The idea of having a mental illness is terrifying. Once I’ve been labelled with depression, am I somehow different from everyone else?
In a world where having an illness of any sort is perceived as making you less desirable, the thought can tear a person apart.
It’s hard not to label yourself as the illness.
I don’t want to label myself as depression. I don’t want to wake up in the morning and think: “Hi, I’m the depressed girl who cuts! I have a bad family life and much more negativity around me. I am depressed. It’s who I am.”
I don’t want to make that label a part of my personality.
I want to wake up in the morning and think, “I am a strong individual. I’ve faced a lot in life. I’m dealing with some problems, but it will get better. I am strong.”
Do not let your depression define you. You are not depression. You are much more than that. Depression is not a part of your personality. You can and will overcome it.
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Thinkstock photo via Victor_Tongdee