Being that I’m pretty open about living with depression and anxiety means that people are pretty open with me and I’ve learnt something that’s pretty scary…
I’ve learn’t that often the happiest, funniest, most vivacious people I know are not okay, often they are hiding their own struggles with depression and anxiety.
When I first started talking about living with depression and anxiety people were suprised, saying things like “you’re so bubbly though, you are so chatty, you don’t look like a depressed person” truth is if I’m doing through a bad patch, it takes alot out of me to just be, to get out of bed to interact with others.
So what am I getting at? What’s my point here, am I looking for attention? Am I glorifying mental illness? Would I like a go fund me campaign for more CBD oil?
Nope I just thought I’d share some things to look out for in your bubbly, not depressed looking friend, that could save a life… Because far too often undiagnosed depression and anxiety end up in suicide…
Be concerned if your loved one…
Doesn’t seem to care about anything anymore. Has lost interest in work, sex, hobbies, and other pleasurable activities. Has withdrawn from friends, family, and other social activities.
Expresses a bleak or negative outlook on life. Is uncharacteristically sad, irritable, short-tempered, critical, or moody; talks about feeling “helpless” or “hopeless.”
Frequently complains of aches and pains such as headaches, stomach problems, and back pain. Or complains of feeling tired and drained all the time.
Sleeps less than usual or oversleeps. Has become indecisive, forgetful, disorganized, and “out of it.”
Eats more or less than usual, and has recently gained or lost weight.
Drinks more or abuses drugs, including prescription sleeping pills and painkillers.
– Those signs are from a site I found and the site has tips on what to say and what not to say when you notice any of those signs
For more info on mental illness SADAG is a great resource, I did a “responsibile reporting on mental health” short course with them a few years ago and they are a wealth of information
