It can be tough for anyone to grasp what life is like for someone grappling with depression, and honestly, even those experiencing it can struggle to understand their own feelings. However, an eye-opening video titled “A Day in the Life With Depression,” created by actor Sam Carter, aims to shed light on the reality of living with this mental health challenge in an effort to combat stigma.
Earlier this year, Carter became a vocal advocate for mental well-being after responding to a hurtful online meme about his appearance. In a Facebook post that garnered nearly 300,000 shares, he shared, “I’ve battled with depression since I was a kid… Like a dandelion breaking through the concrete, I keep going.”
Carter exemplifies just one of the many faces of depression and mental illness. The truth is that mental health issues touch all of us in some capacity. In the U.S. alone, around 15 million people are affected by depression each year, and Postpartum Progression reports that 11 to 20% of new mothers experience postpartum depression. Like any health condition, mental illness manifests differently in each person and can vary widely in severity. In extreme cases, it can lead to tragic outcomes; the Anxiety and Depression Association notes that more than half of American adults have been impacted by suicidal thoughts in some way. I know I have, and you probably have too.
As we observe World Suicide Prevention Day, the International Association for Suicide Prevention encourages everyone to show their support by lighting candles, sharing awareness online, participating in events, and reaching out to those in distress. Given that more individuals die from suicide than car accidents, it’s crucial that we address this pressing issue.
Even though most suicides are preventable, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, many at-risk individuals don’t seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental health, inadequate access to care, or a lack of knowledge about the signs of depression and anxiety. Despite its widespread nature, mental illness remains the proverbial elephant in the room—one that everyone avoids discussing while it stomps around wreaking havoc.
Describing and understanding mental illness can be challenging—not just for others but for those who experience it firsthand. This is why Carter’s viral video is so significant. After the birth of my first child, I was engulfed by feelings of hollowness. I couldn’t articulate what I was experiencing, except to say that life had lost its vibrancy and everything felt meaningless. On paper, everything was perfect: I had a loving partner, a beautiful baby, supportive friends, and family. Yet, happiness eluded me, leaving me confused and isolated. It wasn’t until my second child arrived, free from that dark emptiness, that I truly recognized how fortunate I was to have survived the beast of depression.
There is a harmful double standard when it comes to our mental and physical health, and it needs to change. If someone suffers from arthritis, we don’t judge them for taking medications or undergoing therapy. If a person has diabetes, we don’t shy away when they discuss their insulin. So why is it awkward to talk about the Zoloft or Lexapro sitting in our medicine cabinet or the weekly therapy sessions we attend?
We should never feel ashamed for prioritizing our health and happiness. After all, taking care of ourselves enables us to support one another. If you or someone you care about is facing depression or anxiety, you can find a therapist or support group through resources like the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. For those who need immediate assistance, check out Hopkins Medicine for excellent information on mental health and wellness.
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In summary, understanding mental illness is crucial for fostering compassion and support. By engaging in open conversations and sharing resources, we can help break down the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.