Depression is a life-threatening illness. In fact, it’s the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. If depression is so deadly, why is the stigma around its treatment so negative? Antidepressants have played a huge role in my life. I could even say that they have saved my life. But when I told close family members and advisors of mine about my decision to share my story relating to depression, I was told not to. I was told future employers and anyone on the internet could see this article and think negatively of me. That right there is the exact reason I decided to follow through with my story.
I have personally struggled with depression since my tween years, and I know I’m not alone. Even from when I was very young, I had always been aware of the negative perception surrounding antidepressants. I was told they would make me numb. I was told I shouldn’t rely on a pill for happiness. Well, here are my personal opinions on the matter. I am not a doctor, and what works for me may not work for you. Please keep that in mind.
The statement that you should not rely on a pill for happiness is, in all honestly, completely stupid. Depression can be situational, as well as genetic. Happiness does not come as easily for some as it does for others. If you are unhappy, and antidepressants can improve your mood and life overall, who cares. Who cares if this little pill is making your life more enjoyable. All it is doing is helping you regulate the emotions in your brain. Life is so short and you only get to live it once. Don’t waste your time worrying about where you are getting your happiness from.
Before I started my medications, I was so worried that I would become numb and void of emotion. I had been told multiple times that would happen to me if I started them. This is just a complete lack of knowledge and research. First off, we all are affected by things differently, and that includes the medications we put into our bodies. I told my doctor my concerns about this and she told me if it happened, it just meant that I was on the wrong kind. There are hundreds of different kinds of antidepressants, all with different effects. I tried three different kinds before I found the one that worked for me. If you truly are looking for antidepressants for help, don’t give up after trying one.
Depression is real and is something we should be able to talk about without feeling judged. I’m writing this article in hopes that someone who’s struggling sees it and decides to get help. I promise you it is worth it. If antidepressants don’t work for you, therapy is another amazing option. Please don’t let society’s interpretations of depression turn you away from seeking help. Being depressed does not mean you are mentally unstable. It is a normal thing that thousands of people struggle with daily. You are not alone.