preview

I Have Depression Essay

Good Essays

I push myself through the masses of students in the hallway, knowing that my eyes are beginning to water. My friends approach me tentatively, draping their arms across my shoulder, inquiring as to what ails me. The only response is the shuddering of my frame and a barely audible whisper. "I don't know what's wrong anymore." I am ushered to the bathroom, or the guidance center, or some secluded space, my friend murmuring reassurances all the while. "It'll be ok, Jess. It'll get better. Everything is going to turn out fine." I remain taciturn, save for an occasional sniffle.



An authority figure - a teacher, a counselor - joins us, nodding slightly to my companion. At that she wanders off toward her class but not before …show more content…

Perhaps it is the unwarranted stigmas and myths attached to this disease. Clinical depression is not merely a "case of the blues," it is a ceaseless feeling of sadness without cause, of hopelessness, of unfounded guilt. Though these are the telltale aspects of the illness, there are a variety of symptoms to be aware of. One of the most obvious signs is constant thoughts of death and suicide. Many people think that people who frequently speak of taking their own life will not do so; this, in fact, is one of the most tragic misconceptions. Usually someone whose conversations revolve around killing himself or herself is trying to ask for help. If left untreated, it is quite probable that this victim will attempt suicide, thinking that no one cares whether or not they continue to live. As suicide is the eighth highest cause of death in the United States, it is imperative that we recognize those who have suicidal tendencies. Merely having thoughts of death does not constitute being suicidal, though once one considers ways to do harm to themselves, or to actually plan out a suicide, is the time for their loved ones to be incredibly concerned. Other less apparent symptoms include either an overwhelming feeling of drowsiness or insomnia, a lack of interest in pleasurable activities, an increase in drug use, a decreased sex drive, and a withdrawal from society. If two or

Get Access