This past week has been a rough one. When I first heard about the death of Kate Spade, I sat there in complete and utter shock. So many thoughts running through my head: how much pain does someone have to be in to take their lives? To leave a little girl behind? I felt completely heartbroken for her and her entire family.
Then, this morning, waking up to the news of Anthony Bourdain sent me into such a state of sadness. From the outside, someone who truly seemed to have it all: fame, success, wealth, someone who traveled the world, was at the top of their craft, etc.
None of that means a thing when you’re suffering from a mental illness.
Before I had Nate, I’ve never really suffered from depression, but during my dark period of PPD, I got a glimpse of what that really felt like, even after the miracle of becoming a mother. I remember thinking “now I get it and I don’t wish this on my worst enemy.”
Mental Illness is a real disease. It’s not someone who is sad or someone having a bad day or week. In the past few years, I’ve had two friends who lost their siblings to suicide. They’re still left to put the pieces of the puzzle back together, but one of them said she had zero clue her brother was depressed.
If you’re struggling, look for help! Don’t suffer in silence. If you don’t want to speak to a friend, find a therapist. If you don’t love your therapist, find another one. Get the help you deserve. Remember: it’s not you, but your disease.
For non sufferers, let’s show up for those who need it. Let people know you’re there for them and offer whatever assistance you can. This is a crisis that we can actually do something about.
We need to talk about this more. Too many suffer in silence and that needs to change!
If you’re suffering, please call 800-273-8255, and someone will be glad to talk to you. Or text TALK to 741-741, if you prefer texting.
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