From this part of the world where i come from, there is so much stigma attached to mental health and its related issues that anyone who may show any signs of mental health or anyone with mental health issues that may need genuine help is not taken that much seriously, some even go to the extent of branding these individuals as mad or insane or not in their right mind.
This makes it more and more difficult for people to come out when they need help, so they stay in their shells and in their closests and suffer alone, they cry till they can't take it anymore and then the next thing we know that young innocent girl or boy who had an amazing talent, amazing skill and so much bright future ahead of them has taken their own life. Something that could have been easily avoided.
Recently i came across a student of mine who had fallen into a severe state of depression due some compounding issues that had been arising and she needed help, she needed treatment, care and attention and i was so glad that i was able to help her. Depression is no joke, it is as serious as it gets, depressed individuals are not lazy they just don't have the energy to try anymore.
It is not their fault, deep down they know they want to do this, they could if they can but try as they might their bodies and the mind is not allowing them, if you have ever watched the movie "Brain on fire" then you may perhaps understand the analogy i want to make. These individuals are already suffering so much and our society doesn't make it any easier for them to get better.
What we need to know is that depression is just like any other condition or disease, the way someone who gets malaria may want to be treated, it is the same thing that you should help your friend who is depressed to get the needed care and help. And if you happen to fall in this category and you are reading this from me today, please don't suffer alone.
There are many things that through science has proven to work now, therapies, medications, etc. Give it a try, don't be afraid to step out there and ask for help, visit any health facility today and talk to your doctor and they would do well to make sure that you get the best of care and get better. Please do not suffer alone, life is precious, stay safe and stay alive.
