On Depression

Thought Released on: 19/09/2017

My ( first) therapist told me during our last session that because I didn’t cry during our sessions is because I’m "probably not as depressed" as I say I am.

What the hell!

Isn't she aware that people are different , and some like me , need more time to (fully) open up.

Isn't she aware that it is easy to put on a fake face/smile throughout the day at work, around friends and family . Isn't she ware that what's not easy is going home afterwards and being a complete wreck and not knowing what do with yourself other than cry, self-harm (I stopped that years ago though), abuse substances

( never had to resort to this thank god), etc. People don't understand that depression has many different faces. It's easy to look at someone and tell them they are okay because of their facial expressions. A smile means nothing. Anyone can fake it.

Depression has many faces and expressions, and it can be manifested as :

• A persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood, or excessive crying

• Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain

• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

• Irritability, restlessness

• Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling “slowed down”

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, pessimism

• Sleeping too much or too little, early-morning waking

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities (including sex)

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts

Pease don’t make assumptions, and remember, there’s no shame in seeking help.

No man–or woman–is an island.

I cancelled the remaining sessions after that.