Blue?

Most people had, at some point of their lives said, "I'm feeling down". They either said that out loud or think it in their minds. They may say it with despair or try to laugh off the statement. Most people snap out of it soon, may be a few hours, could be a few days, or even take weeks.

Depression happens in varying degrees of severity. What you and I experience once in a while (feelin' the "blues") is something that our intrinsic coping mechanism can handle. So we somehow managed to come out unscathed most of the time. "Feeling depressed" does NOT mean you are suffering from depression.

However, many people harbour misconceptions towards depression sufferers. It's important to understand that depression can be brought on or exacerbated by a wide range of circumstances. There is no single way to approach it.

"It's all in the head."
"Count your blessings and pull yourself together."
"Think positive! Speak positive!"
"Let's pray."

The above are common advice given by well-meaning friends, parents, or even church leaders. Yet in reality, it does nothing to allay the fears, anxieties and insecurities that so gripped certain sufferers.

Talk therapy or counseling is helpful to depression sufferers. They need to be allowed a chance to vocalise their feelings, to have someone there to walk them through their thought processes. They can't help thinking pessimistic thoughts. Listening to them may give us a glimpse into their dark little world that no one sees or understands. You can't solve a problem you know nothing about. That's basic.

Counseling is not a dirty word. If anyone need it, go for it. It doesn't mean you are "weak" or a "failure". It doesn't even have to mean you are "queer" either. Support from family and friends is important, but at times professional help may be required, and that's nothing to be ashamed of. Information on where to find help is easily available. Get help and be happy.