People With Depression Cannot 'Snap Out Of It'
by Kevin Caruso
One of the most ignorant and insensitive statements that anyone can make to someone with depression is "snap out of it."
Unfortunately, this statement is uttered constantly to
people who are depressed.
So why don't the ignorant people who say "snap out of it" to people with depression
tell people with other illnesses to "snap out of it"?
Because they do not understand that depression is an illness.
Illness? Depression is an illness? Some may ask. Yes, depression is an illness.
People do not choose depression. Depression causes a chemical imbalance in the
brain, and thus people can't "snap out of it."
People with depression need treatment, just like people with other illnesses need treatment. But many people who have depression do not receive treatment
because of the societal stigma that is associated with depression.
Many people think individuals with depression are weak. And that they are choosing to
be depressed, or they are just acting. And thus should be able to "snap out of it."
Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong.
Not only is depression an illness that people cannot "snap out of," but untreated depression is also the number one cause for suicide.
Depression is a very serious mental illness that always needs to be treated
And it is highly treatable.
The vast majority of people who receive treatment for their depression get better.
If you believe that you are suffering from depression, please make appointments
with a doctor and a therapist so you can be assessed and treated.
Please read the depression and suicide page on this website
for more information about depression and its symptoms.
And if anyone ever says "snap out of it" to you, remember that they are ignorant and
insensitive, and that is their problem, not yours.
Get help if you need it.
And do so now.
And if you know someone who is depressed, please do everything that you can
do get them the help that they need.
Remember that untreated depression is the number one cause for suicide.
If you or someone you know is suicidal, please go to the Home Page of this website for immediate help.
Thank you.
I love you.
Take care,
Kevin Caruso
