After the passing of Robin Williams there has been a renewed focus on depression. Depression is only one of the many difficult diseases that a person might carry but are not visible to others. I cannot feel what you feel anymore than you can feel what I feel. This is why we should be careful to judge.
You don’t look sick! He’s probably faking it! She’s just lazy..
These phrases are not uncommon and I’ve had similar to these said to my face as well.
As you might know by now, I’m struggling with a bad case of tendonitis at the moment. I’m not trying to compare tendonitis to depression as a disease, but they are both illnesses that you cannot tell if people have or not. I tried to stay at my job while I was on my first round of medication but it just got worse. So now I’m staying home, trying not to use my hands/shoulders that much, am on pretty heavy pain killers and I’m getting treatments from a physiotherapist twice a week. It’s painful and exhausting at times, but the feeling of not being taken serious about it is worse. I feel like I have to explain to the people that I know just how painful it is or else they will think that I’m not really sick. I shouldn’t have to feel that way!
I’m not going to go on a rant about this but I just wanted to post it as a reminder! Don’t be so quick to judge! You don’t know what is going on in other peoples bodies. Ask them if they need help instead of trying to figure out how sick they really are, leave that to the professionals. If you suspect that someone around you is having a hard time (in any way) then ask about it before you judge them.
And lastly, all of you out there that are struggling with some kind of illness: I hope you feel better soon!
Stay creative, keep on smiling and never underestimate the power of a good hug!
Big cyber hugs from me to you!!
I agree. We need to pay attention to the people we love.
Definitely! 🙂
I lost two brothers to suicide. One in 1988 and another in 1989. I wished I listened and pay better attention. Now 26 year later. a young woman wants to know about her father. Hard to see all pains. But we must try.
I’m so sorry to hear that. I’ve lost some friends to suicide too and there’s always that lingering question: “Could I have done anything to change that outcome?”
I think that the important thing is to not loose ourselves in all the what if that can never be answered.
The past can’t be changed, but we can always try to be here for those who needs us now and in the future.
I have been kinder and I learn how to listen. The past become lessons for us to become kinder and more gentle.
It sure does. The past isn’t for us to linger in, but to learn from.