By Kimberly Zapata When I was 15 years old, I was diagnosed with depression. I was young and naive; I was scared and ashamed; and I had no desire to explain my disease to anyone because I didn’t want others to know I was “sick.” I didn’t want others to think I was crazy. I … Continue reading How to Explain Depression to Those You Love
Tag: friends and family
How To Help Suicide Attempt Survivors, From Those Who Have Been There
By Kimberly Zapata The first time I tried to take my life, I was 17 years old. No one knew. I wrote a note and made a plan, bought a bottle of pills, and ingested them en masse, swallowing two, three, and four at a time. While I became ill, spending the next 36 hours … Continue reading How To Help Suicide Attempt Survivors, From Those Who Have Been There
8 Things Not To Say To Someone With Mental Illness
By Kimberly Zapata For the last 16 years, I have struggled with depression. That means I have had 16 years of highs and lows. Sixteen years of ups and of downs. And 16 years of therapy — for 16 years I have been chasing a cure. It also means I have had 16 years to … Continue reading 8 Things Not To Say To Someone With Mental Illness
Why It’s So Hard To “Ask For Help” When You’re Depressed
By Kimberly Zapata I am depressed. Again. And if I’m being honest, I have been for quite some time. That said, it is easy for me to write these words. It feels comfortable, natural. Like I am having a conversation with myself. But to say these words — to look another human being in the … Continue reading Why It’s So Hard To “Ask For Help” When You’re Depressed
Greater Than: Illness 