overcompensate in my work environment…and since I work on the front lines of a fitness center, I feel the need to portray an 'extra happy and cheerful personality.'” At the end of the day As soon as I walk out the front door, I feel myself “falling over.” It’s so tiring…I’m an expert at hiding it. ” — Linda H.
10. “Excessive drinking. Most people think I'm trying to be the life of the party, or that I just like to drink.” That's why I often get compliments. But my problem is much deeper than that. ” — Teresa A.
11. “I sometimes feel anxious about social situations, so I try to distract myself by locking myself up in my room for hours on end and watching Netflix or Hulu, or I frequently go to the bathroom or another room during social gatherings.” — Kelsi F.
12. “When I say I'm tired or not feeling well…they don't realize how much depression can affect them physically and mentally.” — Lauren G.
13. “Answer slowly. It slows down your mind and prevents you from thinking of an answer to a question quickly. Especially when someone asks me what I want, I don't really want anything.” I'm isolating myself so I don't have to be forced into situations where I'm exhausted and have to respond.” — Erin W.
14. “Sometimes I forget to eat throughout the day. I feel my stomach growl, but I don't have the energy to get up and make something to eat.” — Kenzi I.
15. “I don't talk much in large groups, especially when we meet for the first time. I withdraw due to anxiety and depression. People think I'm “stuck up.” In fact, I'm really scared that they might hate me or think I'm crazy just by looking at me…” — Hanni W.
16. “He doesn't communicate with anyone, has poor personal hygiene, and reacts very badly to seemingly small things.” — Jenny B.
17. “You get angry, mean, or rude to someone you love without realizing it in the moment. Then you realize what you did or said and then take out your anger on people who don’t deserve it.” I deeply regret what I did.” — Christy C.
18. “I intentionally work on holidays to avoid spending time with my family. It's very difficult to be around them and talk about the future and life, so I avoid it.” — Aislinn G.
19. “My house is very messy.” — Cynthia H.
20. “I volunteer for everything from attending PTO meetings to babysitting to cleaning other people’s homes. I have to get out of bed and get out of the house. I'm surrounded by situations and obligations that don't allow me to be, because if I'm not needed, I'm not needed.'' — Carly W.
This story was originally mighty First published here on July 21, 2017