Living with depression isn’t as simple as feeling sad or negative all the time — it’s actually much more complicated and oppressive.
People with depression frequently struggle with daily tasks that are easy for other people, such as getting out of bed or tidying the house. Unfortunately, friends and family members often don’t realize when such behaviors are the result of depression rather than, say, “laziness.”
A recent post on The Mighty’s Mental Health Facebook page prompted followers to share which depression-related habits or behaviors are often misunderstood or misinterpreted by other people. The responses prove that depression affects more than your mood — it can affect your surroundings and even your daily routine.
Here’s what some of the commenters had to say about their personal experiences:
1.
“I don’t like talking on the phone. I prefer to text. Less pressure there.
Also being anti-social. Not because I don’t like being around people, but because I’m pretty sure everyone can’t stand me.”
2.
“Going to bed at 9 pm and sleeping throughout the night until 10 or 11 am. Then getting out of bed is the hard part. Showering is also a struggle. Trying to keep the house tidy. Watching hours upon hours of Netflix but not even interested in what I’m watching because nothing really interests me anymore.”
3.
“Agreeing to social plans but canceling last minute. Using an excuse but really you just chickened out. (Depression) makes you think that your friends don’t actually want to see you, they just feel bad. Obligation.”