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September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and throughout the last few weeks, Instagram has become flooded with empowering survival stories, raising social awareness on the illness. A new hashtag, #faceofdepression, is adding an essential layer of depth to the public conversation about hidden depression symptoms, and it's one we just can't ignore.

What do depressed people look like? What does someone with suicidal thoughts appear? What does depression feels like? Of course, many of us would probably picture a crumpled-up, crying shell of a person on a bathroom floor. However, the reality that #faceofdepression is trying to explain is that people who are struggling with feeling depressed often hide it in their everyday lives - meaning that they look like just about any other person you'd pass on the street.

One of the most touching contributions to the campaign was a video shared by Talinda Bentley, widow of Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington, showing him laughing and smiling just 36 hours before his tragic suicide. Don't take everything at 'face' value. If you think or know someone is showing the signs of depression, ask the hard questions before it's too late.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 if you or someone you know needs urgent treatment of depression. Call 1-800-273-8255 or go to their official website to live chat with a counselor.

#1

Face Of Depression

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Sam Shabadoo
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is really powerful! I'm a nurse and I pinned this to my nursing board so I can show my fellow nurses. Thank you for sharing your story, just by ready this I know that the world would not be as bright without you in it ❤

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#2

Face Of Depression

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varwenea
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Chester Bennington's suicide hit me incredibly hard. Whenever I was going through dark phases or sad times, I've always turned to Linkin Park music to get me through it. His raw intensity made me feel like someone understands darkness, and that I have someone to turn to. For many of his fans, his suicide has left a void that will not be filled anytime soon. I thank his bandmates for their heartfelt tribute. Their message was spot-on.

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#3

Face Of Depression

You can't tell can you? You can't tell by the look in my eyes or the sound of my voice even. You're thinking "You're smiling though!"

Yes. Yes, I am smiling. I smiled for you. I smiled so I don't make you feel bad. I don't want you to feel like I do. I also don't want you to feel like there is something you can do to make me "feel better".

There isn't anything anyone can do. I have to work through it on my own. The worst part is that this bout snuck up on me. I recognize the familiarity of it all though.

Empty
Lonely
Heavy
Tired
So tired
Everything is loud
Everything is annoying
I have no patience
I want to be left alone
I want to stay in bed
I don't want to work out
I want to eat everything without cooking anything

The best part is that I haven't felt like this in a very long time AND that I recognize it for what is. I'm the one who bakes and does crafts. You see that on the outside but you don't see the darkness inside.

For those that are also suffering....PLEASE SEEK HELP. Treatment is different for each person. Do what is best for you. I'm doing what works for me while I get back to Monique. So for now - I smile, and let people know I'm struggling.

Monique Holley-Peak Report

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sh
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

THIS! She describes it so well... "The worst part is that this bout snuck up on me. I recognize the familiarity of it all though. Empty Lonely Heavy Tired So tired Everything is loud Everything is annoying I have no patience I want to be left alone I want to stay in bed I don't want to work out I want to eat everything without cooking anything "

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#4

Face Of Depression

My daughter as well. The night before she ended up in the hospital they went to the daddy daughter dance and had an amazing time. Thankfully she's still alive today and learning to beat her illness. She was 8 at the time

Rayna Gawel Report

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Aurelia Grey
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Mercy. Hurts to look at her, hurts to learn how young she was, I hope things are better.

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#5

Face Of Depression

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Neb
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And this is why everyone needs to learn to listen. Appearance is not everything.

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#6

Face Of Depression

This is my son , right before going to his computer to look up how to properly hang himself. Two days later he followed through.

Tasha Bernstein Collins Report

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JillVille Child Care
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am so sorry :( I could not imagine the loss of a child this way. I have 4 teenagers. My heart is breaking for your family.

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#8

Face Of Depression

This is depression in our home. I tried to hang myself in my attic when the board broke and I broke thru the ceiling alerting my family. I fight every day. My husband tries his best but can't break through. I don't understand it. I don't know why I can't get rid of it. I have a wonderful family. I feel selfish, lost, sick and angry at myself. My brain has always been a little scrambled and I've fought just to make it thru school, I can't keep a job. I can't stay in task long enough or I take too long. I leave before I get fired. It's hard to feel worthless and I hate feeling like a burden to my family. I have so much pain inside. I'm in therapy I have meds. All I know is even though I feel like suicide would make life easier for my family, I also feel like if I could just get my head fixed and could be someone worthy, I really would like to stay around. I have been trying for so long I don't know if it's gonna happen for me. Today I am here. We will see how tomorrow goes tomorrow. I take it day for day and some times hour by hour. Sometimes i think If I can get through one more hour I'll go to bed and I'll sleep til tomorrow and see how it goes. Today has been ok. I'm trying to find something good today to give hope for tomorrow. Today I try.

Zoe Vanmeter Report

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Caroline Huot
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not just hour by hour honey... minute by minute, second by second!! I've been there... Take care xx

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Edouard Youssef
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

you two just broke my heart a little bit, but that is so true... I often go to bed and say "you're lucky if you're still alive tomorrow" like I wish sometimes I could stop breathing during my sleep and be quiet for eternity... Now I haven't got that kind of thought in a while, but you never know when it strikes back...

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Shannon Prestegard
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You have summed up how I feel and live everyday. I also use alcohol as a coping which has failed me miserably

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Katherine Montjoy
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a husband that stood by me and my illness for 12 years. Then he left. Then I attempted suicide 3 times. I guess it just wasn't my time to go. Now I'm on my way to building a fantastic life but those thoughts still creep in the dark corners of my mind and it makes me feel really guilty.

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Leah Foster
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

oh, girl. that's the tricky thing about depression. it screws up your perception of yourself. you are precious and your worth every effort. having a job or not having one won't ever change this very fact and i'm sure your family knows exactly this. death does never make anything easier for anyone. i think i know exactly how you feel. growing up as an only child to very ambitious parents, they taught me to measure the worth of a person by the number of their professional achievments. after my father became sick and had to change his job for a less prestigious one, he started spiraling downward. he hated to depend on someone (financially). it screwed up our family, for depression and chronic pain had made him an alcoholic. he died in rehab last year. no matter the still vivid memories of our struggle we would give ANYTHING to have him back. however sick and grumpy he might have been, the only thing that matters is the person. not the job, not the illness. don't give up, please.

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Joyce Stewart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You took the time to write about it. You opened up about it. You have taken the first step to wellness. I hope you know it. Gentle hugs.

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Tom Hosemann
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hey My name is Tom from Berlin, Germany You know you are not a machine which can do everyday the same. Your thoughts prove that you are a real human. Not a cold-hearted self confident business god that exploids the worlds resources, animals and other people. Feelings, emotions, self-doubts and many many, and also sometimes too many thougts make us more than any other animal in the world. That´s all part of our beautiful nature. That it how we were made. And I wish for myself and the world there would be more people like you and world would be a better place.

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Verity Barton
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Im genuinely wondering if u think being a blood donar or something would help, or volunteer working with people who have terminal diseases...? Not the homeless or anything that could make u depressed, something where u would feel your value & connect with the world with a deeper meaning? I hope u soon realise your worth, you are equally valid to everyone else - no matter age race or ability, you can make connections no one else can because u are unique, experiment with life as much as u can because something will make sense, even if it's small, grab hold of it. Not fearing death could give u beautiful freedom xxx

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Miriam Sanchez
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have you been tested for ADHD or bipolar? I used to be the same way before I was diagnosed with ADHD at 18. I would cry at night, asking myself if I was r******d/mentally handicapped, because I wouldn't start/complete tasks, and the ones I did, I always took too long. I would internalize that sense of failure and believe that I, myself, was a failure. I'm sure your family loves you, and I'm sure you hear "you should learn to love yourself" a lot. However, I'm here to tell you, learn not to hate yourself, and no, that's not the same thing. Not hating yourself means no getting stuck inside your head about everything that is wrong with you and needs fixing and the many ways you believe you're failing yourself, everyone else, and your life in general. Beating yourself up isn't doing yourself any favors.

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Bayu Angermeyer
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Was thinking the same thing. Always felt like something was wrong til I was diagnosed with ADD in my 30's. Therapy and medication saved me.

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Kelela
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please go & find a good doctor who is willing to try different meds, or combinations. You are so young & lovely, you have your whole life ahead of you. I know that probably means nothing & doesn't help. I am so sorry for your pain. You are loved, so keep fighting! ;

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John Foster
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have you tried God? Someone there all the time. People used to do that before the "enlightenment", The big lie. It's supposed to be difficult.

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Regina Marques
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I m sorry you feel that way ! God loves you and he wants the best for you ! Please seek him in your life . I had problems in the past and the way I coped was reaching to God and talking to others. Stay safe . You are precious !! Much love xxx

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I I
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

a day at a time is how a have lived my life since i was 12 , 49 now 4 kids married for 30 years but still i take it one day at a time , it's all i can do , as you say you never know tomorrow until it's here

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Just Me
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The first time someone said something and I just realised this mirrored my life as well. about not keeping a job and the reasons

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Brenda Salinas
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hang in there precious, if it takes to do a minute at a time, do it. You are worth it!!!

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Evi Evi
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just breathe and take it slow, It helps me to read about Zen, it has help me a lot lately, hope it helps u, cuz’ it gives u another perspective of life. Wish u a long life, I have fought suicidel thoughts since I was 16, I’m 45 and still trying to make sense of why I’m here but it doesn’t hurt as it once did.

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Michele Heckathorn
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh my God! Other than the suicidal attempts, that describes me EXACTLY! (Also, minus the husband. Mine couldn't handle me.)

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Cora van der Linde
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh sweetie, I don’t know you but I have tears reading yr story and I wanna tell you I love you! You are a brave woman ! Fight for yourself please and get help.... wish you many years to come in more (or less) happiness ❤️❤️❤️

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Barbara Bacigalupo
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope you go to a therapy group to help you some more. Becuz you are worth a lot to veryone. God intervened for a reason..

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Eleanor Orser
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Keep up the fight and keep searching for help. I pray you find it.

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Melanie Graber
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i`ll hope it will come better times for you! you have to believe in it. and your family loves you, with or without depression! you have to know that! dont give up <3 sorry for my bad english, i hope you`ll understand. i`ll send you mutch love and take care.

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BearlyShi
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I could see myself as I read the caption. And until now, I still couldn't find a valid reason of why I still exist :(

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Cindy jenkins
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Id you are in therapy and taking meds yet still feel depresssd and suicidal then it seems the doctor does not have the proper diagnosis or medications for you. You might want to get a second opinion - I pray you do- you're life is worth living - you deserve happiness. I'm praying you get the proper diagnosis and help you deserve. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

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Lynn Schwalbe-Larson
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please don't measure your worth on how well your mind works. You are worth a lot because you are the only you existing. Your family sure thinks so. I know it's hard not measuring worth by things you do or don't do. Sometimes I take it hour-by hour, min-by-min too. And sometimes I feel guilty too, why do I feel like this when I have a loving family and good home? But it's an illness, you know? You wouldn't berate yourself for not walking if you had a broken leg, right? Do you think you have Attention Deficiency too, and that's why the scrambled-brain thing?

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Joanne Albert Palcon
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

you are fearfully and wonderfully made. you are loved by our Creator. you are loved by your family. . prayers for you.

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Lily Winterhart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had all that, the days were endless and even with people I felt hopeless. Found out my meds were not going to my brain. Found a med called EnLyte and it helped my meds make it to my brain. The soul sucking depression finally lifted and today I barely ever have that feeling and I have been self harm and suicidal free for 1 year and 6 months.

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Hilal Öztürk
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It sucks! Sucks you in deeper when you are most vulnerable. I lived in a limbo-like mind for some time. I felt senseless about everything! So senseless that I thought suicide might make sense. But depression is a b***h! It will try to break you in the cruelest of ways. You have to fight it back with support! And have to make an effort to express yourself. Whatever gives you the slightest ease even for a few seconds.. use that! You can’t afford not to! I felt so helpless. I was so sure that my life was over. And a year has gone by.. I am full of life! We have to embrace the way of life and i tegrate it somehow to our personalities. If you think people don’t understand, which no one who hasn’t gone through this hellish phase(!) can, don’t waste the little to no energy you have on them! There is always support! Be open and be receptive. And find an experienced doctor! After several doctors I made it long enough to make a visit to the right doctor! I feel so normal!

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Brittany Coolican
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One of my best friends comes from a family of 6 children and their mother was convinced that if she ended her life it would be better for the children. After one failed attempt, a couple years later, she succeeded. Her family is not better. Instead they're lost and some of them totally broken. Don't feel selfish for your thoughts, but also don't feed the darkness by trying to convince yourself it'd be easier, because if that were true you'd be alone, not supported by people who LOVE YOU. Good luck.

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Princess Jade
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That pressure to 'get better' is part of the cycle. especially when your 'support network' isnt that supportive. :(

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Deborah Goodman
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Are the meds not helping? Have you got 2nd and third opinions? I know you can find a balance..its out there through changing your meds, meditation, creativity, ...your brain can be fixed. It wants to be fixed.People think the brain is the bos but the truth is, the chemicals have much to do with it, but just as much so do your thoughts...your brain is BEGGING for your thoughts to help change itself. You are in control, you need to find support and be with others on the same road. You are young. Be the explorer your brain needs. The answers will come and you will heal. I just feel this very deeply. Your meaning in life is to figure out what it is your brain and body are needing.....lots of people are looking for that answer..get support from others who are searchers like yourself. Give structure to your day, keep your depression under a schedule that you run...be brave and proud. You are not a loser, you are a winner who is going to help thousands of people. So many people need you.

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endelbendel
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Notice the tension at the mouth as if a bad taste, and in the shoulder making contact with the husband.

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Jacquie Colbeck
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I too have struggled to keep jobs but sometimes I get a lovely manager who helps me and I flourish,until they leave that is.With me its the anxiety first

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Francesca Ghedi
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel you... Really looks like my story... #hug be here to be at my side.. Cause I'm just another YOU... ❤️

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Jake Wong
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

will you consider alternative medication instead of meds?

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Thomas Lopezl
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

find your favorite place to sit and watch the seasons change and don't count the days...just count the moments you really thought about loving yourself...there is a way out...

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Elizabeth Ponce
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'll pray for you. Igualmente remember years of this... They last day I stopped at a churh and cried and told everything to God, I believe he saved me. A lady came and sat next yo me, I don't know when she got there... She handed me a praying book, I has to read it several times before I could make sense of it. I feel Jesús saved me there, healed me and sent her there for me. She wasn't supposed to be there for another hour. After that day I haven't felt again that abyss inside of me. I feel bad but nothing like those falls before that day. I don't know what would hace happened if she has not gotten there an hour too early.

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Don Żuan
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe try diet? I recommend reading about autoimmune protocol and how diet can lead to mental problems. Get well!

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Kim Lorton
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Go get help! Tell your husband to take you asap. You know something is wrong, he does too. GO, AND MAKE THEM PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT YOU FEEL!!

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Cindy jenkins
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Also, that board broke for a reason. You were not meant to die. You have family and friends who love you. You're young and can have an awesome life ahead of you. You are worth it! One day, one hour, one minute at a time- fight for the answer- challenge your doctors for a proper diagnosis and medications. God bless you 🙏🏼

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#9

Face Of Depression

My #faceofdepression and yes it is possible to be depressed with a child.

Hearing, "You don't have a reason to be depressed with her around" doesn't do shit but make me feel worse about myself

Being told, "All you need is exercise and a good diet" just makes me want to throat punch you even though you're coming from a good place

Depression keeps you from doing things you want to do because it's literally a chemical imbalance in your brain.

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Elaine Van Zon
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

yes ,been there, well meaning people saying utterly stupid things. I hate " We've all been there" They are trying to make us feel they understand but succeed only in showing how little they understand. No you havn't been there - you have NO idea. Your daughter is adorable ,you are doing a great and brave job as her Mum. I pray you find something that will ease your pain and make your smile real on the inside too

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#10

Face Of Depression

This is my boyfriend two weeks before hanging himself. Will never understand it...

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KK
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Posts like these can hit very close to home. Please reach out for help if you struggle with thoughts of suicide. It can be prevented. There is help available in your country, take a look: http://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html

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#11

Face Of Depression

This is what depression looked like not long before we lost our beloved Luke. Depression is a SERIOUS illness. Don't dismiss people who are hurting.

Lisa Althoff Report

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Nini
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Depression is like a worm, crawling under your skin and eating your flesh without anybody noticing. Because no one cares about what's inside of you. And everybody overreacts when something's seeable. But when "something" is noticeable is when you need people not to see, then you smile, every time for no reason, so they won't ask what you don't want to talk about. Because no matter what, when and whoever pretends to be here for you, everything looks fake, sounds wrong, and it hurts to realize how much you suck at life. And someday, it becomes too painful, you want to run away but everything's the same wherever you go. This is at that point that "suicide", "silence" and "darkness" start to look sweet, inspiring, necessary. Depression is a worm that deforms reality and makes "freedom" and "peace" rhyme with "death". I feel sorry for y'all, I wish your beloveds could have found a better way to relieve themselves from this pain.

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#14

Face Of Depression

Bipolar disorder here,(with a heavy emphasis on the depression side)...I get up, put on a full face of makeup, wear a fun dress, all while struggling with depression, anxiety and sometimes suicidal thoughts..

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#15

Face Of Depression

Currently at the doctor seeking help, most have no idea what I'm going through and that I cry in the shower or in the car on my way home from work or can't sleep at night because of panic attacks

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#16

Face Of Depression

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Neb
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These are some crazy criteria - if you cannot get up from bed or do not brush hair, it is way too late. Also, there is functional depression, where everything looks OK from the surface. Only looks.

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#17

Face Of Depression

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Jade Lynn
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As someone who is going through depression, ptsd, and suidice attempts etc, i feel like i can see it in the eyes of others when they are hurting. Makeup or no make up. I wish the best for all of us. Thank you and everyone else for sharing

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#19

Face Of Depression

Major Depression & PPD here. 3 weeks pp with #2 & going to the doctor is helping. Most times I feel like I'm drowning but last couple of days it's been easier. Sometimes just talking about it can be cathartic. PLEASE seek help if you need it. It's not failure. Sometimes you just need a little more time to get your shit together and that's ok, because being a functional parent is hard fucking work.

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Jenna Bois
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You need to take care of you to be the best parent you can. I'm glad you're finding talk therapy helping. You got this :)

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#20

Face Of Depression

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Duc Anh
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I dont know what happened to you, but whatever, you look beautiful

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#22

Face Of Depression

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Meagan Collette
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get you; I struggle with feeling like a failure every time I need to go back on medication.

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#23

Face Of Depression

The face of depression. Sometimes it looks optimistic. Sometimes it doesn't. And having a smart, beautiful child doesn't mean those feelings don't exist or that they're not valid. She loves me on my good days and my bad days.

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Jenna Bois
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I identify with this so much. Even on the bad days I find a reason to go on in my daughter. Because she just sees her mom, not the depression.

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#24

I Suffer From Fybromyalgia, Arthritis And Anxiety. The Years Have Been A Struggle.

I suffer from fybromyalgia, arthritis and anxiety. The years have been a struggle.

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JillVille Child Care
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You are so beautiful! Love your eyes, definitely a caring emotional person in there :)

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#25

Face Of Depression

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Sarah Laurent
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People need you, and love you, I promise. Even while crying, in bed, red wine or whatever ;)

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#26

Face Of Depression

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Alžběta Laurincová
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know it won't help you, but you are a very beuatiful woman! I love your eyes.

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#28

Face Of Depression

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#29

Face Of Depression

When people think about depression, they tend to have a very specific idea of how it manifests itself. I'm in the middle of a very real depressive episode and here I am at work with my plants and headphones

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#30

Face Of Depression

I have been struggling with depression and anxiety for years and years. I started experiencing symptoms around 12 and wasn't diagnosed or treated until I was 25. (Early on docs told me I didn't seem depressed.) Once my kiddo was born, my postpartum depression fused with my everyday depression and I almost lost it. It was my dream to be a happy SAHP, and even though I stayed home for over a year, I felt worse and worse every day. It took all of my energy to make sure my baby was taken care of. I developed severe sleep apnea, gained a lot of weight, and couldn't function outside of my parental duties.

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Nadine
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Being a mom with or without depression takes so much inner strength. Bless you for fighting and starting so strong. Been there, know that feeling

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#31

Depressed Since High'school, Drop'out, One Suicide Attempt, Severely Agoraphobic. In My Country Having A Mental Illness Means That "Your Parents Didn't Beat You Enough", Or, "Your Husband Should Throw You Out Of The House, Maybe Then You'll Get A Job". So I Learned To Smile Even In My Worst Days.

Depressed since high'school, drop'out, one suicide attempt, severely agoraphobic. In my country having a mental illness means that "Your parents didn't beat you enough", or, "Your husband should throw you out of the house, maybe then you'll get a job". So I learned to smile even in my worst days.

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Réka Viczián
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not just your country, middle-and-east europe still has room for improvement in the field of mental illnesses. I hope you have more good days than bad and wish you strength to get to the good ones!

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#32

Me, Two Days After A Failed Suicide Attempt. People Don't "Look" Depressed Because Depression Isn't A Facial Expression.

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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Me, Two Days After A Failed Suicide Attempt. People Don’t “Look” Depressed, Because Depression Isn’t A Facial Expression.

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#33

Stuck In A Panic Attack

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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Stuck in a panic attack, yes, that's sweat running down my Face. Battling for 15 years now, the fearless good times in between two bad phases are the reason I'm still fighting. Nevertheless I'm tired to explain what a panic attack feels like or what the reasons are I'm suffering from this disease. It's not my fault and I don't want to feel guilty anymore.

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#34

Face Of Depression

GAD and depression for probably two decades. My childhood nickname was "smiley". My positive attitude gets remarked on often. My brain still fires weird regardless.

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Tam-Tam
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I def relate. Sometimes the bigger my smile is in public, the more severe my depression is...and that is confusing understandably to a lot of people around me. Pls remember you are beautiful and worthy of happiness!

#35

Face Of Depression

I have suffered from depression for more than 2 thirds of my life. Think about that. Most of my life has been in pain and misery. Most of my life has been spent fighting my demons of suicidal ideation and convincing myself to stay, to keep fighting. There are days, even now, that I can draft my goodbye note in my head. There are days I can almost convince myself that my son and my family could be better off without me. Yet, this is no way makes me an unfit mother. One thing I never fail at for my son is loving him. Showing him he is loved. I know some of you say "you shouldn't have children if you are mentally ill" and to you I say: Eat a bag of dicks. My son saved my life. My son saves my life every day. I will not keep from him that I am sick when he is old enough to understand. I'd rather he see me battle my mind, than think even a fraction of my pain was caused by him.

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#36

I've Been Diagnosed With Borderline A Few Weeks Ago. My Head Needs Rest, My Puppy Needs A Hug

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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Got diagnosed with borderline a few months ago. Hard to hear but all fell into place. The depressions are hard, very hard. Thankfully i've been diagnosed, got a great counselor and am attending group-therapy. Keep strong everyone and thank you all for sharing your stories.

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#37

Two Months After Attempting Suicide And While I Was Considering Trying Again Every Day. Every Person Who Meets Me And I Tell I Have Depression Say; 'You Just Don't Seem The Type!' There Is No Type.

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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Two months after attempting suicide - while I was considering trying again daily. Everyone who meets me and who I tell I have depression say: 'You don't seem the type!' There is no type.

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#38

The Last Images We Have Of My Eldest Son's Father. Mother's Day 2012. We Felt He Was Making Improvements, But Jesse Completed Suicide June 12, 2012.

The last images we have of my eldest son's father. Mother's day 2012. We felt he was making improvements, but Jesse completed suicide June 12, 2012.

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#39

About Three Hours Before A Massive Panic Attack That Ultimately Ended In Self Harm.

About three hours before a massive panic attack that ultimately ended in self harm.

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#40

When You Put On Your War Face But Inside Is Where The Battle Happens.

When you put on your war face but inside is where the battle happens.

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#41

I Never Feel Normal, Accepted Or Accepted. I Struggle Always. I'm Thankful For My Support.

I never feel normal, accepted or accepted. I struggle always. I'm thankful for my support.

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Ivelina Gancheva
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dude, you cool, you remind me of the singer Banks visually. Be strong!

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#42

The Guy In Red Was My Dad, Less Than 2 Months Before He Took His Life. He Was 60 Years Old. He Told Us As Kids That He Had To Talk Himself Out Of Suicide Every Day. He Succeeded, But Not Without Letting Every One Of His Loved Ones Know How Much He Loved Us. I Miss Him Terribly, He Will Never Get To Meet My Kids Or Walk Me Down The Isle.

The guy in red was my dad, less than 2 months before he took his life. He was 60 years old. He told us as kids that he had to talk himself out of suicide every day. He succeeded, but not without letting every one of his loved ones know how much he loved us. I miss him terribly, he will never get to meet my kids or walk me down the isle.

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Jade Lynn
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so sorry for your loss. I am so sorry for his struggle.

#44

Taken Few Days Ago... Face Of Depression, Anxiety, Ednos, Bpd And Suicidal Thoughts. I'm Ashmed

Taken few days ago... Face of depression, anxiety, ednos, bpd and suicidal thoughts. I'm ashmed

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Neb
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You should not be ashamed. Would you be ashamed if you had cancer?

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#45

Depressed For Years, Nobody Noticed Till Last Year, It’s Amazing How Depression Can Hide

Depressed for years, nobody noticed till last year, it’s amazing how depression can hide.

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#46

Decided To Get Out Of Bed For The First Time In Months To Look Nice For A Picture

Decided to get out of bed for the first time in months to look nice for a picture.

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Chantelle Dixie
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Scarlet Johannson is that you? (Don't know if I spelt her name correctly) you do remind me of her but I hope you can fight through this tough time I'm struggling atm

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#47

This Is What Depression And Anxiety Looks Like. I Was In A Bad Place. I Am Fine Now, But Sometimes It Comes Back, And I Hate It. Luckily I Have Got A Support System Around Me That Helps Me Through When Out Gets Bad. But Most People Would Never Have Guess When I Struggle!

This is what depression and anxiety looks like. I was in a bad place. I am fine now, but sometimes it comes back, and I hate it. Luckily I have got a support system around me that helps me through when out gets bad. But most people would never have guess when I struggle!

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#48

"You're Young And Smart" They Say. "Depression Don't Exist" They Say.

"Depression? But you're young and smart" they say. And here I am with 11 suicide attempts.

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awesome_sauce.71
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

you are very pretty! I want to grow up and be as pretty as you and maybe my moms.It will all be okay

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#49

Anxiety And Depression For Many Years, I Put A Mask On I Guess At Times And Try To Make Out I'm The Fun, Smiling Happy One, But What Goes On Inside Is Darker At Times. Worry So Much About Things, Its Like The End Of The World When Changes Happen. I Get Paniced By Things, Angry And Distant Or I Breakdown And Cry. Its Not Only Mental But Physical Too, Ibs And Stress Symptoms That Make Me Feel Weak And Tired. My Artistic Part Of My Brain Does Help Break Things Up Time To Time, A Way Of Expressing Something That I Cant Feel. I Wish At Times I Could Eventually Feel More In Control, But Then I'd Be Scared Of That Feeling.

Anxiety and depression for many years, I put a mask on I guess at times and try to make out I'm the fun, smiling happy one, but what goes on inside is darker at times. Worry so much about things, its like the end of the world when changes happen. I get paniced by things, angry and distant or I breakdown and cry. Its not only mental but physical too, ibs and stress symptoms that make me feel weak and tired. My artistic part of my brain does help break things up time to time, a way of expressing something that I cant feel. I wish at times I could eventually feel more in control, but then I'd be scared of that feeling.

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#50

Depressed For 4 Years

Depressed for 4 years.

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