Someone Just Perfectly Explained Why Depression Makes People So Tired, And More People Need To See It
Over time, depression and other mental disorders evolve camouflage so strong, they become almost invisible to the public. Almost. There are still a few ways to spot the parasites. 22-year-old visual artist and mental health advocate Pauline Palita has revealed a reliable method of how to spot people who struggle with mental health, and it’s resonating hard on Twitter.
“I’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder,” Pauline told Bored Panda. “I’ve decided to become a mental health advocate because I knew there were a lot of people out there fighting the same silent battles.”
“I know how hard it is to deal with this kind of illness, the feeling for not taking your condition seriously. I also know a lot of people out there who don’t have the ability to speak about it. The only thing I can do is spread and raise awareness, [trying to] end the stigma around mental illnesses.”
According to National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness in a given year. Moreover, mood disorders, including major depression, dysthymic disorder and bipolar disorder, are the third most common cause of hospitalization in the U.S. for citizens aged 18–44. Scroll down to learn one of the ways you can identify these dangerous conditions.
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Relating to the issue, people thought Pauline’s thoughts were spot-on
The part about the cat... I have social anxiety and I never know how to explain what it's like, but that's pretty much exactly it. I have very low empathy levels and can't at all tell how people are really feeling from external cues, so even when I do mange to talk to them, I'm constantly afraid they're just trying to not be d***s but can't wait for me to go away. My dream is a honest society, where telling people what you really think to their faces is the polite thing to do... because them I could stop worrying so much if I'm actually being liked or just being put up with. The fact that I know they actually mean well is what hurts the most.
I so share your desire where being honest to people is normal and polite. I cannot "read between the lines" and I'm constantly trying to figure out if someone REALLY means what they said or are lying (to be polite or malicious) It's exhausting and has made me withdraw and avoid people.
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Feel a bit better after seeing someone explaining the things I find so hard to communicate clearly.
Yeah this explains it so well... I stay awake for up to... about 5 hours I guess just thinking. And then, even when I’m tired, it’s so hard to just sleep. It seems like people don’t understand... the SHOULD though so that they can help fight depression alongside those who suffer from it.
It'd be nice if the brain just came with an 'off' switch. Just flip and go to sleep.
These are the people... like me... who've relied upon cheap imported sleeping tablets for more than a decade. Not because I want them, but because without them, I take 2-3 hours to fall asleep and wake up after just 4 hours light rest. I'm not physically dependant upon them but the fear of another awful nights sleep probably makes me psychologically dependant. But every time I forget/run out/try to wean myself off, the same old insomnia rears it's ugly head!
Have you talked to a doctor about prescription medications? Those are better than the OTC stuff.
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I have a large majority of these symptoms (although I've never taken any medication and my immune system is still good). But, at the same time, I've always thought I didn't have depression. I keep convincing myself that I'm just sad. I've always thought you had to have suicidal thoughts to have depression. I have no inclination to kill myself, but I have a lot of these symptoms. Do I have depression or not? I'm so confused.
It is a common misunderstanding, but no- you do not have to be suicidal to be depressed. As people have said, depression comes in many forms, from mild to severe. If you have this sadness that you cannot shake, fatigue and such, I would suggest talking to a professional about it. If nothing else, learning coping mechanisms and such can help you handle it better.
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I experienced severe depression as a teen during a prolonged time because of harsh external factors not worth mentioning here. Anyway, I think I can relate to what she is saying because I remember vividly how I would arrive at home, everyday after school, and would just lie down on the couch or bed, feeling completely exhausted (besides obviously sad) as if I had been severely battered. Every inch of my body physically ached and I could not understand why. I can also relate to the part about the low quality of the sleep, for I have experienced the vivid dreams or the waking up in the middle of the night with loud noises buzzing in my head whenever I went through periods of intense anxiety. It can be so debilitating but mostly a lonely burden for those who suffer it because it is invisible to the outer eye. Therefore, it becomes hard to explain and further alienates you. To think I used to feel so weird when so many other people were surely going through it! None of you are alone.
I have had problems since childhood, I'm 33 and have been with my husband 18 years. The one he always says to me which pisses me off so bad is " why don't you try going to bed earlier " Umm yeah thanks that will surely fix a life time of problems. One thing to remember though when reading a article and it's comments, is that we are really never alone, no matter how low we may sometimes feel, there are people that are going through the same. Thank goodness for the internet where people who need some words of comfort and support can have a platform to reach others that who know what we are going through. Please never be afraid to reach out.
I have depression and anxiety so this explained to my friends how i feel and some people just don't understand
So many people suffers through depression. But still it's so difficult too connect with those ppl even. Rest alone the the other people who have no idea what monsters we deal with. People always think it must be so difficult to fight others. But the real deal, real fight always reside inside you. Ppl do think fighting through it is courageous and all. And you should fight for your life. But when u can see no way out of the all the agony and misery, What then ? Isn't it better to get the eternal peace nd get out of here. This world has nothing to offer, that is worth all that pain and suffering. I never understood why people think death is such a bad thing. I don't say running from your problems is the way to go. U should try with all your might. But u should know when there is no way left nd even if u do "win" the only thing left in your hand is ashes. Death can only give you your "life" back then. That's just what I think .
Good thread...thank you Wish i had seen this sooner, maybe then i would have been able to help someone.. I tried to explain that i understood but they didnt want to hear it.. I told him he needed help that i alone wasn't able to help but he didn't want to go seek medical help... Instead he self medicates and i know that's not working or helping. But he will not see it.
This is the best thing I've seen all year. Some people just don't understand what I and many others seem to be so down all the time. "Just try being happy." It sure as hell ain't that easy, bro.
Oh, heavens, save us all from that "just be happy" garbage! *rolls eyes* Too many people are like that.
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I can't turn off my brain either. If I'm awakened in the night, game over, might as well get up and read. What really grabbed me though, was the part about identifying what's real and what's not. I struggled in my teens to distinguish what info was important and what was just "filler," because to me, every piece of info carries equal weight. 9th grade algebra was torture, because my teacher would go off on unrelated tangents. I'd come out of 1st period mentally exhausted, and the rest of the day became an uphill battle. I had to teach myself how to tell the difference, and still struggle with it sometimes.
I was lucky. I had a teacher that always cut to the chase when it came to math.
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This is so true and spot-on. And I see on the comments that this list is starting to give people like me, like you, like us, a little bit of comfort: we are not alone, we are not weirdos, there's people who, because they're "like us", they understand us and know what it means to be in our shoes.
the other day I said something about having fibromyalgia and what it does. she said.. You don't HAVE to let it bother you... that was also depressing.
I also have fibromyalgia. And I've actually had friends and family tell me that there is no such thing as fibromyalgia. That it is all in my head. The same people also tell me that the depression that I suffer from is also in my head. I should just get over it. Infuriating to say the least! I wish it really was that easy...they should try it sometime.
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I've been fighting my mental 'defects' from the late 70's. I was misdiagnosed for 2 decades. In '11' a wonderful doctor diagnosed me as bipolar. Far from fear or outrage I cried almost happy tears. There was treatment, and hope. There's no magic bullet. I take meds daily, and I still struggle. And I'm always tired. I found that a lot of people think they are better than me, they have no mental disease. I hope for their sake they are right. All it takes to send some into that void, is one trama that pushes you so far that you can't come back. Thank you for speaking for those of us that can't.
Oh god this is soooo true. I have been suffering from bipolar (manic depression) and social anxiety since the age of 16ish now im 37. I use the phrase "emotional energy" alot. Like gathering it up before doing something really draining for me. I also have restless legs syndrome ive had for years (you are ment to get it in your mid 40s... WTF body) you try to sleep and your body does "riverdance" while you sleep and the intense pain it does to your legs.
I have the restless legs too, since forever, and I used to bite my nails as a child (I only managed to stop by switching to just fiddling with my nails with the other fingers, still annoying, but less destructive). I also have bruxism. I find it very hard to just stop and watch a movie unless I'm holding onto a pillow or cushion, because if my hands are free, I must move them.
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This is myself for last two months.always tired and no energy to get up from sofa and bed. No interest in doing anything. Thank God my husband understands me.
I've never been able to explain what I've just read in words. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It helps to learn how to approach others who also suffer similarly.
I'm literally crying. This is all true for me, and I just feel so drained all the time, trying to keep my self together, and my parents didnt, and still don't, accept that I'm just tired of my anxiety and depression, tired of lying awake at night, battling with my demons. Thank you for putting this post up.😏
This does not sound like depression at all. While lack of self esteem and anxiety can be included in depression, this does not sound like that. Just sounds like lack of self esteem and very anxious. Not saying it's not an issue, just stating this doesn't sound like someone who is depress (but it can lead there). But just the way it's worded.
That's because it's not just about depression. It focuses on the constant battle some people go through on a daily basis that may be due to problems that can't be seen. Other mental illnesses like anxiety or invisible medical conditions like Fibromyalgia
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Ver nice post! Thank you! May I use your post to send a message here on mental illness? We are looking for individuals who are willing to participate in a study on mental illness and work. The aim of the study is to better understand the experiences of people with a mental illness in the workplace, so that organisations can better adapt the workplace to their needs. Participation is voluntary and anonymous. If interested, please leave a message and we will contact you or send us a mail to sophiehennekam@yahoo.com Participations consists of a 30 minute interview whenever suits you best. Interviews can be conducted through skype or phone or (if distance allows) at any place most convenient for you. We are researchers working at the University of La Rochelle in France and the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands. The results will be used exclusively for academic publications. Thank you in advance for your collaboration. Sophie Hennekam
Lack of sleep and the associated stress hormones found in depressed patients cause insulin resistance, which is often why long term mental health problems result in people becoming overweight. As well as the battle to get out of the house for a walk, depressed patients are also battling their blood sugars/insulin resistance and a lot of weight sitting around their middle section due to liver dumps.
Oh if my friends even knew how many days it is so hard to get up and function. Sitting here crying again today from anxiety and depression. 5 days ago I had major shoulder surgery. Now all the emotions are kicking in and the physical issues are showing up to such as vomiting, shaking, crying feeling useless and a burden to my sister who is taking care of me. Ended up in ER this morning for vomiting and anxiety. I hate my life right now. There are so many layers of emotions and grief I must work through. I just hope people are patient with me.
i didn't realize it until i read that, that that describes me... and i always that that i was a loser and a read flower in a filed of wight flowers. and that there are so many other people like me that just keep it all to them selves and who cry them selves to sleep just like me. and i just want to tell everyone who is lucky enguph that they don't have this disability and that, pleas do look inbetween the lines of your friends and do care because that is how i feel. all i need is for people to show that they acsept me and love me. because that swhat we need. we hurt all we may need is love. <3<3
what do you mean by understand ? war ith others ppl judment and lack understanding?
Fantastic and right on the money. I identify with every one of those thoughts posted. Thank you for helping to make sense of it all!!!
So I've been in depression most of my life. "I'm tired" is my middle name.
It is not a coincidence or by chance that I came across your article abt depression. I've been looking for any explanation everywhere; from my family Doctor, referrals, psychiatrists, hospitals, youth program, nurses, mental health advocates, counsellors and more to mention and haven't heard any clearer and precise description and explanation of what I have read in your page. Thank you so much! After reading this, I got enlightened and understood more of my family member's situation and what exactly is he getting through. It came to the point that I raised my voice to make him speak up and explain me further what is his mind and his plan and what he really want to do because he does not tell me anything. I cannot figure out or guess what is in his mind since he just confined himself in a 4 wall and just face his gadget on his own time. Zero social life and etc. Now, I understand him more. Need to talk more abt this.
reading this is what mi has been saying the therapists for years, mi can relate to all of it....mi gets told to cheer up a lot to mi that’s the same as telling a blind person to look where they going.....mental illness is just not that simple xx
You know you have depression when you get 1/4 of the way down the list, relating, but give up reading because what’s it matter...
That's me in a tee. If any doctors could contact me, me email: gregsoul180@hotmail.com
I walk around everyday feeling close to exactly like what you've explained. When I get up, I know there is so much I need to do and could do because I was just thinking about it yesterday at work. But, I can't ever remember what all those things were. All that remains is the nagging anxiety reminding that there are specific things I need to be doing but can't remember due to a fuzzy barrier keeping it just out of my thought's reach. The only way that I am able to tune it out is to binge watch Netflix or have a favorite movie marathon. Then I hate myself for not accomplishing anything. Vicious cycle! Thank you for putting my struggle and that of so many others in words that others unlike us can understand.
Write it down. Get it out of your brain. You don't have to hold on to it. Then you can see if it's something you really need to / want to do, or b******t that is weighing you down. It's hard to develop the habit (I struggle constantly with it) but it's better to try than not.
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With 3 out of 5 siblings with mental illness twin bi polar brother schizophrenic older sister several bi polar with alcoholism its sad to watch from afar and having no family left. They system is f-ed up. I have issues don't want to leave the house unless absolutely necessary. Just working and taking care of the house I live in. No fun in between. It's kind of like if my family were better I could enjoy my life. But they aren't so I can't. Sad cycle :(
Wow! I really relate to your post. I'm a prisoner in my own home and I'm the warden. I suffer with Social Anxiety. I don't really leave the house unless I have to (ie: grocery shopping, dr. appts, work). I also have OCD so when I am in the house I am constantly cleaning it. People will invite me to do something, and a part of me really wants to do it, but I usually make up some excuse why I can't. The few times I have forced myself to go out and do something fun, I do have fun. But then I don't do it again. Almost like I feel like I don't deserve to be happy. It truly is a very sad ongoing cycle.
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Simply beautiful- thank you so much for voicing what so many of us feel. Trying to use meds just to make it through a night without waking up...your mind racing with all the things you did, should have done, or need to do. People not understanding that you may have only slept an hour and that “being tired” is nothing. Migraines and depression so bad you don’t want to leave the bed. People not seeing what’s wrong because mental illness isn’t visible. Thank you so much for being a voice for the invisible.
one time I was watching tv and it showed a cemetery..just headstones... the first thought that popped in my head was "they are so lucky".
I have the sleep stuff happen all the time. It may not help you, but I've found that having something play in the background helps. Don't use music. Use something that is kind of mono tone. Like a documentary or an audio book. I feel that having something else to listen to allows your brain to kind of zone out and allow you to relax. It works for me not gonna say it works for everybody
This is exactly the same for people with anxiety and adhd ect..
This is a wonderful collection of descriptions and feelings -- and I join you in most of them! But what made you put it in about 20 short bites with your photo on each one and such large print. I want to save a copy of it in my Mental Health file, but I don`t want it to take up about 10 pages! That said, I really hope you get some good days a lot of times - I know I do! I`m just beginning to understand some of where it might come from now.
Thank you for putting into words exactly how I feel all day every day and how hard I find it to communicate this to others...Thank you from the bottom of my heart
I have an autoimmune disease where all these things are common and more. Usually depression is not one of the things I fight. I often fight those who would call my disease possibly depression. A doctors suggestion to see a phsyc is my worst nightmare. Please put in your article that this not the only disease with these symptoms.
Thanks for giving a voice to my emotions..I could have never express it better.
A tip about noise that keeps you awake: a white noise app exists, along with wireless earphones, too. Regular earphones work fine as well. As for the other things that keep a depressed person struggle with sleep— I have no words. A very thorough explanation, nonetheless.
So many of the comments I can relate to. And being raised in a family where people refused to admit any form of mental illness existed didn't help matters.
Having suffered from major depressive disorder, anxiety, and chronic pain conditions for most of my adult life, the hardest thing for me to reconcile is the constant exhaustion. It's frustrating enough on its own, but then compounded by others who label me lazy or worse, selfish ("you'd rather sleep than spend time with me" or "we never go out and have fun") makes it that much harder to bear. I've learned to cope with crippling depression and my pain-riddled body attacking me, but being too tired to even clean or feed myself makes me sometimes wonder why I bother. I appreciate this post.
Looking into the eyes of a good friend and saying "I'm fine", when all you want, all you need, everything you desire is a hug.... but you would never impose.
I think this written in a way that anyone can understand, which is really cool for people like me that don't know what is happening to people with mental illnesses, but still want to help them in anyway that we can. I think this is really inspiring, and it helps spread the word about mental illnesses so people are more aware and can help more.
I’m being treated for depression & I’m always tired. I don’t have an OFF button & lie awake at night mulling over the day & what needs to be done tomorrow. What really hurts is when family make comments like “go to bed earlier and you won’t be tired” or “ What have you got to be depressed about?” It’s not fun when you get 3-4 hrs sleep then are expected to function like a “normal “ person. Many times I wish I could be entirely alone so I don’t have to put on an act all the time, like I’m fine. That’s tiring in itself
OK. This very well might be a life changing article. But reading it in 20 micro posts, doesn't work. ESPECIALLY when you already are bipolar and have trouble focusing and maintaining concentration...
This is my life everyday......i did not know it was depression! I just thought i was broken!
ALL OF THESE! I' been dealing with this for 20+ years. It wasn't until almost 2 years ago I realized how toxiç my mother was. I've been seeing a counselor for 9 months and I am finally able to make it to the grocery store after our weekly appt. I can't leave the house lon Sat and Sun even if I'm out of food.
I live in a country where ppl do not understand and isolate those with such problems, we usually are isolated and shamed for exactly the reasons stated above (lazy, stupid, inadequate, undisciplined)... such behaviour is imposed upon us by our parents and peers, and often enought by our parents peers upon our parents stating that they did not do a good parenting job... in our country the density of intolerance is unbelivable... we are percieved as demented if we seek psychological treatament and help... for estern europeans it is unacceptable to be other than a simple robot and "normal" citizen... for me, animals are the only souls that i can relate to, and in my lucky case, my significant other wich is the same as me, and we came together because we understand and respect each other... I pray and hope the best for every soul tortured by anwiety and depresion... stay strong!!!
Sometimes I need up to 3 hours to fall asleep. And used to wake up 4 or 5 times during the night. Since I brought my dog over (I'm studying in the UK), I find that while falling asleep is still hard, at least I don't wake up during the night.
Word of advice: giving advice to strangers on what they should do for their mental illness is an excellent way to P**s Them Off. Whatever it is, they've heard it before. Dozens or hundreds of times, and always from people like you, who don't know a single thing about them and/or their history. LSD and 'shrooms are Totally Illegal in the United States, so I'm pretty sure you're under the influence of at least one of those, recommending their use like it's no big deal. If meditation, stretching, and traveling to commune with nature keeps your frown turned upside down, fabulous for you. Those of us whose issues are caused by imbalances in our brain chemistry, psychotropic medication that helps to correct the imbalance can be an extremely important tool in managing our mental illness.
Load More Replies... All people with mental illness want is understanding and sympathy. We absolutely do not want pity. The only people who are "pains in the a*s" are people who are rude and insulting for no reason.
Load More Replies... The part about the cat... I have social anxiety and I never know how to explain what it's like, but that's pretty much exactly it. I have very low empathy levels and can't at all tell how people are really feeling from external cues, so even when I do mange to talk to them, I'm constantly afraid they're just trying to not be d***s but can't wait for me to go away. My dream is a honest society, where telling people what you really think to their faces is the polite thing to do... because them I could stop worrying so much if I'm actually being liked or just being put up with. The fact that I know they actually mean well is what hurts the most.
I so share your desire where being honest to people is normal and polite. I cannot "read between the lines" and I'm constantly trying to figure out if someone REALLY means what they said or are lying (to be polite or malicious) It's exhausting and has made me withdraw and avoid people.
Load More Replies... Feel a bit better after seeing someone explaining the things I find so hard to communicate clearly.
Yeah this explains it so well... I stay awake for up to... about 5 hours I guess just thinking. And then, even when I’m tired, it’s so hard to just sleep. It seems like people don’t understand... the SHOULD though so that they can help fight depression alongside those who suffer from it.
It'd be nice if the brain just came with an 'off' switch. Just flip and go to sleep.
These are the people... like me... who've relied upon cheap imported sleeping tablets for more than a decade. Not because I want them, but because without them, I take 2-3 hours to fall asleep and wake up after just 4 hours light rest. I'm not physically dependant upon them but the fear of another awful nights sleep probably makes me psychologically dependant. But every time I forget/run out/try to wean myself off, the same old insomnia rears it's ugly head!
Have you talked to a doctor about prescription medications? Those are better than the OTC stuff.
Load More Replies... I have a large majority of these symptoms (although I've never taken any medication and my immune system is still good). But, at the same time, I've always thought I didn't have depression. I keep convincing myself that I'm just sad. I've always thought you had to have suicidal thoughts to have depression. I have no inclination to kill myself, but I have a lot of these symptoms. Do I have depression or not? I'm so confused.
It is a common misunderstanding, but no- you do not have to be suicidal to be depressed. As people have said, depression comes in many forms, from mild to severe. If you have this sadness that you cannot shake, fatigue and such, I would suggest talking to a professional about it. If nothing else, learning coping mechanisms and such can help you handle it better.
Load More Replies... I experienced severe depression as a teen during a prolonged time because of harsh external factors not worth mentioning here. Anyway, I think I can relate to what she is saying because I remember vividly how I would arrive at home, everyday after school, and would just lie down on the couch or bed, feeling completely exhausted (besides obviously sad) as if I had been severely battered. Every inch of my body physically ached and I could not understand why. I can also relate to the part about the low quality of the sleep, for I have experienced the vivid dreams or the waking up in the middle of the night with loud noises buzzing in my head whenever I went through periods of intense anxiety. It can be so debilitating but mostly a lonely burden for those who suffer it because it is invisible to the outer eye. Therefore, it becomes hard to explain and further alienates you. To think I used to feel so weird when so many other people were surely going through it! None of you are alone.
I have had problems since childhood, I'm 33 and have been with my husband 18 years. The one he always says to me which pisses me off so bad is " why don't you try going to bed earlier " Umm yeah thanks that will surely fix a life time of problems. One thing to remember though when reading a article and it's comments, is that we are really never alone, no matter how low we may sometimes feel, there are people that are going through the same. Thank goodness for the internet where people who need some words of comfort and support can have a platform to reach others that who know what we are going through. Please never be afraid to reach out.
I have depression and anxiety so this explained to my friends how i feel and some people just don't understand
So many people suffers through depression. But still it's so difficult too connect with those ppl even. Rest alone the the other people who have no idea what monsters we deal with. People always think it must be so difficult to fight others. But the real deal, real fight always reside inside you. Ppl do think fighting through it is courageous and all. And you should fight for your life. But when u can see no way out of the all the agony and misery, What then ? Isn't it better to get the eternal peace nd get out of here. This world has nothing to offer, that is worth all that pain and suffering. I never understood why people think death is such a bad thing. I don't say running from your problems is the way to go. U should try with all your might. But u should know when there is no way left nd even if u do "win" the only thing left in your hand is ashes. Death can only give you your "life" back then. That's just what I think .
Good thread...thank you Wish i had seen this sooner, maybe then i would have been able to help someone.. I tried to explain that i understood but they didnt want to hear it.. I told him he needed help that i alone wasn't able to help but he didn't want to go seek medical help... Instead he self medicates and i know that's not working or helping. But he will not see it.
This is the best thing I've seen all year. Some people just don't understand what I and many others seem to be so down all the time. "Just try being happy." It sure as hell ain't that easy, bro.
Oh, heavens, save us all from that "just be happy" garbage! *rolls eyes* Too many people are like that.
Load More Replies... I can't turn off my brain either. If I'm awakened in the night, game over, might as well get up and read. What really grabbed me though, was the part about identifying what's real and what's not. I struggled in my teens to distinguish what info was important and what was just "filler," because to me, every piece of info carries equal weight. 9th grade algebra was torture, because my teacher would go off on unrelated tangents. I'd come out of 1st period mentally exhausted, and the rest of the day became an uphill battle. I had to teach myself how to tell the difference, and still struggle with it sometimes.
I was lucky. I had a teacher that always cut to the chase when it came to math.
Load More Replies... This is so true and spot-on. And I see on the comments that this list is starting to give people like me, like you, like us, a little bit of comfort: we are not alone, we are not weirdos, there's people who, because they're "like us", they understand us and know what it means to be in our shoes.
the other day I said something about having fibromyalgia and what it does. she said.. You don't HAVE to let it bother you... that was also depressing.
I also have fibromyalgia. And I've actually had friends and family tell me that there is no such thing as fibromyalgia. That it is all in my head. The same people also tell me that the depression that I suffer from is also in my head. I should just get over it. Infuriating to say the least! I wish it really was that easy...they should try it sometime.
Load More Replies... I've been fighting my mental 'defects' from the late 70's. I was misdiagnosed for 2 decades. In '11' a wonderful doctor diagnosed me as bipolar. Far from fear or outrage I cried almost happy tears. There was treatment, and hope. There's no magic bullet. I take meds daily, and I still struggle. And I'm always tired. I found that a lot of people think they are better than me, they have no mental disease. I hope for their sake they are right. All it takes to send some into that void, is one trama that pushes you so far that you can't come back. Thank you for speaking for those of us that can't.
Oh god this is soooo true. I have been suffering from bipolar (manic depression) and social anxiety since the age of 16ish now im 37. I use the phrase "emotional energy" alot. Like gathering it up before doing something really draining for me. I also have restless legs syndrome ive had for years (you are ment to get it in your mid 40s... WTF body) you try to sleep and your body does "riverdance" while you sleep and the intense pain it does to your legs.
I have the restless legs too, since forever, and I used to bite my nails as a child (I only managed to stop by switching to just fiddling with my nails with the other fingers, still annoying, but less destructive). I also have bruxism. I find it very hard to just stop and watch a movie unless I'm holding onto a pillow or cushion, because if my hands are free, I must move them.
Load More Replies... This is myself for last two months.always tired and no energy to get up from sofa and bed. No interest in doing anything. Thank God my husband understands me.
I've never been able to explain what I've just read in words. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It helps to learn how to approach others who also suffer similarly.
I'm literally crying. This is all true for me, and I just feel so drained all the time, trying to keep my self together, and my parents didnt, and still don't, accept that I'm just tired of my anxiety and depression, tired of lying awake at night, battling with my demons. Thank you for putting this post up.😏
This does not sound like depression at all. While lack of self esteem and anxiety can be included in depression, this does not sound like that. Just sounds like lack of self esteem and very anxious. Not saying it's not an issue, just stating this doesn't sound like someone who is depress (but it can lead there). But just the way it's worded.
That's because it's not just about depression. It focuses on the constant battle some people go through on a daily basis that may be due to problems that can't be seen. Other mental illnesses like anxiety or invisible medical conditions like Fibromyalgia
Load More Replies... Ver nice post! Thank you! May I use your post to send a message here on mental illness? We are looking for individuals who are willing to participate in a study on mental illness and work. The aim of the study is to better understand the experiences of people with a mental illness in the workplace, so that organisations can better adapt the workplace to their needs. Participation is voluntary and anonymous. If interested, please leave a message and we will contact you or send us a mail to sophiehennekam@yahoo.com Participations consists of a 30 minute interview whenever suits you best. Interviews can be conducted through skype or phone or (if distance allows) at any place most convenient for you. We are researchers working at the University of La Rochelle in France and the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands. The results will be used exclusively for academic publications. Thank you in advance for your collaboration. Sophie Hennekam
Lack of sleep and the associated stress hormones found in depressed patients cause insulin resistance, which is often why long term mental health problems result in people becoming overweight. As well as the battle to get out of the house for a walk, depressed patients are also battling their blood sugars/insulin resistance and a lot of weight sitting around their middle section due to liver dumps.
Oh if my friends even knew how many days it is so hard to get up and function. Sitting here crying again today from anxiety and depression. 5 days ago I had major shoulder surgery. Now all the emotions are kicking in and the physical issues are showing up to such as vomiting, shaking, crying feeling useless and a burden to my sister who is taking care of me. Ended up in ER this morning for vomiting and anxiety. I hate my life right now. There are so many layers of emotions and grief I must work through. I just hope people are patient with me.
i didn't realize it until i read that, that that describes me... and i always that that i was a loser and a read flower in a filed of wight flowers. and that there are so many other people like me that just keep it all to them selves and who cry them selves to sleep just like me. and i just want to tell everyone who is lucky enguph that they don't have this disability and that, pleas do look inbetween the lines of your friends and do care because that is how i feel. all i need is for people to show that they acsept me and love me. because that swhat we need. we hurt all we may need is love. <3<3
what do you mean by understand ? war ith others ppl judment and lack understanding?
Fantastic and right on the money. I identify with every one of those thoughts posted. Thank you for helping to make sense of it all!!!
So I've been in depression most of my life. "I'm tired" is my middle name.
It is not a coincidence or by chance that I came across your article abt depression. I've been looking for any explanation everywhere; from my family Doctor, referrals, psychiatrists, hospitals, youth program, nurses, mental health advocates, counsellors and more to mention and haven't heard any clearer and precise description and explanation of what I have read in your page. Thank you so much! After reading this, I got enlightened and understood more of my family member's situation and what exactly is he getting through. It came to the point that I raised my voice to make him speak up and explain me further what is his mind and his plan and what he really want to do because he does not tell me anything. I cannot figure out or guess what is in his mind since he just confined himself in a 4 wall and just face his gadget on his own time. Zero social life and etc. Now, I understand him more. Need to talk more abt this.
reading this is what mi has been saying the therapists for years, mi can relate to all of it....mi gets told to cheer up a lot to mi that’s the same as telling a blind person to look where they going.....mental illness is just not that simple xx
You know you have depression when you get 1/4 of the way down the list, relating, but give up reading because what’s it matter...
That's me in a tee. If any doctors could contact me, me email: gregsoul180@hotmail.com
I walk around everyday feeling close to exactly like what you've explained. When I get up, I know there is so much I need to do and could do because I was just thinking about it yesterday at work. But, I can't ever remember what all those things were. All that remains is the nagging anxiety reminding that there are specific things I need to be doing but can't remember due to a fuzzy barrier keeping it just out of my thought's reach. The only way that I am able to tune it out is to binge watch Netflix or have a favorite movie marathon. Then I hate myself for not accomplishing anything. Vicious cycle! Thank you for putting my struggle and that of so many others in words that others unlike us can understand.
Write it down. Get it out of your brain. You don't have to hold on to it. Then you can see if it's something you really need to / want to do, or b******t that is weighing you down. It's hard to develop the habit (I struggle constantly with it) but it's better to try than not.
Load More Replies... With 3 out of 5 siblings with mental illness twin bi polar brother schizophrenic older sister several bi polar with alcoholism its sad to watch from afar and having no family left. They system is f-ed up. I have issues don't want to leave the house unless absolutely necessary. Just working and taking care of the house I live in. No fun in between. It's kind of like if my family were better I could enjoy my life. But they aren't so I can't. Sad cycle :(
Wow! I really relate to your post. I'm a prisoner in my own home and I'm the warden. I suffer with Social Anxiety. I don't really leave the house unless I have to (ie: grocery shopping, dr. appts, work). I also have OCD so when I am in the house I am constantly cleaning it. People will invite me to do something, and a part of me really wants to do it, but I usually make up some excuse why I can't. The few times I have forced myself to go out and do something fun, I do have fun. But then I don't do it again. Almost like I feel like I don't deserve to be happy. It truly is a very sad ongoing cycle.
Load More Replies... Simply beautiful- thank you so much for voicing what so many of us feel. Trying to use meds just to make it through a night without waking up...your mind racing with all the things you did, should have done, or need to do. People not understanding that you may have only slept an hour and that “being tired” is nothing. Migraines and depression so bad you don’t want to leave the bed. People not seeing what’s wrong because mental illness isn’t visible. Thank you so much for being a voice for the invisible.
one time I was watching tv and it showed a cemetery..just headstones... the first thought that popped in my head was "they are so lucky".
I have the sleep stuff happen all the time. It may not help you, but I've found that having something play in the background helps. Don't use music. Use something that is kind of mono tone. Like a documentary or an audio book. I feel that having something else to listen to allows your brain to kind of zone out and allow you to relax. It works for me not gonna say it works for everybody
This is exactly the same for people with anxiety and adhd ect..
This is a wonderful collection of descriptions and feelings -- and I join you in most of them! But what made you put it in about 20 short bites with your photo on each one and such large print. I want to save a copy of it in my Mental Health file, but I don`t want it to take up about 10 pages! That said, I really hope you get some good days a lot of times - I know I do! I`m just beginning to understand some of where it might come from now.
Thank you for putting into words exactly how I feel all day every day and how hard I find it to communicate this to others...Thank you from the bottom of my heart
I have an autoimmune disease where all these things are common and more. Usually depression is not one of the things I fight. I often fight those who would call my disease possibly depression. A doctors suggestion to see a phsyc is my worst nightmare. Please put in your article that this not the only disease with these symptoms.
Thanks for giving a voice to my emotions..I could have never express it better.
A tip about noise that keeps you awake: a white noise app exists, along with wireless earphones, too. Regular earphones work fine as well. As for the other things that keep a depressed person struggle with sleep— I have no words. A very thorough explanation, nonetheless.
So many of the comments I can relate to. And being raised in a family where people refused to admit any form of mental illness existed didn't help matters.
Having suffered from major depressive disorder, anxiety, and chronic pain conditions for most of my adult life, the hardest thing for me to reconcile is the constant exhaustion. It's frustrating enough on its own, but then compounded by others who label me lazy or worse, selfish ("you'd rather sleep than spend time with me" or "we never go out and have fun") makes it that much harder to bear. I've learned to cope with crippling depression and my pain-riddled body attacking me, but being too tired to even clean or feed myself makes me sometimes wonder why I bother. I appreciate this post.
Looking into the eyes of a good friend and saying "I'm fine", when all you want, all you need, everything you desire is a hug.... but you would never impose.
I think this written in a way that anyone can understand, which is really cool for people like me that don't know what is happening to people with mental illnesses, but still want to help them in anyway that we can. I think this is really inspiring, and it helps spread the word about mental illnesses so people are more aware and can help more.
I’m being treated for depression & I’m always tired. I don’t have an OFF button & lie awake at night mulling over the day & what needs to be done tomorrow. What really hurts is when family make comments like “go to bed earlier and you won’t be tired” or “ What have you got to be depressed about?” It’s not fun when you get 3-4 hrs sleep then are expected to function like a “normal “ person. Many times I wish I could be entirely alone so I don’t have to put on an act all the time, like I’m fine. That’s tiring in itself
OK. This very well might be a life changing article. But reading it in 20 micro posts, doesn't work. ESPECIALLY when you already are bipolar and have trouble focusing and maintaining concentration...
This is my life everyday......i did not know it was depression! I just thought i was broken!
ALL OF THESE! I' been dealing with this for 20+ years. It wasn't until almost 2 years ago I realized how toxiç my mother was. I've been seeing a counselor for 9 months and I am finally able to make it to the grocery store after our weekly appt. I can't leave the house lon Sat and Sun even if I'm out of food.
I live in a country where ppl do not understand and isolate those with such problems, we usually are isolated and shamed for exactly the reasons stated above (lazy, stupid, inadequate, undisciplined)... such behaviour is imposed upon us by our parents and peers, and often enought by our parents peers upon our parents stating that they did not do a good parenting job... in our country the density of intolerance is unbelivable... we are percieved as demented if we seek psychological treatament and help... for estern europeans it is unacceptable to be other than a simple robot and "normal" citizen... for me, animals are the only souls that i can relate to, and in my lucky case, my significant other wich is the same as me, and we came together because we understand and respect each other... I pray and hope the best for every soul tortured by anwiety and depresion... stay strong!!!
Sometimes I need up to 3 hours to fall asleep. And used to wake up 4 or 5 times during the night. Since I brought my dog over (I'm studying in the UK), I find that while falling asleep is still hard, at least I don't wake up during the night.
Word of advice: giving advice to strangers on what they should do for their mental illness is an excellent way to P**s Them Off. Whatever it is, they've heard it before. Dozens or hundreds of times, and always from people like you, who don't know a single thing about them and/or their history. LSD and 'shrooms are Totally Illegal in the United States, so I'm pretty sure you're under the influence of at least one of those, recommending their use like it's no big deal. If meditation, stretching, and traveling to commune with nature keeps your frown turned upside down, fabulous for you. Those of us whose issues are caused by imbalances in our brain chemistry, psychotropic medication that helps to correct the imbalance can be an extremely important tool in managing our mental illness.
Load More Replies... All people with mental illness want is understanding and sympathy. We absolutely do not want pity. The only people who are "pains in the a*s" are people who are rude and insulting for no reason.
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