I just read a long and very heartfelt FB post from someone that suffers from Depression. I do not know this person and I do not know the struggles in which they battle each and every minute. All I know is that I hope she finds peace. With that said I want to make my own comments about the topic she was discussing. She was angered by the recent posts about depression in the wake of Robin Williams passing. I am sadden to hear about his death and I understand some of the struggles he may have faced. I too battle depression, however my sadness is anger. I figured it out on my own and I did through awareness. This is where I differ in my opinion from hers. Posting phone numbers of helplines, links to informative pages, and the rush of information that has flooded IS beneficial. If one person gets helps because they saw a post on FB, then social media has helped. Those who are depressed can only get help if they know there is a problem. Living with depression is often what happens because those affected dont know where or what to do. If media did not work then billboards, pamphlets in doctors office, and even television commercials would never have been used in the last few decades. I know someone very close and important to me, that I feel suffers from depression but I cant be there all the time never leaving them alone to help them find better health. So I was angered when I read on the post that to help I must give up all in my life to help this person I love. Just as Robin Williams family most likely was doing all that they could to be there and support him and help him. You cannot help those who do not want help. You can try and you can give up everything in your life, but eventually you will have to step away for this or that or you will end up alone and depressed. Do not place burden and blame on those around the depressed. A support system is needed, but you must be your own support system too. No one should ever rely on someone for their whole health.
Posted on: Tue, 12 Aug 2014 20:49:38 +0000