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Community-written · Human experiences · Lived insight
I’ve heard people say things like “Oh, she’s just depressed”. Just?
Most people, unless they’ve been there, have no idea what depression is really all about. Most people use the word Sad.
It’s not really sad. But yeah, sometimes it is. It’a hollow, hopeless, emptiness, that consumes you. Your world is black and bleak. Nothing matters.
You could be expecting your first grandchild, or your son’s dream of attending Yale just came true, it doesn’t matter. You put on a brave face, smile and act the part, but inside, you are barely functioning.
This is depression.
I’ve had times when all I wanted to do is sleep. Because when you sleep, the world goesaway. You don’t have to deal with… anything. Even if all that means is making dinner, or taking a shower, or driving to the store; it’s all just too much.
What you are feeling inside is an incredible darkness. A hopelessness and helplessness. You also feel worthless, defeated, unworthy and shameful. So you hide. You hide your symptoms.
This is why Depression is such a serious thing. It can be a deadly thing. When Everything is too much to deal with, what’s the alternative?
If you know someone that sleeps too much or isolates themselves, please reach out to them. If they have stopped their normal pursuits, the things that used to make them happy, pay attention! Just knowing that there is someone who understands can be a great comfort.
If you have these types of feelings, talk to someone. Anyone. Talk to your doctor or a friend or a counselor. There is help out there. There is No Shame in what you are feeling.
There is such a stigma attached to depression. People have swept it under the rug or they dismiss it as something trivial. It’s Not trivial folks!
Think about Robin Williams, Kurt Cobain, Mindy McCready, the list is a long one.
It’s real folks. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation about it.
Penny Wilson is an international writer who writes in several genres. She has written articles for WOW Women on Writing. Her poetry has been published in online journals, such as Ariel Chart, Spill Words Press and the Poppy Road Review. Penny is a member of the Austin Poetry Society. Her poetry has been featured in the publication America’s Emerging Poets 2018 & 2019 by Z Publishing and Poets Quarterly and Dual Coast Magazine published by Prolific Press. Most recently, you can find her poetry in an anthology by WordCrafter Press called Poetry Treasures.
Penny is an advocate for Mental Health Awareness and has the page “Mental Health Help” on her blog. She writes about the struggles of mental illnesses and Depression. She is passionate about spreading awareness for Suicide Prevention and Domestic Abuse. She expresses her passion through her writings of poetry and life experiences. You can find more of her writings on her blog at https://pennywilsonwrites.com/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is emotional intelligence?
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand, and manage emotions in yourself and others. It helps people communicate better, make thoughtful decisions, and build healthier relationships.
Why is emotional intelligence important for wellbeing?
Emotional intelligence helps people handle stress, manage conflict, and respond thoughtfully instead of reacting emotionally. These skills improve resilience and personal wellbeing.
How can I improve emotional intelligence?
You can improve emotional intelligence through self-reflection, learning from emotional experiences, practicing empathy, and developing awareness of how emotions influence behaviour.
Dear Penny, thank you very much for raising awareness of this common mental health condition – depression. As you know, I’ve been in that place up until quite recently. I recognise all my symptoms here; sleeping in, not eating (or eating overeating), lethargy, tiredness and withdrawing from my usual activities and friends. At times, I felt ashamed of feeling the way I did, but now, I can see that I was very depressed. I took your advice and spoke to my doctor at the time. I am now on antidepressants, and along with a change in my circumstances, I mostly feel a lot better.
I’m sure there will be many people who will be reading this website and who will benefit from your words. As you say, we need to look out for these signs in others and offer support and understanding. Thanks again for bringing this important subject to the attention of everyone. Xx 💓
Oh, Dear Ellie. I’m so glad that you found help! I have noticed that your posts are much more positive these days. If I had some small part in you finding help, then I’m so glad! Stay well! <3 <3 <3
I find your help and support on your blog very helpful, and I daresay, it helps other people, too, even if they don’t always let you know. Thanks again.. Xx 💓✨💓
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