We are living in an age based on many technological forms of communication. It is understandable "memes" may be quite controversial. However, some say the meme this article will be discussing has crossed a line.

The aforementioned photo that has been surfing the web shows two merged pictures: one of a forest and the second of a pill. The verbiage on this "meme" says something to the form of nature being an antidepressant and pills being worthless.

The main reason this photo should be considered problematic is because of the implication it may have on people struggling with mental illness. Yes, some people can be aided by nature when depression steals their day and, yes, pills do cause some hormonal differences that can be frustrating.

That being said, nature cannot cure everyone. Many people find it hard just to get up in the morning due to their depression or anxiety. Many people are not able to live a satisfactory life without the help of medication. No, this does not make them weak. In fact, some could argue it makes them incredibly strong because they managed to find the will to dig themselves out of their mental prison and seek help. Nature is gorgeous, and I do agree we should spend more time admiring it, but it is not a cure for everyone.

Medicine to help treat depression (and the like) has saved many lives. This meme is adding to a stigma that inhibits people with mental illness as well as creates a false definition of depression. This "meme" is dictating to people who are struggling how they should aid themselves. Put yourself in their shoes: what if you had a chronic illness and people told you the only way to cure yourself was by walking a mile every day? I imagine that you wouldn’t feel very good. That is how this "meme" is affecting those with mental illness.

Think before you speak.