Depression: MY UNSEEN DISABILITY

  I also deal with a unseen disability: depression.

Many people would exclaim that depression would be a natural reaction to all the limitations I deal with. This is frustrating because they don’t understand. Depression, which is induced by a chemical imbalance of the brain or is homoronal based,is a separate disability. My cerebral palsy doesn’t cause my depression.

  As you can see from the website, I have a fulfilling life. I struggle with depression because my body chemistry doesn’t regulate property. I would have struggled with this unseen disability even if I wasn’t born with my CP.

My depression is much more manageable on some days than others. Ten days before my menstrual cycle begins, I am engulfed by severe depression. (This condition is referred to PMDD.) become a different person. My mind slows to a halt. My energy and motivation go on a leave of absence. The bed becomes a best friend. Forget work. I can hardly string words together. I withdraw from my husband and friends.

If I had choice, I would choose cerebral palsy over clinical depression. This is quite a statement, considering how CP effects me.

Cerebral palsy keeps me from doing things. Depression, however, affects the emotional connection I have with my very own self, my husband, other people, and with Jesus. Indeed, my visible disability is a piece of cake compared to my invisible disability.

Therefore, when you meet someone who is dealing with an invisible disability, don’t judge. Think of me. I can’t walk, see well, or speak clearly. Yet, that is nothing. Losing one’s identity and proper perspective is a much harder struggle. It takes much prayer, trust in God, the right combination of medication, and the support of family and friends to manage an unseen disability such as depression.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) aims to better the lives of people with mental illnesses and their loved ones. Why loved ones? Because mental illness doesn't just affect the individual but also those who are closest to him/her.

NAMI hrelps through political advocacy, providing support groups, and offering educational classes.

NAMI helps so many, and I don't know what I would do without them. That is why I serve on the board of my local NAMI chapter.

  PLEASE go to www.nami.org if you need help coping with your own or someone else's mental illness.