Dealing with Depression in a High Demanding Society

We have all had our bad days. Those days where we feel completely beside ourself and seem to have a harder time getting through our daily routines. It can be mentally exhausting just trying to work through simple tasks we manage any other time effortlessly. For some people these bad days can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few years. This is commonly known as Depression. Depression can affect your life in many ways. Especially those who suffer with it longer than others. Dealing with depression in a society that requires you to be high functioning at all times poses its own individual risks.

I was diagnosed with depression when I was as young as 14. I have since been through many other experiences that have not necessarily made it any easier to handle over the years. The world doesn't stop moving when you do. Others who are not dealing with the same mental obstacles will not always readily understand your struggles. I am still responsible for my family, my own health, and maintaining a job all while trying to manage what goes on in my head. Without the proper support system it can feel impossible to do this without sending yourself into a downward spiral.

Depression is different for each individual making it difficult to know exactly how to combat it. Work becomes more difficult than usual as those around you expect you to act as if everything is normal. Depending on your job you sometimes end up dealing with people that can cause your state of mind to worsen. It's like a never ending cycle that you end up trapped in as these negative emotions tend to feed off one another. The feeling of helplessness grows and confusion sets in. You become overwhelmed with so much it becomes difficult to think. Many jobs do not take mental health seriously until it starts to affect your work. Even then, you end up with consequences rather than support. Those who are able to function as if normal while dealing with so much are truly underrated.

Trying to have a social life while dealing with depression is also very tiring. I spend a lot of time keeping to myself. It has been the easiest method to conserve my energy. It can strain relationships with significant others and friends. Friends and family may take the sudden introvertness personally resulting in uneasy tension. This can can cause the depression to worsen leading to neglecting yourself and daily activities. Waking up to start your day becomes more of a hardship than a natural ability. Once again, the world does not stop moving just because you do. I have no choice but to get myself out of bed and handle my responsibilities the way any other functioning member of society must. Since those who suffer with depression are still expected to carry on the same as those with a normal functioning mind or face repercussions it causes many people to quietly try and combat their suffering alone.

Mental health is a very neglected phenomenon in general thanks to the lack of awareness and stigma it holds. Due to the infinite pressures of society simple peace of mind for those suffering with depression turns into a luxury. It becomes a gateway to other mental struggles which can cause those close with the suffering individual to begin to suffer as well.