To the Person who did not Believe I was Depressed

Dear person who did not believe I was depressed,

I have learnt that everyone comes with their own set of problems - and I now know you did too. I know things were not easy for you and you had trouble managing your emotions.

I will tell you that it was hurtful to hear someone I care about tell me they did not believe what I was experiencing.

The pain of this haunted me for a long time.

I know that a lot of people experience others not believing that they are depressed. I mean how could you possibly be depressed when you look so happy, right?

We expect the people closest to us to try to understand us, to hold our hand and let us know we are not alone - the sad truth of the situation is we don’t always get that.

We don’t always get the support and love that we need.

It took me some time to understand this - and I started supporting myself. I gave myself the love that I needed from those around me.

So, person who thought my depression was fake, I no longer hold anything against you.

And now, to the people who have such individuals in your life - I understand it is in no way easy, things are painful and you do not feel heard or loved.

I hear you.

I share your pain.

I share your loneliness.

I will not ask you to be strong, but I will ask you to be kind.

To yourself.

Treat yourself with kindness and love - give yourself time to heal.

Give yourself time to love yourself again.

Lots of love and hugs,

Someone who has learnt to love themselves