Dear Society,
The United States is facing an epidemic. An epidemic of missing happiness is happening within this country right now. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 16.7 million adults in the U.S. have had at least one depressive episode. That’s at least 67% of all adults in the U.S. Some of these people must have felt helpless at one point or another. Helplessness, loneliness, they are awful feelings. They can lead to some horrible consequences, such as self-harm, or even worse, suicide. The thought of suicide because someone did not receive the help they needed makes me think: “What could have been done to help them?” The most prominent thing people with depression face is stigma, and social distancing is the most significant form of stigma. But, YOU can do something to help. Offering support to someone with depression when they’re feeling down or alone can go a long way. So next time one of your friends is telling you that they’re feeling down, offer them some support. Be there for your friend in times of need.
Sincerely,
J.L.
