Both anxiety and depression are often just shrugged off as no big deal. Illnesses that aren't visible are often looked at as not real, although many struggle with a mental illness. Depression and anxiety are awful to deal with individually. Together, it's a living nightmare. Here is what people don't understand about living with both depression and anxiety:
1. There is No "Getting Over It"
I can't just turn it on and off whenever I want. Depression and anxiety have always been a part of my life. I didn't choose to have this be a part of me.
2. It Doesn't Always Mean Being Sad and Crying All the Time
Yes, it can mean being sad and crying, but other times, you could just not be feeling anything. Sometimes, the anxiety side shows itself more, and I'd be feeling an overwhelming wave of anxiety for a whole day at a time, and other times, depression hits harder and I'm feeling more flat than anything.
3. It is Still Possible to Live Somewhat Normally
This varies from person to person, but it's still possible to live life. Yes, sometimes I have those days when I stay in bed and ignore my responsibilities because I'm feeling crappy. Even if I am out of bed and living life, I still may have had to keep myself together from completely breaking down, so please just be nice. There are going to be phases in life where my depression and anxiety is terrible and unmanageable and I'll be scared that I'm stuck that way forever, but it's going to be ok. There's nothing wrong with telling yourself that you will fight through this and come out stronger in the end.
4. Panic/Anxiety Attacks Are No Joke
I don't think that anyone who hasn't had or witnessed someone they love have one of these can understand how horrible it is. They can come out of nowhere, from thinking even the smallest thought. Then the next thing you know, your mind starts racing and you start breathing heavily, getting nauseous, feeling like your life is in danger and that you might die. Before long, you will question if you're having a heart attack and truly dying, which will make your panic attack even worse. They can last hours. It's nearly impossible to tell when one panic attack ends and another one begins. Panic attacks and anxiety attacks can happen out of nowhere. It takes so much strength to pull yourself out of one. Please don't use this term when joking around with friends or saying that you had an anxiety attack when you clearly didn't, because mental illness is not something to joke about.
5. No, It's Not an Exaggeration
It's not for attention, and yes, it is real. No one would lie about being depressed and having anxiety. I sure wouldn't wish it on anyone. A lot of people are very understanding now and know that mental illness is very real, but I know that there is still a lot of stigma. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it shows that you're a very strong person. Not everyone has the same form of depression or anxiety, so don't assume that everyone goes through the same things. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it! Those who judge others that have a mental illness probably have never gone through it themselves.
