Depression

Depression won't ever be overly-discussed. Depression is not like an outfit that will go out of style. Depression is real. Living with depression is one of the biggest battles I've had to face, and I know many of you face it too.

It's hard not to be depressed

The truth is, when you're living with a chronic illness, it's pretty hard not to be depressed. At times it can feel like life is nothing but a bunch of appointments and meds. As if the sick don't matter. What we're going through doesn't matter. With the lack of awareness of IBD, I think it's especially true for us.

Depression is not a choice

Depression is a serious condition and should be taken as such. The positive posts about people with IBD who are running marathons or on their third healthy pregnancy are great, but let's face it, if you're suffering from depression the last thing you need to hear is how great someone else is doing with a similar circumstance to your own. I could tell you to be positive all day, but the fact is, I know that depression is not a choice. I try to look to the bright side. I also try to help others to see the light in their own situations as well. I know it's important to be grateful and appreciate everything in life. I also know that telling someone that while they're depressed doesn't really do them much good.

But truth is, I'm here for you. The biggest lies our depression tricks us into believing is that we are alone. That no one understands us and that no one ever will. As I said, lies.

Many people are dealing with this

There are many other people who struggle with their own mental health in the same ways you do. We care.

I know what it's like to cry on the bathroom floor. Wishing and praying the pain would go away, if only for an hour. I know what it's like to try to explain your pain to deaf ears. I know what it's like to watch everyone around you live a life you only wish you could enjoy. It's painful. I know what it's like to wish you were happy. I also know what it's like to have the world on your shoulders and everyone pressuring you to be positive. I know depression is not a choice. If it were, no one would have it! Who wants to be depressed?

I see you and I'm here for you

This is not one of those posts where I pressure you into being happy. This is not one of those articles that teaches you how to "cure" your depression with a smile. This is for you. This is a post to let you know: I see you. I see your pain. I am familiar with your pain. If you want to cry, cry. If you need to scream, scream. Your emotions are valid. How you are feeling is real.

I know it's easy to feel lost and invisible. You're not. I'm here for you. This entire team is here for you.