My Experience

[Spencer Nassar]

I found out about MDD a few years ago and was kinda in denial about having it. While my patterns of MDD have been manageable, I’m afraid of falling into old habits. I also feel like even if you have your MDD managed, how do you explain slip ups to people you’ve gotten close to. I guess I’m asking if anyone has found it difficult to love and relate to another person that does not have MDD. Will they always think you’re weird?

[Melanie]

Spencer, 

First of all, thanks for sharing. I'm in the same place as you. I was in denial about having MD for a long time, but I can't deny the fact any longer. I find it so difficult to explain my behavior to the people in my life. My parents know about my MD, but I'm ashamed to talk about it because I feel like a freak, someone no one could possibly understand or accept. Thankfully, my best friend also has MD, and we've grown so much closer because of it. But now I'm finding it harder to relate and love people who can't understand what I go through. 

[Blanca Margatroid]

Hi Spencer!

I must say I have only told my boyfriend about it, since we live together, and he actually doesn't think I'm crazy or anything. But it's something I prefer to keep private, because, unfortunately, most people aren't that understanding.

The thing is, I think that all people are "weird" in someway or another. The people I've met in a really deep way, all have their problems. Maybe they don't have MDD, but they are depressed, or have anxiety, or lead very unfulfilling lives, or get hooked on other stuff. I'm not saying this like it's a good thing or anything, don't get me wrong. But I refuse to believe I am the freak, when everyone has their perks.

What I guess I'm trying to say is that if you surround yourself with understanding people you will feel supported even though they don't experience MDD. I want to be optimistic about that. But yeah, they aren't that easy to find...