No matter how successful someone is, there is no immunity from being human. Everyone, some more than others, have those days where it seems impossible to get out of bed and see no value in starting the day. All it can take is a smile and the best clothes to give others the perception of happiness.

It’s a hard topic to talk about. It’s difficult to get others to understand when it’s something the person doesn’t even understand themselves. It has a reputation in society as something “abnormal”, but at one point in everyone’s lives it is dealt with. For some, it comes earlier and lasts longer. No matter the extent, it is something that no one should be ashamed of.

I know how you feel, and chances are there are many others who do too. The ache in your chest, because no matter how hard you want to be out enjoying your life like you see others doing it’s not possible to get out of bed. The oversleeping just to be able to escape everything for a little. The loss of appetite, the uninvited crying, the unwillingness to do anything including school or work. It’s incredibly frustrating, especially when it seems like you’re the only person in the world feeling like this.

When you experience this, do the opposite of what you want to. If you don’t have an appetite and haven’t eaten, go to dinner with family. If you’ve been in bed with the lights off trying to sleep everything away, hang out with friends. Most important, if you’re holding back tears let them out. It’s not weak, and holding it in from the people you’re closest with in fear of burdening them is self-destructive. Like many things, there is no quick fix. It may seem like there will never be a good day again but there will be. Surround yourself with positive influences and ask for help when it is needed. Use this journey as an opportunity to touch someone else’s life.

Based on previous experiences and observations when adults or authority figures try to engage in this subject it can have the opposite effect. The situation ends up feeling even more hopeless, because it’s like there’s no one who really understands but there is. There is so much more to experience in life then whatever is going on now. When it feels like there’s nothing to do but give up, take a breath and start over. Today could be the worst day you’ve ever had, but tomorrow could be the best just be here undergo it.