Kristina Lane, celebrated for her infectious charm, is a reminder that even those who seem perpetually joyful can face the challenges of mental health. Recently, Lane took to the platform to share her personal battle with anxiety and depression, and her latest essay delves deeper into this subject, urging us to recognize that there’s no shame in experiencing depression.
In her thought-provoking piece on Motto, Lane recounts how her mother first introduced her to the concept of depression, emphasizing the importance of seeking help when feeling engulfed by darkness. “You can always confide in me, consult a therapist, or reach out to a doctor. There are options available,” her mother advised her. Lane expresses gratitude for her mother’s candidness on such a typically taboo topic, which became crucial during her college years when she faced these feelings herself.
While studying at NYU, Lane experienced bouts of depression, even in the absence of any discernible cause. Guided by her mother’s nurturing words, she sought help, but it wasn’t until almost 15 years later that she felt ready to speak out publicly about her struggles. What prompted this shift? Lane wishes to shed light on what depression truly entails, advocating for it to be regarded with the same seriousness as any physical ailment.
“Depression, to me, isn’t merely sadness,” Lane asserts. “It goes beyond having a rough day or needing comfort. It enveloped me in isolation and despair, rendering me unable to function. I felt worthless and like a burden.”
Lane’s experience resonates with many who have battled similar feelings. Before she understood depression’s true nature, she mistakenly believed it was simply feeling sad and wearing sweatpants. This misconception kept her from seeking help sooner. “Routine mental health check-ins should be as normal as visiting the doctor or dentist,” she emphasizes. “If you tell a friend you’re ill, they’ll likely suggest seeing a doctor. Yet, when you share feelings of depression, the response is often fear or reluctance. I’m done with that.”
Discussing depression can be daunting, as the condition can convince individuals that no one cares or can relate to their pain. However, by openly sharing our experiences, we empower others to seek help and foster a deeper understanding of what depression truly feels like. Suffering in silence won’t alleviate the struggle, nor will it lead to recovery. To truly heal, we must keep the conversation alive. As Lane passionately states, “Struggling with mental illness isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s just a more difficult journey in your mind than what others may face. Talking about your feelings is the first step toward healing.”
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In summary, Kristina Lane’s candid essay is a powerful reminder that mental health struggles are common and should be openly discussed. By sharing our experiences and advocating for mental health awareness, we can help dismantle the stigma surrounding depression and encourage others to seek the help they deserve.
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