It strikes at any time, under many conditions and for many reasons. And yet it is one of the most misunderstood diseases. Depression affects moms, dads, young women, men and children. Yet, we do not teach our children that it is okay to talk about negative feelings. We do not teach our children that its okay to ask for help. More than anything, this has created a stigma associated with depression. Do not feel ashamed. Would you feel ashamed if you had heart disease, cancer, or asthma?

The first step in learning to live with depression is to understand the disease. You must realize that there is a solution, and that you are not alone. Almost every family in the world has a loved one that is suffering from depression. Many people appear happy and content on the outside but suffer in silence. The faces of depression take many forms but they all share a feeling of loneliness and isolation. One of the worst things you can do is to act happy and cover up your feelings. Instead talk to someone honestly about how bad you feel.

Depression is not something you can fix by changing your attitude. The problem is a chemical imbalance in your brain which creates the feelings of despair. It is mostly commonly attributed to low levels of serotonin in the brain. There is a solution, but you must take responsibility for your treatment If you have no motivation to get out of bed in the morning, find no happiness in the activities you used to enjoy, and feel utter hopelessness, you need help. You must find someone to talk about it. Don't gloss it over, don't be shy, talk honestly and bluntly about how you feel. Don't let embarrassment and shame hold you back from getting help.

Give those who care about you a chance to help. If you never ask for help you are denying your loved ones the opportunity to help you. You will be surprised at how many people share your feelings and sincerely want to help you.

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