Yes, it is real and no we don't make it up in our heads for self seeking attention.
Depression and mental illness are real and common. The stigma behind it is profound and quite sad, people seem to have the idea people who suffer from such illnesses choose the lifestyle to live like that. I can promise you for certain no one would want to choose to be crying, laying on tiled-floor to try and let the anxiety attack pass by. No one would choose to be in bed and not have motivation to shower for days because that is an ugly, disgusting aspect of the illness. No one would choose to go through their days anticipating when one would happen. Anxiety and depression are not choices, and it affects every aspect of the person's life. While they can go out, and have fun and participate in most things it can take its toll, especially during high-stress situations. Unfortunately, with the stigma behind it there is the belief people who have anxiety love and need love the same as everyone else, and that is not the case whatsoever.
Loving someone who has any sort of illness is consuming, and a commitment. It takes a lot to be able to tolerate the heavy mood swings, tendencies, crying and emotional rollercoasters and never seeming to be good enough for the person. The truth is you are more than enough for the person if you love them the right way and they realize this. Holding their hand through an attack, laying next to them on the bathroom floor, noticing the actions and how their body language is before an attack can prevent future ones. Sometimes telling stories or funny jokes can take their mind off of feeling one coming on. Reassuring you love them is huge, there is a reason they are like this and whatever reason it is anxiety can change their perspective of themselves. As a sibling reminding them how proud you are to have them in your life, as a parent noticing their accomplishments like taking a shower and as a significant other praising them if they have done something lately to make you proud.
Understanding it's the small things that are the biggest goals and accomplishments.
It's the small moments like getting out of bed, taking a shower, going to class, doing homework that mean the most. With minds wrapped up in anxiety, it can be difficult to want to do anything. Anxiety and depression are both exhausting. Going to work can seem like taking part in a 5K. It isn't always easy, and trying to understand and celebrate the smallest accomplishments will for certain make an impact in helping.
