I guess it's like getting a new car. All of a sudden you see the same model over and over on the roads. Before you bought the car, you weren't really aware of them, or at least, as much.
Same goes with depression .. for me at least.
Since my brother has been suffering, I'm finding all sorts of people are telling me their experiences - either personal or someone they love's. It's actually heart-rendering hearing and reading these stories .. many far worse than my brother's.
Take one (lovely, lovely) lady I bowl with. Her daughter is depressed. She is now 27, and has suffered immensely over the years. She was raped at age 6, but blocked it out until she was about 13. From 13 she started drinking and self-harming. Her parents didn't know what was wrong, until at age 18 it all came out. Since then she has lived a life of severe ups and downs.
And then the numerous friends who have told me about their family members who have suffered depression. Many tried to commit suicide, and a couple succeeded ?
It's awful. And I had no idea it was quite as prolific as it is.
There are too many people who don't understand depression I've found. Including those who currently suffer who used to think of others they should just pull their socks up and get on with it. But for every person who doesn't understand, there are plenty who do too, and have been a great support to both me and my family.
To anyone who suffers, or has someone close to you that suffers, please have a massive ?
