Kristen Roberts, often recognized for her vibrant and cheerful demeanor, reminds us that even those who seem to shine brightest can struggle with mental health issues. Recently, Roberts bravely opened up about her experiences with anxiety and depression in a heartfelt essay that emphasizes there’s no shame in facing these challenges.
In her piece on Motto, Roberts reflects on how her mother first introduced her to the concept of depression, encouraging her to seek help if she ever felt overwhelmed by a “dark cloud.” “You can always talk to me, see a therapist, or consult a doctor. There are options out there,” her mother advised. Roberts expresses gratitude for her mother’s candidness on such a typically hushed topic, which proved invaluable during her college years when she faced her own battles with depression at NYU. Despite feeling there was “no logical reason” for her emotions, she sought help, but it took her almost 15 years to speak publicly about her struggles.
What Prompted This Shift?
Roberts wishes to demystify what depression truly looks like and insists it deserves the same seriousness as any physical illness. “For me, depression isn’t just sadness,” she writes. “It’s a profound sense of isolation and hopelessness. It left me feeling utterly worthless and as if I had nothing to contribute.”
Roberts resonates with many who have faced similar feelings, sharing that before she understood depression, she believed it merely meant being sad or wearing sweatpants. She didn’t realize that the real indicators were feelings of loneliness and inadequacy. “Mental health check-ups should be as routine as visiting a doctor or dentist,” she argues. “If you tell a friend you’re sick, they’ll likely suggest seeing a doctor. But when you mention feeling depressed, there’s often hesitation. I’m done with that.”
The Importance of Open Discussion
Discussing depression can be daunting, as it often convinces individuals that their struggles go unnoticed or misunderstood. Yet, by openly sharing our experiences, we empower others to seek help and foster a better understanding of the condition. Silent suffering doesn’t lead to healing; conversely, it can prolong the pain. Roberts aptly notes, “There’s nothing weak about dealing with mental illness. It just means you’re having a tougher time navigating your thoughts than others. Starting a conversation about your feelings is the first step toward healing.”
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In summary, Kristen Roberts’ essay serves as a powerful reminder that mental health struggles are common and should be openly discussed. Her journey from silence to advocacy highlights the importance of seeking help and breaking down the stigma surrounding depression.