How Does an Introvert Deal with Depression?

My blog on HealthyPlace: Introverts Guide to Coping with Depression

Being introverted means I am the type of person who re-energizes through solitude. Some may think this is weird or a bad thing. It's not. It is just how my brain works - I would much rather hang out with my kids, pup, or a couple close friends than be with a group of people or at a large gathering. Now as I have gotten older, I have become more adaptable to being in large groups and having to hold conversations with others (although I still suck at small talk). However, when I'm done socializing, I'm exhausted! I then need some quiet time or a nap to be functional again. 

Coping with Depression

Check out my blog posts about coping with depression on healthyplace.com

Today, there is still a stigma about depression: "Why can't people just snap out of it?" If it were only that easy! Being diagnosed with a depressive disorder is more than just feeling sad sometimes. First, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a condition that causes a persistently low or depressed mood – not situational sadness or feeling low. Sometimes, it can be triggered, and sometimes, it can be out of the blue. Regardless of how it comes about, MDD affects sleep, appetite, energy, ability to focus, and interest in usually enjoyable things (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). Coping with MDD is multi-faceted. There is not just one solution or magic pill that improves or cures mental health – it is a mixture of things that help people (and me) cope.

Is There Still a Stigma with Mental Health?

The simple answer to this question is: unfortunately, yes. Even in the days of increased awareness due to post-COVID and an increased suicide rate, there is still a stigma against those with mental health disorders – especially in particular communities and occupations.

I watched PBS News Hour the other day, and they had a story about commercial airline pilots and the increased concerns about overtime and declining mental health. The story also mentioned that pilots are not allowed to seek mental health counseling, much less disclose that they are living with depression or anxiety with fear of being let go. It is insanity to me that there are still major occupations that would fire someone based on them wanting to get help! So, instead, the airlines would rather have pilots who are stressed, depressed, and anxious with no coping skills and/or medication to help them stay well. Think about it next time you board a plane... that pilot has probably been overworked and has no way of coping! Does anyone want to go flying??