Health is often seen as a mere physical entity and nothing else. Fortunately today, more and more people are becoming aware of the troubles of mental health problems. Similarly to discovering a horrifying physical health symptom or disease, uncovering mental health diagnosis and symptoms has been a process of experiencing the negative outcomes before finding a cure or treatment. This has led to people believing anyone with a diagnosis is unstable or dangerous. The stigma behind mental health is also deep rooted and diversely shared. Some believe mental health is a hoax propagated by pharmaceutical companies. Others simply believe it is a crutch for a “weaker generation.” However the evidence is clear that chemical imbalances in the brain do exist in individuals. These imbalances can lead to unfortunate symptoms such as depression, mood swings, hallucinations, delusions, etc. Although it is possible to speak about each of these symptoms at length, I am going to focus on the most common: Depression.
One of the most commonly misunderstood symptoms or diagnosis is depression. It can manifest itself differently in every person and for differing periods of time. Some are so clinically depressed they will not leave the bed, others are highly functioning but still manifest incredibly negative symptoms without making it apparent. Because of this, most people believe that if you are going to work, socializing with peers, and being a general contributor to society that it is impossible for you to be depressed. This could not be more wrong. If you know someone struggling with depression, you know they go out and do the things you do most of the time. Ventures for them are simply more difficult, trying, and seemingly pointless. It can at times be difficult to know how to help a friend or loved one that is depressed. It is actually quite a simple solution. Just be there for them. Don’t try to solve their problems or force them into solving them either, just be a friend. If they want to stay in and watch a movie, join them! Get them something nice to wear to encourage their self-confidence. Go shopping with them, and if they don’t want to go to the mall, online shop! You can even use Groupon Coupons for Forever21 to get them a new outfit to show off. It may be only shown off to you, but it’s about how they feel. Just love them for who they are, and always lend a listening ear!
