Think before we speak.

I apologise to those of you who like to read my blog for a giggle. No giggles available today, sorry.

I have been a bit low this week (or so) though nothing for any of you to be worried about. I've had these blips before and I'll come out the other end. But it made me think about what people say to me, or others, that's really not helpful (see left).

Disclaimer - I understand that if you don't have first hand experience of depression you maybe don't know what to say, (and I hope) you think you're just being nice. I endeavour for this to be a little insightful for you. And I'm certainly not pointing fingers at anyone specifically. This is just a general post.

1. You have nothing to be depressed about.
This is not helpful because a) we probably already know this, thank you very much. And b) depression does not work like this!

2. You don't look depressed?
Whilst some illnesses are very visible, do not be fooled. Most depressants are very skilled at hiding how they feel.

3. Some people have it much worse.
Yes they do. I have three very good friends who are going through a very tough and challenging time at the moment, that pales to my issues. If I told you you wouldn't believe me. Even the writers of Eastenders who think the story line was too far fetched! But even so, you can't recover from depression because others are worse off. Nope, this just won't work!

4. You just need to exercise.
Yes this definitely helps but you try exercising when you just want to hide under the duvet! And for some it comes hand in hand with anxiety so even leaving the house for a walk can feel impossible.

5. Stop feeling sorry for yourself/pull yourself together.
This person just needs to be slapped - hard.

6. It's all in the mind.
That's the bloody point. My mind is not working properly at the moment. It's not well. That's why it's called a mental illness, idiot!

7. Medication will just make it worse.
This can be true. You can feel much worse in the first few weeks but then things can improve. Sometimes you need to try different types of medication, there's not one to fix all. I just wish people wouldn't be afraid to take medication. Like my doctor told me, if I was having a heart attack I would take the pill. There shouldn't be a stigma to anti-depressants. They really can help you. And they are non addictive.

8. My friend had depression and she cried all the time, so why aren't you then?
Depression is different for everyone. Some can't sleep, some sleep all day. Some can't eat and others eat everything they can etc.

My blog was not planned to be this. I've even had to change the title. I just started typing and this is what we've got. Next week I can write what I thought I would this week.

Now I suppose I should mention my weight. After all, this is why you are here. I have actually lost 2 lbs. Not entirely sure how (see no. 8 - I'm an eater!).

After years of therapy, Wally finally found himself.

If I have done something this week to upset you, or that you found out of character or odd please forgive me. My mind does not compute properly when I'm feeling like this. Thank you xx