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Depression affects more than 19 million Americans, yet it is still misunderstood by many, including some of those who suffer from it. So when a Depression Support community member, legs2001, asked the question, "What is the one thing that surprised you about depression?" the responses from members were overwhelming. The following words from iVillagers help paint a true picture of the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding depression.
I always thought that people who suffered from depression were crazy people on the streets who wandered around talking to themselves all day and wore slippers and bathrobes all the time. When I found out I was just like them, it made me realize that depression doesn't have a face. If you are depressed, it doesn't mean you have to be one of the "forgotten ones." --ewalsh75
The big thing that surprised me about depression is how it could totally knock me off my feet and turn me for a while into something I never thought I'd be. I have always considered myself one of the strongest women I know. I can "handle" anything
I had a very sweet guy at one of my jobs tell me that last year he had struggled with depression. He told me that until he went through it he did not get it. That is so true. It may seem odd, but too true. I don't feel anyone gets this until they have faced it.
I'd say the most surprising thing that I've learned about dealing with depression is how it can take over your whole life. Before, I thought, Yeah right, depression
