Depression is a hidden demon that many people battle all around the world. Sometimes people can fight this demon into submission. Other times that demon wins and people lose the fight.
There are ways to help combat depression like therapy, medication, and coping skills. Depression is not something that can disappear overnight. It takes time days, weeks, or even years. This demon can be overcome and placed into “remission.”
Invisible Demon Rears Its Head
This doesn’t mean it won’t rear its ugly head from time to time. It just means the person will need to continue battling the invisible demon for the rest of their life.
Having a support system – people one can talk to or even a therapist – is always recommended. Being able to express how one is feeling can help elevate the deep dark feelings bubbling up inside. In fact, having a healthy outlet can help people express their pain.
Some people turn to unhealthy habits that can create all new hidden demons. For example, people will turn to drugs and alcohol to “treat” or suppress their sad feelings.
Self Medicating
Self-treating can cause addiction and worsened depression. Furthermore, it doesn’t dampen the depression it either suppresses it or makes it worse. Then after a time, people become dependent on these substances creating new demons.
Addiction is a serious illness – as is depression. It is a demon that can also lead to a person’s early demise. There are counselors and rehabilitation centers that can help people overcome their battles with their addiction demons.
Constant Battle
Seeking out professional help, taking proper medication, and using healthy outlets for depression are necessary steps one must take. This invisible demon can suck the life out of a person if it is allowed to do so.
It is important to remind oneself of the positivity in the world each and every day – even when it seems bleak. Dwelling on the negativity that is beating one down allows depression to win. Focusing on positivity, even the smallest thing, can help people change their perspective on the world. For instance, reminding oneself the sun shines, flowers bloom, or even the rainbow that appears after the storm are types of positivity in the world.
Depression Affects Millions
It is important to remember one is not alone in their depressed feelings. Millions of people around the world battle the depression demon. In the United States alone there were 52.9 million adult individuals who experienced a mental health condition in 2021.
The COVID-19 pandemic increased the number of anxiety and depressive disorders worldwide. Depression symptoms grew from 193 million to 246 million. Additionally, those who experience anxiety grew from 298 million to 374 million.
Depression does not discriminate. Meaning this invisible demon affect people of all ages, sizes, and race.
There are so many factors that can add to or can create depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse. Not to mention the mental health issues that are genetic.
Don’t Let the Invisible Demon Win
Don’t let depression win. Battling with the invisible demon is not only difficult at times but it is also exhausting. It can make people feel like they have been run over, beaten mercilessly, and like giving up.
With that in mind, it is best to remember that suicide is not the answer. The thought may be extremely tempting like having that slice of cake before mealtime. However, it is not the answer to the answer. It’s a permanent solution to a possible temporary feeling.
If anyone is feeling like they just can’t handle their inner demons alone they can reach out to a friend, doctor, or therapist. People can also call 988 and speak to someone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
Family Doctor: Depression | Coping With Suicidal Thoughts
Forbes: Mental Health Statistics
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of Nils Werner‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Drew Herron‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
