Depression is not an easy thing to deal with. I have always been completely transparent with my struggles on my blog because if I can help one person out there struggling I can find a reason from God as to why I have to struggle with depression. I am currently in school for clinical mental health counseling as well so it's kinda a passion of mine to help people struggling with mental illness.

I have learned a lot about myself over the years when it comes to my own mental illness. I have also gone through a lot of treatment as far as my mental health as well. Plus, I have been on a lot of different medications until I found what worked for me and my bipolar depression and anxiety. I thought I would share with you some of the things I have learned. Depression and anxiety are very hard to deal with at times. It can be a very frustrating process and sometimes you can feel very alone.

Here is what I have learned:

1. It is okay to not be okay.

2. You are going to have good days and bad days and that is completely normal when it comes to anxiety and depression.

3. You are going to get through this no matter how bad it may seem in the moment.

4. You are never truly alone. There is always hope and a light at the end of the tunnel.

5. There is nothing wrong with having to take medicine to help your anxiety and depression. Sometimes, you need something extra to help you. You have a chemical imbalance in your brain. Think of these medications as correcting that imbalance. The same way as someone who takes high blood pressure medications or heart medications as a way of correcting something that isn't running correctly in your body. There should be no shame. You have a condition just like any other condition. Thank god we have these medications to help.

6. You are strong for admitting you need help. Sometimes, that is the hardest step. There should be no shame in getting help.

7. Depression is a common mental disorder. Globally, more than 264 million people of all ages suffer from depression. Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

8. It is okay to feel the feelings and cry. If you need to scream then scream. Do what you need to. Don't keep the feelings pent up. Feel the progression of the feelings it is completely healthy and will make you feel better.


9. Eventually it does get better. These feelings are only temporary. Eventually, you will feel better and the depression and the anxiety will ease up.

10. It is okay to be yourself. Don't put any expectations on yourself. 

11. Your situation is completely unique to you and your depression and anxiety are different no matter other people's struggles.

12. Know your triggers and what sets off your depression and anxiety. Prepare ahead to try to avoid those triggers as best as possible.

13. Therapy and treatment do work even when you think it isn't working.

14. There is a reason behind a lot of mental illnesses. For example trauma and DNA/family history.

15. What you are feeling is completely valid. You don't need to explain your feelings or justify them.

16. Feel whatever you need to feel in that moment otherwise your anxiety and depression will only get worse in most cases. Don't avoid feeling your feelings.

17. It is okay to ask people for support from loved one's. YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE ALONE.


18. Learning positive coping skills are crucial.

19. Self-care is extremely important.

20. Know your limits. Don't try to be an overachiever. It is completely okay to tell people no.

21. You need to give yourself some grace and a break to recharge every once in a while. That way you do not burn out or lead yourself to a mental health crisis. 

22. Not everyone will understand what you are going through.

23. Do not listen to what your anxiety/depression is telling you. You are not a failure, you are worth it, etc.


24. Isolating is the worst thing you can do. 

25. Push yourself even when you don't feel like doing something. Try as hard as you can to get out of your head. Try distracting yourself.

Do you deal with depression and or anxiety?
What have you learned over the years about yourself?

xoxo,