I’ve Been There:
Hey friends,
This post is a little more personal. If you’ve ever felt like you’re moving through life in slow motion, like joy has quietly left the room and you don’t know when it’s coming back—you’re not alone. That feeling has a name: depression. And if you’re in the middle of it, I want to say this first and loudest: it’s not your fault.
So… Why Does Depression Happen?
Depression doesn’t always come from one big thing. Sometimes it creeps in slowly. Other times it crashes down like a wave. There are a few reasons why it can happen:
1. Brain Chemistry
Our brains rely on chemicals like serotonin and dopamine to regulate mood. When those levels get out of balance, it can make everything feel dull, heavy, or hopeless. It’s not about being “weak” or “lazy”—it’s literally biology.
2. Life Hits Hard
Losing someone, going through a breakup, losing a job, or even just carrying the weight of too much change—these can all trigger depression. Even happy events (like moving or having a baby) can bring stress that becomes overwhelming.
3. The Past Shows Up
Sometimes it’s not what’s happening right now, but what happened years ago. Childhood trauma, neglect, or emotional wounds we never had the tools to process can resurface and impact our mental health in the present.
4. Health Stuff
Things like thyroid issues, chronic pain, or long-term illness can bring on depression. And certain medications can mess with your mood, too. This is why it’s important to check in with a doctor when you’re feeling persistently low.
What Can You Do About It?
If you’re reading this and nodding your head, maybe it’s time to give yourself permission to ask for help. Here’s what’s helped me (and many others) when it gets tough:
1. Talk About It
Open up to someone you trust. A friend, a sibling, a therapist. You don’t need to have the “right” words—just saying “I’m not okay right now” is enough to start.
2. Get Professional Support
Therapists aren’t just for “broken” people (spoiler: no one is broken). They’re trained to help you understand your mind and teach you tools to manage the hard days. And if needed, a doctor might suggest medication to help rebalance your brain chemistry.
3. Move—Just a Little
I know the idea of exercising when you’re depressed feels like a joke. But gentle movement—like stretching, walking, or dancing around your room—can give you a tiny boost. Think of it as a little “nudge” to your system.
4. Sleep, Eat, Repeat
It’s boring advice, but it’s real: sleep matters. So does food. Try not to skip meals. Try to get to bed at a similar time each night. These little routines build structure when your mind feels messy.
5. Don’t Believe Everything You Think
Depression is a liar. It tells you you’re worthless, or that no one cares. That’s not the truth—it’s the illness talking. Try to step back and challenge those thoughts. Write them down and ask: “Would I say this to someone I love?”
6. Start Small
On the worst days, getting out of bed might be all you can do. That’s okay. Make your bed. Drink water. Take a shower. These aren’t “small” wins when you’re struggling—they’re victories.
You’re Not Alone
If you take nothing else from this post, let it be this: you are not alone, and things can get better. Not overnight. Not without effort. But slowly, with the right help and support, you can find light again.
If you’re in a dark place right now, please consider reaching out to a therapist, doctor, or support hotline. You are so worth the effort it takes to feel better.
Thanks for reading this far. I see you. You’ve got this.
With love,
Mary Kirov
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