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Here’s How I Cope with My Overlapping Anxiety and Depression

Living with both anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming, but I've learned that tackling one issue at a time often brings relief to both. Here are some simple strategies that help me manage the chaos.

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Ask the Expert: How Does Social Isolation Affect Health, and How Do We Reconnect?

Loneliness and isolation can significantly affect overall health. Dr. Yusuf Ransome shares his perspective and research on how pursuing social connections can positively drive mental and physical well-being.

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How the ‘Let Them’ Theory Brings Me Peace with Chronic Illness

After over a decade of living with chronic illness, I’ve learned that not everyone will understand — and they don’t have to. The “Let Them” theory helped me reclaim my energy and protect my well-being without apology.

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Things My Healthy Self Wants My Depressed Self to Know

After a tough depressive episode, I took note of what helps most — coping skills, treatment options, and the support system that reminds me I’m not alone. Here’s what my healthy self wants to remember next time.

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Am I Doing Therapy Right?

Many of us overthink what to say or how to make the most of each session. But real growth happens when we stop trying to perfect the process and simply show up as we are.

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Women Shouldn’t Be the Wild Card in Health Research: How You Can Help

The lack of representation in clinical trials has led to negative outcomes when it comes to women's health. But we can be part of changing that.

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I’m Not Just Symptoms and Stats: The Importance of a Doctor Who Can See You

We asked Bezzy members if they’ve ever felt like a doctor treated them differently because of their identity. Here's what they said.

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This Game Wasn’t Built for Women (Here’s How to Play Anyway)

Women living with chronic conditions are at a double disadvantage, as the system isn't designed to recognize their unique needs. Here's why — and what you can do about it.

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Beware Inspiration Porn: Disability Isn’t a Tragedy or Triumph — It Just Is

You've seen those pictures of a person in a wheelchair playing a sport with the caption "What's your excuse?" Those images and other media are prime examples of what is referred to as "inspiration porn." Learn more here.

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My Personal Journey Accepting Medication for My Mental Health

This is my journey navigating the ups and downs of medication — resisting it, accepting it, and finally finding what works.

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I’m Depressed — but Can Anyone Else See It?

Depression isn’t obvious. I may seem fine on the outside, but inside, I’m fighting to hold it together. Here’s what it’s like to struggle silently while trying to keep up with everyday life.

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How to Chill Before a Medical Procedure

If you’re feeling anxious or stressed about an upcoming appointment or procedure, try these tips.

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Comparing Media Representations of Therapy to My Real Life Experience

Media often misrepresents therapists, but my experiences with long-term therapy prove that true therapists offer compassionate care, healthy boundaries, and effective support for mental health challenges.

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Do I Have Depression If Sometimes I’m Happy?

Depression doesn’t mean feeling sad all the time — you can still experience other emotions, including happiness, while living with it.

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The Power of Learning to Accept Our Labels

Being able to label your symptoms can help you to get the care that you need, both for your physical and mental well being.

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Avoiding Appointments and Dreading the Doctor? Here’s What Has Helped Me

I've spent years managing my feelings around doctors and hospitals. Check out my tips along with advice from experts.

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I Tried Gratitude Journaling — Here’s How It Affected My Depression

Gratitude journaling has helped me manage negative thought spirals, find meaning in daily moments, and build a more balanced emotional life.

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Depression Made Every Decision Feel Overwhelming — Here’s How I Took Back Control

Depression made every decision feel impossible, but through therapy and small steps, I learned to trust myself again. Here’s how I regained confidence in my choices.

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It’s My Pity Party, and I Can Cry, Scream, or Throw Things If I Want To

When the effects of my chronic illness feel particularly overwhelming, I throw myself a pity party. I take 20 minutes to cry, scream, and wallow. And then I move on. Here’s how they might help you, too.

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How I Realized My ‘Menopause’ Was Just the Wrong Medication

I was convinced menopause had arrived early — until a medication switch revealed the truth. This is my journey through misdiagnosed symptoms, frustration, and, finally, relief.

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My Experience with Emotional Numbness and Depression

Emotional numbness can be a challenging symptom to navigate, offering protection from the pain of depression while simultaneously stealing joy and hindering meaningful connection.

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An Open Letter: The 2 Words Not to Say to Someone with Chronic Illness

This open letter explains that the words “Feel better” can sting when said to a person with multiple sclerosis (MS) or another chronic illness. This phrase does not acknowledge the condition’s permanence or often invisible symptoms and can leave the person you’re trying to help feeling worse.

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Is It an Off Day or a Depressive Episode? 

Knowing the difference between an off day and a depressive episode can help you stay grounded and get the right support when living with chronic depression.

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Insights and Tips from My Journey Tapering Off Zoloft

Tapering off antidepressants can be an uncomfortable journey marked by mood swings and physical discomfort. Discover practical tips to ease the process as you regain balance.

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Shop Small and Spoonie-Owned: Here’s Where to Start

Discover the resilience and creativity behind these incredible businesses run by individuals living with chronic illnesses.

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Here’s Why You Should Stop Masking Your Symptoms — and How to Do It

Hiding your depression behind a mask is draining and unsustainable. Learn how to embrace your vulnerability and redirect the energy spent hiding your pain toward recovery.

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Is Major Depressive Disorder a Disability?

Wondering if major depressive disorder qualifies as a disability? This guide covers the criteria, how to file a claim, potential benefits, and more.

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Living with Chronic Illness? Artificial Intelligence May Be Your New Ally

Artificial intelligence could help to make healthcare more equitable and inclusive. Read on to discover what this could mean for chronic illness care.

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Getting Beyond the ‘It’s Not Fair’ of Chronic Illness

While I often find myself feeling down about why I am the one managing several chronic conditions, I find that a few things can help me break the "it's not fair" cycle I get caught up in.

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Is Self-Diagnosing Depression a Valid Approach?

Self-diagnosing depression gave me a starting point on my mental health journey, but it wasn’t the whole answer. Experts weigh in on the benefits, the risks, and what you should know.

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How Self-Blame Keeps Me Stuck in My Depression

Blaming myself for what I couldn’t control kept me trapped in a cycle of guilt and despair. This is my story of breaking free from this harmful habit and rebuilding my self-worth.

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Feeling the Stigma Around Mental Health vs. Physical Health in the Emergency Room

Patients with mental health emergencies often face stigma and less compassion in the ER compared to those with physical conditions. Read on for a personal perspective on the pressing need for equal supportive care for all.

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Your Story, Your Rules: Choosing How Much You Share

I was once an open book about my chronic illness on social media. But then I felt like I wanted to close that chapter for good. Here's why I now share my stories in moderation.

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How Long Do Manic Episodes Last?

Manic episodes involve intense surges in mood and energy, often lasting about a week, though duration, severity, and specific symptoms can vary. Staying consistent with treatment is essential for quicker recovery.

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When an Invisible Illness Turns Visible: The Challenges and Surprises of Being Seen

I've previously advocated for my invisible illness to be seen. As my symptoms have progressed and become more visible, I've sometimes found myself longing for it to be invisible again. Here's how I've navigated this change.

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Depression Left Me Apathetic — and It Might’ve Been Exactly What My Career Needed

Normally, my productivity is constantly sidetracked by the lure of new, exciting projects. But when depression dulled my interest in almost everything, it unexpectedly allowed me to focus deeply on my career and make progress I’d never achieved before.

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Surviving the Holidays: How I Find Strength After Losing My Son

Thanksgiving and Christmas once filled me with joy, but that changed after I lost my son during the holiday season. Though the pain remains, I've found ways to put my mental health first during these challenging months.

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I Went All In on Alkaline Products to Go Acid-Free ... Here’s What Happened

I was influenced by social media to try alkaline supplements. After a trip (or two) to the hospital, and several surgeries later, I've learned the hard way about the dangers of misinformation.

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How Orgasms Managed My Depression — Until They Didn’t

Sexual pleasure brings a surge of dopamine, offering temporary relief from the weight of my depression. But what started as a quick fix soon spiraled into an unhealthy dependency, ultimately hindering my path to healing.

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3 Misleading Portrayals of Legit Therapies in Pop Culture

Hospitalization, electroconvulsive ("shock") therapy, and hypnotherapy are often dramatized and misrepresented in the media. Hopefully, these personal accounts and research can help clarify the reality of these interventions and disprove any misleading information.

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Why Can’t I Stop Picking My Skin?

Dermatillomania, a compulsive skin-picking disorder, is rarely discussed but often linked to anxiety and depression. If you're struggling to manage this behavior, these tips can offer practical ways to help resist the urge and regain control.

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Truth or Hype? How to Spot Health Misinformation

False health claims are out there, but you can sharpen your spidey sense so you don't fall for the fictions.

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Facing My Fears: What I Learned When the ‘Natural Cures’ Didn’t Work

I’m the type of person who fell for the promises of natural things curing my condition. I tried “cures” advertised on the internet because I was terrified of starting medication. Here’s what I learned.

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Finding Strength for My Health Journey in the Grief of My Friend

Even when grief feels overwhelming and unbearable, it can still teach us some powerful lessons. Through loss, I’ve found more value in my own life and mental health and learned to not take anything for granted, even in my darkest moments.

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9 Things I Took for Granted Before Chronic Illness

When you’re healthy, you don’t think twice about enjoying a pain-free day or spontaneously staying over at a friend’s house. But with chronic illness, these simple pleasures become symbols of freedom — things you once took for granted and never thought you’d lose.

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The Psychology of Misinformation: Why We Buy into BS

The internet means everything is at our fingertips, even misinformation. Here's why it spreads, plus how to protect yourself and your community.

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Am I Really Feeling Better?

Experiencing relief after years of chronic depression can feel both unfamiliar and unsettling, like waiting for the other shoe to drop. In this personal article, I share tips that have improved my well-being and boosted my confidence in facing future mental health challenges.

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I Chose to Live — and So Can You

I’ll never forget the text message that stopped me on the brink of suicide. But ultimately, it was my inner strength and my decision to fight that truly saved my life.

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My Journey Through Medication-Induced Weight Gain

Managing body changes caused by medication can be both challenging and emotionally taxing. Read on for a personal story navigating this difficult experience and finding a path toward acceptance and wellness.

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Medications Can Be a Hard Pill to Swallow Amidst Pressures to Heal Naturally

Pressures to “go the natural route” can feel overwhelming when living with chronic illness. Here’s why this can be dangerous.

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Joking About My Mental Health: A Defense Mechanism or a Cry for Help?

While laughter can offer temporary relief, it often acts more like a Band-Aid than a cure. Here, I reflect on the complex relationship between comedy and mental health, exploring whether humor helps or hinders true emotional healing.

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How I Found Hope Again in My Long-Term Depression

For years, my mental health challenges have led to repeated hospitalizations and a loss of hope. This article explores my journey through the most challenging moments and how the support of a therapist can reignite motivation and foster recovery.

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How Sound Became My Security Blanket Against Depression

While sound can provide temporary relief from your thoughts and emotions, healthier long-term strategies are essential. Here's one perspective on the pros and cons of using media as a coping mechanism, with advice for curating habits that support mental well-being.

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How I Managed the Job Search While Coping with Depression

Navigating the job search can be a daunting experience, especially when dealing with the added weight of depression. Discover practical tips and techniques to maintain a positive outlook, manage stress, and support your mental health throughout your job hunting journey.

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Am I Overidentifying with My Chronic Illness?

My illness is not my identity. Here's how I'm working to decouple them.

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My Journey Learning to Overcome the Challenges of Morning Depression

Struggling with morning depression can feel like an endless battle. Discover practical tips and personal insights on how creating a routine, eating well, and exercising can transform your mornings.

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Feeling Numb? How Depression Affects Your Emotions and What to Do About It

Feeling emotionally disconnected? Numbness is a perplexing symptom of depression. Learn what this can look like, underlying causes, and strategies to regain your emotional vitality.

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I’m a Yoga Teacher Who Quit Yoga When I Developed a Chronic Illness: Here’s Why

I had to mourn the things my body could no longer do, but I found a different kind of strength in listening to my needs.

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Reflecting on the Connection Between My Depression and Passion for Writing

Read on for a personal account about the intricate relationship between depression and creativity. Discover how deep emotions can both hinder and enhance artistic expression, and how writing can serve as a therapeutic outlet during challenging times.

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How Caring for My Rescue Dog Affects My Depression

Owning a pet can be a complicated experience when living with a mental health condition. Here's a candid account of the ups and downs that can come with the responsibility of caring for a pet.

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Finding My People and Protecting My Boundaries in the Chronic Illness Community

The chronic illness community brought me back to life, but I had to learn to navigate it's darker side.

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CBT Can Be Great — but It Didn’t Cure My Depression

Cognitive behavioral therapy helped me manage my depression, but it wasn’t enough during my darkest moments. Join me as I share my journey, discovering that true healing sometimes requires more than just one approach.

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Learning to Take Responsibility for Your Behavior — Even When You’re Hurting

Being responsible for your behaviors, even when you're depressed, helps maintain trust and healthy relationships with others. Read on for a personal perspective on how accountability can improve depression management and overall well-being.

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Is Depression Affecting My Sex Drive?

If you're experiencing low libido, you're not alone. Depression symptoms, medications, and physiological changes can all contribute to changes in your sex life. Read on to better understand the links and get some tips to help cope.

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It Happened to Me: A HIPAA Violation

HIPAA should protect your health information. Here's my experience of a HIPAA violation while receiving home healthcare.

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Why Being a ‘Good Patient’ Could Be Harmful to Your Health

Good patient syndrome can be a response to trauma. Those of us with chronic illnesses may exhibit people-pleasing behaviors to stay on doctors’ good sides, but that can ultimately endanger our health.

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How I’m Coping with My Transition to a New Therapist

Deciding to transition to a different therapist can be a difficult and stressful decision. Focusing on future healing, utilizing available resources, and receiving guidance from your current therapist can help you navigate the process.

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My Reflection on a Poem About Depression and the Power of Time

In the depths of depression’s despair, hopelessness can take over. This article reflects on a poignant and relatable poem that illustrates the journey from despair to hope and the resilience found in simply enduring.

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Love, Connection, and Chronic Illness: A Dating App Designed for Us

Dating with chronic illness can involve uncomfortable conversations. This app can make it easier.

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How to Find Control When It Feels Like Your Chronic Illness Makes All the Rules

It can easily feel like chronic illness makes all the rules. Here’s how I found control.

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Figuring Out Life with Multiple Chronic Illnesses: How I Did It

Take it from me, pacing yourself is key.

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I Want to Start Meditating, but My Mental Health Keeps Getting in the Way

There are countless suggestions out there to help you manage your mental health. But sometimes, the reality of depression means lacking the energy to try them.

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How to Avoid the Trap of Overidentifying with Your Mental Health Condition

A mental health diagnosis can be a validating and important step in your healing journey. But be careful not to let these labels overshadow other valuable parts of yourself.

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My Experience Navigating the Ups and Downs of Drinking with Depression

While my journey hasn't been perfect, I'm proud of the transformation I've made in establishing a healthier relationship with alcohol.

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When Your Depression Feels Invisible to Others — Even Your Family

When it comes to mental health, it can be difficult to open up to your family. Read on for reasons why you might be hiding your depression and how to overcome this obstacle.

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Overcoming My Most Dangerous Coping Mechanism: Suicidal Ideation

Death used to feel like a comforting option — an escape route I could always take. Breaking out of this thought pattern has allowed me to gain control over my life again.

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My Experience Trying to Cover Up My Depression at Work

Mental health conditions can often go unnoticed in professional environments, but that doesn’t mean that more support isn’t necessary.

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Dismantling the ‘Laziness Lie’ About Depression

For various historical and social reasons, symptoms of depression are often dismissed as laziness. Read on to better understand this damaging stigma and how to combat it.

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10 Ways to Find Support When You Live Alone with Chronic Illness

Living alone with a condition can be challenging, but there are people who want to help.

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How Mainstream Brands Are Making Furniture Accessible for All

From beauty to fashion, industries have begun to make their products more inclusive. But what about furniture?

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The Importance of Being Honest with Your Therapist

Being honest in therapy only increases their ability to help you. Here's why, and some tips to help you open up.

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This Wise Little Narwhal Has Something to Teach Us All About Invisible Illness

Migraine representation in children's books is important for everyone, not just kids.

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Am I Ghosting People Because I’m Depressed?

Depressive symptoms may increase your likelihood of avoiding certain social interactions. Read on to learn why people ghost, tips for healthier communication, and what to do if you've been ghosted.

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Can Psychedelics Help Treat Depression?

Recently, nontraditional drugs like psilocybin mushrooms and MDMA have been considered for mental health treatment. Here's what to know about the research, legal status, and how they work with depression.

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How to Adapt to Life with an Incurable Condition

When we accept the painful parts of life, it can become more beautiful.

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Can I Use Weed When I’m on Antidepressants?

Mixing marijuana and antidepressants might interfere with the medication's effects. Read on to learn how they interact and some answers to common questions about cannabis and depression.

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You're Not Broken, Just a Little Bent and Other Insights from Ambassador Kelley

Meet Ambassador Kelley and learn about his journey with managing depression, from the railroads to the chat rooms.

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Why Do I Feel Sad After the Holidays?

Feeling down after the holidays is normal and can be a result of various things. Read on for some contributing factors and how to better manage them.

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My Experience Moving Out and Living Alone with Depression 

When managing a mental health condition, living alone can be nerve-wracking. With these tips, I've been able to stay safe and enjoy the freedom of my new independence.

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Overcoming the Detrimental Stigma of Self-Harm and Finding Healing

The attention-seeking stigma around self-harm might be preventing people from realizing how dominating and consuming this behavior can really be.

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Why Can’t I Stop Crying?

Anxiety and depression are frequently associated with crying, but there are many other potential causes. Read on to learn what might be causing your tears and some tips that can help.

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5 Promises I Made to Myself and How They’ve Changed

Some promises helped, but most had to change for me to live well with rheumatoid arthritis. Here's why and what they mean to me now.

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I Stopped Going to Therapy — What Now?

You might be thinking about ending your sessions for many reasons. Read on to learn how I’ve coped and a new perspective that’s brought me some comfort.

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How Can I Ask for Help with My Depression?

If you're unsure where to find help, or how to even ask for it, read on to gain some tips and resources for both urgent and ongoing support.

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How to Respond to Chronic Illness Comments During the Holidays

These funny or serious responses can help combat well-intentioned yet sometimes misguided comments.

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11 Things I’m Thankful for Amidst My Depression

It can be difficult to feel grateful amidst your depression. This list helps me remember all the positives in my life.

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Help! What’s the Difference Between All These Therapy Degrees?

When choosing a therapist, all the various credentials can get confusing. Here's a guide to help clarify and make your search a bit easier.

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The Truth About Chronic Illness and Fatigue

Fatigue is common in those living with chronic illnesses. But this symptom is often treated as an afterthought. Here's what you should know and what might help.

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What Twitter’s Downfall Means for Chronic Condition Communities

The chronic condition community on Twitter has changed my life. I'm worried about what will happen without it.

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7 Tips for Finding a Mental-Health-Friendly College

When living with depression, attending a supportive college is important. Available resources and policies are just some of the things to consider in your search.

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How Social Media Impacts My Mental Health

Social media has its pros and cons. Here’s how I benefit, struggle, and manage my use to protect my well-being.

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Why Finding a Therapist Is Worth the Time, Price, and Process

There can be various barriers to getting therapy. Here are some ways to overcome them so you can get the help you deserve.

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Are We Weaponizing Therapy-Speak?

Terms from therapy often pop up in our everyday language. Here’s why this is something to be cautious about.

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6 Celebrities Who Openly Shared Their Experiences with Depression

In the limelight it could be easy to hide the truth, but these celebs have been honest about their depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation to encourage others to seek help.

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Losing My Best Friend to Suicide

As someone living with severe depression myself, experiencing this form of loss had a powerful impact on my mental health journey.

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Why Is My Depression Worse in the Morning?

Morning depression is a very common symptom of depression. Here’s what may cause it, and some tips to help cope.

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Seeking New Friendships When You're Depressed

Depression and adulthood itself can make it hard to meet new people. Here's what I've tried and plan to try to create more connections in my life.

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Feeling Unseen and Unheard: Is This Medical Gaslighting or Something Else?

Not feeling fully supported in healthcare settings can be common. It's important to know why you might be feeling this way — whether from medical gaslighting or from limited medical resources — and what you can do about it.

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What to Expect from a Partial Hospitalization Program

When starting a new treatment, the unknown can be the most scary. Here are the details of my experience, including the good, the bad, and some tips I learned along the way.

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Grieving What I Can’t Do with a Mental Health Condition

Living with a chronic mental health condition can require some major life adjustments. Here's how I learned to celebrate the life I live and continue to cope with the changes.

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Summer Sadness — Just as Real as the Winter Blues

Sometimes it feels like warm weather is supposed to cure all our issues. But when those sunny months just don't feel so sunny — know that you're not alone.

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Unwanted, Intrusive Thoughts: My Journey Back to Myself

Having unwelcome, disturbing thoughts can be an unnerving experience. Here is my story — and some tips for coping— to help you feel less alone.

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What Happened When I Told My Social Worker I Was Suicidal

There were many reasons why I was afraid to speak up. But being honest wasn't as scary as I thought — and it saved my life.

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I’m Scared About Life Without My Therapist — And This Is How I Cope

Stepping away from your therapist can be nerve-wracking for many reasons. But with a shift of perspective, you'll see that it doesn't have to be so daunting.

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Am I Oversharing? 8 Tips for Navigating Social Media with a Chronic Illness

There are no perfect answers for how much to share and how much to hold back, but there are guidelines that might help you determine the right approach for you.

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What It’s Like Being Chronically Ill in the Time of Wellness

Unsolicited medical advice is exhausting — and sometimes even plain rude. The wellness industry needs to wake up to the realities of living with a chronic illness.

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My Take on Mental Health Challenges in the LGBTQ+ Community

I love being queer. But unfortunately, society doesn't make it easy for us. Here are some of the unique ways our mental health can suffer.

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Mental Health in the Media: Is It ‘Cool’ to Be Depressed?

Talking about mental health is important. But sometimes I wonder if we've taken "normalizing" it too far.

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How Fatigue Changed My Mindset as a Disability Activist

Hustle culture and the pandemic made me hit a breaking point. I was exhausted, but being an activist made me want to fight on. Now, I live by a different mantra.

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My Experience Living with Long-Term Depression

I've struggled with my mental health for at least a decade. Here's an honest account of what that really means.

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6 TV Shows That Accurately Depict Depression

Unfortunately, the media often misrepresents mental health disorders. Here are some shows that have left me feeling seen and understood.

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My Experience Navigating a Crisis and Accepting More Care

Going to the hospital for your mental health can be scary. But over the years, I’ve learned about my options, what to expect, and how important it is to get the help I need.

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My Experience Being in a New Country with Depression

Being open about mental health is very important to me. In the UK, I found the differences around this conversation to be an unexpected challenge.

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Validation as a Healing Tool for Your Trauma

Trauma looks different for everyone, and sometimes we don't even recognize our own. Learning to do so is important and is one of the first steps toward healing.

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Ableist Language in Pop Culture and How It Affects People with Chronic Illness

Ableism and ableist language are all too common, especially in pop culture. Learn how to recognize this language and ways to be more mindful of the words you choose.

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Things to Remember When You Feel Behind on Your Resolutions

Coming up with new resolutions can feel overwhelming when you aren’t where you want to be with the last set. Here are some ways to help you take off the pressure and remember the purpose of it all.

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Community Conversations: Bezzy Depression Members Share Their Go-To Low-Effort Meals

When you're living with depression, making meals and eating can feel like too much effort. Here are Bezzy Depression Community members' tips for snacks and meals during depressive episodes.

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What I Learned in My Intensive Outpatient Program

IOPs are another form of support that might be able to give you the environment and skills you need for healing while living with depression, anxiety, or substance use.

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Blues Qs: I’m Suicidal — But I’m Too Scared to Call a Hotline

Blues Qs: I’m Suicidal — But I’m Too Scared to Call a Hotline

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Blues Qs: Can Depression Cause Chronic Pain?

Blues Qs: Can Depression Cause Chronic Pain?

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Feeling Thankful When You Aren’t Quite Where You Want to Be in Life

Life can be full of disappointments, and sometimes it's hard to turn on the "I'm grateful" switch for Thanksgiving. Making lists, getting fresh air, and finding a "GB" are some of the ways you can navigate these feelings.

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Blues Qs: Am I Lazy, Depressed, ADHD, or all of the Above?

With the right support and diagnoses, both ADHD and depression are treatable. But do you have one — or both?

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What It’s Like Having Depression as a Transgender Person

While my mental health and gender identity are inherently connected, it's important to note how they are separate, too.

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4 Things I Wish People Knew About Depression

Depression is so much more than "being sad." As someone living with depression, here are some things I wish more people understood.

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How to Prevent Depression from Being Your Identity

Having depression can feel like it defines your life. It's important to find ways to remind yourself who you are outside of your mental illness.

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Blues Qs: I Have Depression: Is It a Bad Time to Get a Pet?

Blues Qs: I Have Depression: Is It a Bad Time to Get a Pet?

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How I Cope with Suicidal Ideations

Suicidal ideation and suicidal intent are two different things. It's important to know the distinction and how to respond to them both.

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The Importance of Depression Validation

Being depressed is not a decision or choice. Regardless of your circumstances, your experience with depression is valid and worthy of support.

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My Journey to Becoming a Chronic Illness Advocate on Social Media

Writer Nia G. discusses her journey to becoming a social media advocate after her chronic illness diagnoses.

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What the Overturning of Roe v. Wade Means for the Chronically Ill and Disabled Communities

The court’s decision affects all Americans, but disabled, chronically ill, and disadvantaged people will be disproportionately affected. They face healthcare inequities, poverty, and more.

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Bezzy Depression Offers Connection, Support, and Understanding for People Living with Clinical Depression

Curious about what the Bezzy Depression Community has to offer? The platform provides people struggling with depression with an opportunity for open discussion and connection.

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Recognizing Signs of Medical Trauma When You Live with a Chronic Condition

Medical trauma is real but sometimes it can be hard to recognize. If you live with a chronic condition it is especially important to be aware of how traumatic medical scenarios can have lasting effects. If you have experienced medical trauma, it is important to know you are not alone.

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My Experience Having ECT for Depression

It wasn’t like the movies. ECT didn’t ‘fry my brain’ — it saved my life.

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I Was Nervous About Trying Zoloft, But It Changed My Life for the Better

Despite my misgivings about Big Pharma, my depression symptoms improved dramatically once I gave myself permission to try an antidepressant.

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Please Stop Thinking My High-Functioning Depression Makes Me Lazy

I'm a happy mom, wife, and professional. What you don't know is that I struggle with depression, too.

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Living with Clinical Depression: Mahevash's Story

Mahevash Shaikh has been living with depression since she was 13. Since then, she has started a blog to help others living with mental health issues.

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I’m Depressed but My Parents Don’t Believe I Need a Therapist

"How can I get them to understand that this is serious?"

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This Is What It’s Like to Go to Work as a Queer Person with Mental Illness

Can you imagine going to work as a watered-down version of yourself? This is a reality for many in the LGBTQ+ community. When it comes to employment, they can face higher rates of discrimination. In an intimate portrait series, we uncovered what the work-life balance reality is like for queer people.

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10 Ways to Reach Out in a Mental Health Crisis

The definitive guide to speaking up about the unspeakable and seeking help during a mental health crisis.

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Postpartum PTSD Is Real. I Should Know — I’ve Lived It

Something as simple as a yoga pose was enough to send me into a flashback.

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When You Don’t Want to Be Here, but You’re Too Afraid to Die

Why continue living if I didn’t actually feel I was alive?

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What’s It Like to Be Suicidal? This Is My Experience and How I Got Through It

One writer shares her experience with suicidal thoughts and the coping tools that have helped save her life.

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Relapse Happens with Depression. So Why Aren’t We Talking About It?

What people don’t learn when they’re told about depression is what it’s actually like to receive treatment — and that it’s a treatment that has to be ongoing for it to work. Here’s why YouTuber Marina Watanabe wants to talk about depression relapse.

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It Took Me Six Years to Realize My Anger Was Depression

It took a long time for me to realize the role anger has in depression because the stereotype of depression is sadness. But mental illness is more complex than one emotion. Here’s how I realized how badly anger and depression affected my mental health and why it’s a relief to know they’re connected.

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8 Things People with High Functioning Depression Want You to Know

It can be difficult to spot someone with high functioning depression. That’s because they often appear completely fine on the outside. Here’s what people with high functioning depression want you to know.

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If You Stick Around: A Letter to Those Wanting to Leave This Life

If you're thinking about suicide, here's why you should stick around. It can, and will, get better.

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Why Traveling Isn't Going to Cure Your Depression

Getting out into the world may sound like a good idea for tackling depression, but it isn't. In fact, it can make things worse.

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These Stunning Photos Reveal the Hidden Side of Depression

Mental illness can be invisible, but it can be visual, too. Here are 8 photographs of what feelings of turmoil may look like.

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I’m Not Sad, Lazy, or Nonreligious: How to Identify Signs of Depression

Ever since I came out to my family about my depression and anxiety a year ago, I never fail to forget the struggle it took to get them to accept my illness.