Join Pushing Lovely and me on the #DayOfLight, Wednesday, February 5th. We are taking to social media to bring depression out of the dark.
“That’s the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything, as long as she sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious, and it compounds daily, that it’s impossible to ever see the end.” ― Elizabeth Wurtzel, Prozac Nation
Depression is definitely something that should not be taken lightly or brushed off. It can kill. It can leave a person debilitated and isolated. Often family and friends just don’t get it. This movement is to help us all get it. To help us realize and recognize the harsh realities of depression and make a difference in the lives of others.
What is Depression?
Depression is a common but serious mental illness typically marked by sad or anxious feelings. These feelings tend to linger for periods longer than 2 weeks at a time and interfere with daily activities. Depression does not discriminate based on age, race, gender or sexuality.You are not alone. Depression is often an illness of isolation. People suffer in silence, and frequently feel as if they are alone. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) more than 20 million people in the United States suffer from depression. Join the ladies of Pushing Lovely as we work together to bring depression out of the dark and declare February 5th, 2014 the #DayOfLight.
What is #DayOfLight?
#DayOfLight was created to shine a light on depression, and share resources for those who are struggling with the mental illness. Bloggers from all over the country are collaborating on Wednesday, February 5th to flood social media with personal stories about living with depression, and accurate information on managing and living with the mental illness.
How Can You Participate?
- Write a blog post sharing your personal experience of depression and/or share resources to help others. Add the #DayOfLight hashtag in your post title.
- Watch the #DayOfLight Google Hangout on Wednesday, February 5th at 11 AM EST. Tweet and ask questions. (http://bit.ly/1ilifbP)
- Participate in the #DayOfLight twitter chat on Wednesday, February 5th at 9 PM EST (follow @PushingLovely, @NotoriousSpinks, and @BrandiJeter for more information)
- Turn your social media avatars black and white on Wednesday, February 5th so we can visually represent all of those affected by depression.
- Share inspiring tweets, posts, and photos on social media to encourage those who are suffering with depression to let them know that they are not alone. Use the hashtag #DayOfLight.
Mina Slater says
I know so many people who have dealt with this, including myself. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of & I’m glad this is being talked about!
CrazyMom a/k/a Melanie says
Thanks for sharing… loved your post…depression is such an important thing to talk about.. thanks for spreading the word
Whitney says
I never thought about depression until I started going through menopause. I went to the doctor and she put me on a medication to handle depression and the symptoms of menopause. It can be tough, but this is a wonderful idea. Thanks Diva!
Nicole says
I am so happy to hear about this cause. As someone who dealt with depression her whole life, it’s important to let others know there is no shame in it.
ladymarielle says
My mother in law is went through depression after the death of her father. I remember thinking how weak she was and I feel bad about it. I applaud her for taking the steps necessary to get treatments!
Fan R @TeddyOutReady says
Such a great idea to teach people about depression, not only who suffer but also those who are around and are looked for help.
kristentoneycampbell says
This is the second post I’ve read today on #DayofLight and I think it’s fabulous! Thank you for bringing attention to this!
Annemarie says
Thanks for sharing it is so important to bring awareness. I know a few people who are suffering from depression this could just make that difference.
becca says
what a great article and thank you for shining a light of this disease
Rachée Fagg (@sayitrahshay) says
I will be there for sure. I think people with depression should have a place to talk and work it out with being made to feel ashamed.
Ashley Gill says
My mother suffered from Depression and I have an autoimmune disease that has a side effect of Depression. I am lucky to not suffer too bad. I have learned to manage it. My family just doesn’t understand though.
Ronnie Epstein says
Thanks for putting light to this issue. I’ve been diagnosed with clinical depression many, many years ago and it’s unfortunate that it tends to be downplayed as sadness and lack of effort.I’d like to support this initiative as well. 🙂
Return of The Curls says
Thank you from sharing! This is such an important topic that unfortunately people aren’t comfortable discussing but in order to help one another we HAVE to talk about. Depression effects the sufferer as well as the family! I know because my mother suffers from depression. It puts a HUGE strain on our relationship and it is really hard to deal with. If I had not educated myself on the disease and it’s symptoms it could’ve have possibly DESTROYED our relationship!
toughcookiemommy says
This is such an important cause to bring attention to that affects millions of people.
Ashley Wintters says
Awareness is the first step. Takes away the ‘stigma’ that most people associate with depression.
casavilorainteriors says
Depression affects so many folks and their loved ones. Thanks for bringing some awareness
Aisha Kristine Chonga says
Hopefully, I would get the time for myself to do this – I’d love to make a post about it (hopefully when all the busy schedule ends) Depression is something each of us have undergone once or twice – maybe some are undergoing it now so it is important that we share these stuff and let those people know how to deal with it and let them know that.. hey – you are not alone.
Amanda Love ~ Growing Up Madison says
Great idea and great post. We do need to bring awareness to a problem that a lot of people think is shameful but it really isn’t. I suffered with PSD after my daughter was born and had a tough time with it. Having a support system in place will mean so much to those joining in.
Amber Nelson says
This is awesome you are doing this. The first step is talking about it.
Jennifer Williams says
I think it is great that you are all coming together to bring awareness as well as to help educate people. This is something that my family has dealt with for years so I am very familiar with it as well as with the fact that some people just do not get it.
Pam W says
It’s great that there is a day focusing on depression. It is a cause close to my heart and it is so misunderstood.
mburbage says
Getting help is a great first step for everyone suffering from depression ( or anything else) Going to share this
Terry My Journey With Candida says
I am happy to see that there has become such an awarness of Depression. #DayOfLight Is going to be big… you get bloggers involved and it will sky rocket.
Wendy Bottrell (@wendybottrell) says
We had a day here in Canada just last week on Depression! Thanks for sharing
Say Something Kita (@Kreative10) says
As a person who went through it it’s not easy. It’s hard because you feel alone and have no one to talk to. I am so glad you are bringing this to light so that others can share and not be afraid to tell their story in hopes of healing.
Shelly Maynard says
This is a very good way to get Depression knowledge out there. Some people just don’t understand the pain! Stopping by from SGBG!
kneecole3 says
This is great! Depression affects so many people. They need to know it’s ok.
Amber Louise Edwards says
Depression afflicts so many I personally know. It is a trial that is so difficult to manage and so impossible to understand from those that have never experienced it. This is a brilliant campaign to help bring awareness and help to build bridges and understanding for those with it and those who have loved ones who suffer from depression.
Sarah says
I think it is an amazing idea – its so sad how taboo it still is to talk and cancer and how many people suffering in silence due to that 🙁 x
Aleshea Dominique says
I like this. More people need to speak up about “illness” you can’t always see. Show the strength they have
Lawna says
Just within the past few days it has finally came to light that someone very close to me is suffering from depression from repressed memories that just arose. It’s nice to know that there is awareness out there and that you are shining some light on the issue.
Teresa @ Crafty Wife says
I love this! Thank you for starting a discussion about it. I struggled with depression after my dad passed away (very suddenly) and without the love, support, and understanding of those around me I wouldn’t have been able to pull out of it.
suggstravel says
Thanks for bringing this topic to the light. Have a great day.
Stephanie Cox says
Thanks for bringing a somewhat positive message regarding depression. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. It’s amazing what talking with others can do for you.
Coolchillmom says
Depression is do misunderstood. Thanks for bringing it to the forefront
Lashawn says
Great post! Despite all of the media attention and education on mental illness, there are still so man misconceptions out there. Hopefully a day of light will help bring new awareness!
kay adeola says
Great post,I think people need to learn more about depression and not just brush it off i am sure this post will help everyone that reads it.
ChristyRenee' Garth-Williams says
Great Post! I think we all know someone who has been affected by depression. A much needed post.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
I Have moments of anxiety and irritability, but I always just assume it’s part of being a mother and wife. Thanks for bringing awareness to this 🙂
Michele says
Depression is a disease that nobody sees and is misunderstood by many. It is time that it was brought out into the light and out of the darkness.
Theresa says
I think this is such a great idea! While I don’t personally deal with depression, I do have a family member who does, and it sure does suck a lot out of her!
Liz Mays says
It’s really a crippling thing to deal with when in the middle of it. I’ve learned that it’s just best for me to stay on meds to keep me level. I feel so much better that way.
Kalley C says
Great Idea! I will be participating in this. I have a loved one who is battling depression and its so true–I don’t really know what they are going through. I want to understand it better.
yvonne1wilson says
Fantastic idea Michelle! I’ve had my own experience with depression and know what it can do to an individual..so many negative thoughts goes through your mind, and without the help and the treatment, lives can be lost.
Michelle says
So very true, Yvonne! Getting help is a sign of strength and not of weakness. Sadly, there are so many that have succumbed to this struggle. If this helps just one person, then it’ll make a difference.