This song was engraved in our brains at an early age. We were taught as young children to show our happiness and don't get me wrong, you definitely should. It's great to be happy and everyone loves feeling that way, but why aren't we taught to speak out about our sadness? Why are we taught to bring our happiness to attention while shushing and hiding away our deeper unhappiness and unease with ourselves?
The ugly truth of the matter is this: no one wants to talk about it. Why? While I don't nor can I speak for everyone, my assumption is that for some it is because they'll feel a sense of liability if they know about someone suffering while others would rather just act as if it isn't happening. No one wants to feel in charge of or responsible for watching over the "suicidal boy" or the "self-harming girl." Generally, the conclusion is to simply ignore it.
It's a huge weight put on someone when they know of another's struggles, but what is overthought and often forgotten is that the small weight placed on someone because they know about the problem takes some weight off the individual that is struggling with the problem. Being able to open up without judgment helps a mentally ill person feel a little less crushed by everything they're dealing with.
Instead of urging people to show their happiness like the song says, we should be encouraging them to open about their struggles and sadness. For any of you that haven't watched the animated movie Inside Out, watch it, but pay close attention to the lesson it teaches. It outlines an important principle that states you cannot notice the happiness without feeling sadness as well.
If you are someone living with depression: Open up about the sadness. You'll never know who could benefit from hearing that someone else is struggling with something similar to what they're dealing with or going through. Talk about the numbing pain. Speak up about the thoughts. It isn't "crazy" to go through hardness and mental illness. If anything, you will have bravery shine through by reaching out.
If you're someone who knows someone with depression: Be approachable. Be genuine. Be patient. But most importantly, be there for them. A simple "I'm here for you" message can go a long way. Let them know you are willing to listen and support them. That little lift of weight could very well be enough to keep them afloat in this ocean called life.
If I could change the lyrics, they would be as follows: "If you're sad and you know it, tell a friend. If you're sad and you know it, tell a friend. If you're sad and you know it, don't be scared to open up and show it. If you're sad and you know it, tell a friend."
