Depression has become a heavily-discussed topic in the past few years, yet an abundance of people with mental health issues do not feel ready or right to speak up about what is bothering them. Instead of forcing people to talk, sometimes all a person can do is spread love into the world and do the best to make others smile. So this article is for anyone who is feeling pretty low or who just haven't been themselves lately.

While no individual can understand the exact same pain that another is going through, we as human beings are still somewhat united by the pain we experience. It may seem like the world is trying to swallow you up, and it could feel that way. While I am not the biggest optimist you will ever meet, I do believe in the rational idea that since good things don't last forever, bad things don't last forever either.

Now I could sit here and say all the encouraging pick-me-up slogans like 'Be yourself' or 'Chin up, Buttercup', but even as the word-loving, grammar-corrector I am, I know there are certain times when words become obsolete. So I will instead encourage this: feel as much of your pain as you need to. No, I am not advising you to wallow in sorrows, but rather to stand your ground about not being okay because personally, I am not a fan of faking it til you make it.

Take a breath.

If you feel like talking to friends or family, by all means, talk to them! If they cannot grasp what you're trying to confess, maybe they can help you find therapy, so a professional can help. If you just want to walk up to your loved ones and give them quiet hugs, go ahead! Sometimes a good hug just helps make life a little more bearable. If you want to be left alone for a bit, at least give a heads up to those who would ask what's wrong. No matter what, do not try to make light excuses about what you're going through to others because that won't help you or them.

I do not pretend to understand anyone's personal troubles on the same level, but I do understand that everyone has different levels of pain that are not always acknowledged. I say acknowledge your pain and be unapologetic about it. Do what you have to to get through another day.