Depression and anxiety are two very difficult things to deal with. The worst part about having one or both of these problems is the confusion they bring. It is hard to navigate the differences between truth and fiction when it comes to depression or anxiety. I have suffered from all of these before, but I want you to know that these are not true at all. If you've ever believed one of these lies, I hope you can realize the truth. Here are 11 lies that you may have encountered.
1. "You can't control it."
You can control it. It may seem that everything is out of your control but it's your body and your mind. You are the only one who can really control it.
2. "No one else understands."
You are not alone. There are thousands of people who deal with anxiety and depression. Find someone else who understands and confide in them. They are out there, I promise.
3. "Something must be wrong with you."
There is nothing wrong with you. You were fearfully and wonderfully made by a Creator who loves you. (Psalm 139:14). God doesn't make mistakes.
4. "Your friends don't actually care."
Your friends do care. But they probably don't know you need them. Ask for help. Your friends aren't superheroes. They can't sense what's wrong.
5. "You will never be good enough."
Depression tries to tell you that you will never be good enough. Anxiety makes you worry about being good enough. The truth is that you are good enough. You are capable of whatever you want to do. Don't let this lie hold you back.
6. "You don't have a real problem."
Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it's not there. I can't tell you how many times people have looked at me and told me I'm faking it or that I'm just overreacting. It's not true. It's a real problem. But the good news is that it's treatable.
7. "You have to hide it."
It may feel like keeping everything inside is best but, it never solves the problem. Don't hide your depression or anxiety. Get help and find someone to talk to. Sometimes you just need someone to tell you it's going to be okay.
8. "You're just crazy."
You are not crazy. The people telling you this are crazy. Having depression or anxiety doesn't make someone crazy. It's not something to criticize so heavily. You never know what people are dealing with.
9. "It's just a phase."
Depression and anxiety are not just a phase. They may last a lifetime. Don't let people trick you into doing nothing. It may not go away if you ignore it.
10. "There's no hope."
There are a lot of times that you will feel hopeless. But you have to ignore it. There is always hope for you. There is always a way out. Find it.
11. "You are worthless."
This is the biggest lie of them all. No one is worthless. Everyone has potential in this world. There is so much for you to accomplish. So much left for you to do. Don't fall prey to this lie.
If you have severe depression or anxiety and have contemplated suicide, I urge you to call 1 (800) 273-8255 (The National Suicide Prevention Hotline) and to find help. Don't fight this alone.
