Within the past few years, I've fallen so deep into an emotional valley that I wasn't sure how to climb back to level land. I wondered why things were suddenly falling apart and not fitting back together. But having always been the strong one who usually rebounds, it only looked like a slight tumble to some of those looking at me from above.
“Snap out of it," a few said.
“Get over it!"
“It's a just test."
Well, excuse me. These aren't words we're trying to hear when we're feeling low – as a matter of fact, they often make us feel worse – but one can see a semblance of hope when she has the right support.
On the photo sharing platform Imgur, user, who goes by the alias Mollywho, recently shared a few reasons why she spiraled into a deep state of depression, including: having trouble at work, getting married but not having the funds for a real wedding, and being estranged from family and friends. In short, the girl has caught a bad case of the every day life blues!
She went on to admit that she isn't the easiest person to deal with, and often takes her grief out on her husband. But instead of him taking it personally or clapping back with empty clichés, he did this:
Upon returning from a trip to San Francisco, "Molly" found a note from her husband on the couple's bedroom mirror with a list of all of the reasons why he loved her. She shared:
Amidst all the struggle, my husband has relentlessly tried to cheer me up. I've not been the easiest person to deal with. In fact, sometimes I've lost all hope and even taken my frustration out on my new husband. But he somehow forgives me every time. I have a long journey ahead of me, and I know he probably realizes I'm depressed. But he holds my hand, and he tries his best. Today when I came home from a trip to SF, I flopped onto my bed in tears. I looked to my left, and saw these words painted all across my mirror. I think he wanted me to remember how much he loves me. Because he knows how quickly I forget. He knows I struggle to see good in the world, and especially the good in myself. But here it is. A testament and gesture of his love. Damn, I needed it today...
The list says:
1. she is my best friend
2. she never quits on herself or me
3. she gives me time to work on my crazy projects
4. she makes me laugh, everyday
5. she is gorgeous
6. she accepts the crazy person i am
7. she's the kindest person i know
8. she's got a beautiful singing voice
9. she's gone to a strip club with me
10. she has experienced severe tragedy yet is the most optimistic person about humanity i know
11. she has been fully supportive about my career choices and followed me each time
12. without realizing it, she makes me want to do more for her than i have ever wanted to do for anyone
13. she's done an amazing job at advancing her career path
14. small animals make her cry
15. she snorts when she laughs
He sounds like one of the most loving and nurturing people many of us wish we knew. Can he be my friend? Better yet, does he have a brother?!
Mollywho points out that of course a list isn't the cure to depression, but it is one part of a regiment to recovery.
“I'm not saying mental illness is cured by nice words on a mirror.In fact, it takes professional care, love, empathy, sometimes even medication just to cope. Many people struggle with it mental illness—more than we probably even realize. And instead of showing them hate or anger when they act out. Show them kindness and remind them things can and WILL get better."
She also posted a reminder of what love is about:
We all have our down days. And sometimes we don't handle it well. BUT, we are partners. He is here for me when I'm down. And I cherish that. And he has his down days, too. And I will be there to hold his hand, just like he holds mine. Life can be hard. The answer is never to mock, scoff, or belittle someone. Be kind. Be the best version of yourself. And be most of all- be patient.I'm still struggling, but I'm glad I have my other half to help me make it through. It may just be a few words on my mirror, but I'll look at them when I wake up and know I'm not alone. I'll know I have my bestfriend, my co-pilot in life to help guide me through.
The feels!!
What do you do to help deal with depression or to help someone get through it?
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