When depression hits you, it sucks. You suddenly feel really sad, and you don't want to do anything. Nothing can really make you feel happy, and you just sit there with a hole in your stomach. Your head is empty, and yet it's not- it's thinking about everything you've done wrong, and how you got in this situation. You think of all the friends you don't have- or all the friends you do have who may not actually like you. It's so lonely.

And while some people will try to cheer you up, it doesn't really work. You just feel like a weight, and you don't want to ask anyone to carry you. But why are you sad? Why can't you just smile? Trust me when I say that depression can come to anyone, at any time. It doesn't matter if you have the best life ever, or if you're traveling the world, or if you're hanging with friends. You can still be depressed. People need to realize that if you're depressed, it's not them- it's you. Depression isn't something you can control, and that's totally fine. You shouldn't feel guilty for being sad even when there's no real reason. If you're friends really love you, then they will accept that you may get depressed around them. And they will give you space if you need it, or they will comfort you if you need that.

So, next time you tell your friend that you just really don't feel like hanging out, don't feel guilty. You're allowed to sit in your room and feel sad if you want to. There's no shame in that. You deserve to take care of yourself and do whatever you need to to feel okay. Or, if you're feeling depressed and need to be surrounded by friends, you shouldn't feel guilty about texting people and asking them to hang. Please don't feel like you're annoying them, or that you're bothering them. If you need to talk, then talk. I know it isn't easy, but if it will make you feel better, then please do it. You are amazing, and you're feelings are valid, so you deserve to do whatever you need to in order to feel better.

People have to realize that depression is normal, and everyone has probably experienced it at least once. And it's just as valid as breaking a leg or having a migraine. It's not a physical illness, however, it can feel like that. People with depression deserve respect, and they deserve to be happy and loved. So, if one of your friends feels depressed, don't complain that they're ruining the fun night or they just need to lighten up and have fun. Ask them what's wrong, ask them what they need, and validate their feelings. They are your friends, after all.