Coping with Depression
Depression is an acute sadness and negative view of the world that consistently comes and goes over a period of time. People who have never experienced depression in their lives can sometimes mistake this illness as nihilism and pure negatitivity and, sometimes, selfishness. People who suffer depression tend to spiral into a loop of uncontrollable hysteria, battle the "why me's" and "when will this end" that is typical of depression.
Know your triggers
Anything can trigger a depression. If you know why this thing triggers it, remove it from your life. If you had a severe breakup, and a particular memento reminds you of your significant other, remove this thing. Triggers can range from anything from a photograph to an article of clothing. It is recommended that you give these things to a trusted friend or family member for the duration of your depressive state, and only get them back untiil you know that you can handle having them around.
Get help for your depression
Depression is a serious condition, and should never be handled alone. Whether slight or acute, depression can lead to much deeper pains and suffering. Although someone may appear to be fine on the outside, you never know what horrible things they are going through in private. If you are depressed, it is imperative that you seek help from a trusted friend or family member who may be able to aid you, or, if they are unable, can point you towards someone who can.
There are many people who specialize in helping to cope with depression. Psychologists and doctors can help you find out why you are depressed and give you tips and instructions on how to cope with it. There are support groups who can be a pillar to help you overcome this period in your life. No matter how acute or slight your depression is, know that there is always someone who can help you.
Many people who suffer depression can sometimes come to think that they are inferior to other people. If you or a friend has someone going through this, do not berate them as that can only lead to worse thoughts and actions. Instead, be there for them. Reassure them that they are not inferior or ugly or unloved. A depressed person does not need punishment for their thoughts. They need support and love.
My story
As stated before, I have suffered acute depression in my life. My father died when I was very young. I had a deep relationship with him before his untimely death at 33. I did not know how to cope properly, and I spiraled down into an endless pool of depression and self-loathing. This went on for years until my friends took control and signed me up for a support group. I had blamed myself for his death.
I thought that my family must hate me for not being able to save him. I hated myself. I thought God must despise me, and that was why I was suffering the way I was. With the support group, I came to realize that none of this was true. I was not to blame for my father's death. My family did not hate me. God certainly did not despise me.
My eyes were opened, and things began to improve. Remember, no matter what, you are never alone.
Coping with Suicide
Suicide is the taking of one's own life. Many people have experienced a suicide or contemplated suicide in their life. Suicide is a devestating thing. It can tear apart your relationships in an instant, or lead to extreme depression in loved ones. How does one learn to cope with such a horrible thing?
Learn the facts
More than 90% of the people of the people who commit suicide have a mental disorder at the time of their death. Bipolar, schizophrenia, and depression are all linked to suicide (I suffer all of these). Alcoholism and substance abuse are also factors in many cases. However, these alone are not usually enough to drive someone to suicide (although some cases are like this). The person who killed themselves are often suffering more deeply from psychological pain, trauma, etc. Not having someone to turn to could drive them to suicide.
Suicide is not a moral weakness. It is not a flaw in their personality. It is not the fault of the individual. Suicide goes so much deeper than any of this. Learn the facts of why the person committed the act, and it will help with coping.
Find a support group
Sucide is a devestating force. Coping with suicide alone is next to impossible, if not impossible period. Finding a support group is the next step to healing. Having someone to talk to about this traumatic experience can go a long way in hleping you heal. A support group provides a safe, secure environment to discuss your feelings and how it has affected you. In addition, you can contact the suicide hotline for more information and help on how to cope.
Therapy
A therapist can uncover any underlying affects of the suicide and help you cope with them. Ask your doctor or other suicide survivors for recommendations. Grief counciling is also available. Remember, therapists have differing approaches to dealing with mental health. If the first therapist is not right for you, continue searching for the one you are most comfortable with.
My story
My cousin and best friend committed suicide several years ago. Unbeknownst to us, she had been suffering acute depression in silence for many years. She always put on a happy face at get togethers and played the part of the cheerful girl. I had thought our relationship was deep enough that she could feel comfortable telling me anything. I was wrong. Yes, we had a very close relationship, but I cannot ever know why she never felt safe to discuss her pain with me.
On July 11th, 2010, she committed suicide by swallowing two cyanide pills. This was on the day we had decided to go see Predators together. I was completely devestated. My world fell apart. I went into seclusion for nearly a month, and spoke to nobody about anything. I became an extreme introvert and rarely spoke to people.
Two years after her suicide, I sought out help. I got into contact with a suicide support group and was finally able to open up about my experience. I still talk with them on occasion.
In Conclusion...
If you or a loved one are hurting, never be afraid to seek out help. Suffering depression and suicidal thoughts/a suicide are not weird or strange. They are events millions of people go through, and it is important to be able to find adequate help.
24-hour Crisis Hotline: (212) 673-3000
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Get help now before it is too late.
Most Helpful Opinions