I suffer from mild depression – self diagnosed. And I used to think that traveling would get rid of it.
Here’s the thing – really, there are 2 issues for me – both my cultural identity and the need to ‘get away’ impact how I dealt with the disease. As someone who is much aligned with her culture, I tie one with the other, especially since moving back home, to Borikén (and international travel is on hold).
In my culture, we enjoy large gatherings with friends, family, neighbors. Many of us are musically inclined, whether it’s dancing or playing an instrument (or both). We are affable people and enjoying sharing quality time with those who matter to us. All of this means that sometimes folks don’t understand what it means to suffer from depression. They think it’s just a “phase” you’ll get over or that going to a family event, party or other festivity will “cure” you.
But what they don’t realize is that even mild depression is not something that you “get over.” Here’s where I’m talking to those in my circle, in hopes they will understand how they can help.
Depression isn’t something you magically ‘get over.’
I’m no medical profession, but I do know ways to educate my peeps.
- Measure your words – saying “you’ll be ok” is more harmful
- Be receptive, not judgmental – ask if they want your thoughts
- Switch gears – avoid changing the subject, this is invalidating
The Passport
I used to go on international treks because I needed to get away from my corporate life back in New York City. That was several years back, and in hindsight I now understand what I was doing.
Of course, I was excited to see other countries, learn about their cultures, art, food and way of life. But there was more – I was in ‘escape’ mode. On the one hand, I wanted to get away from the hum-drum of my existence back in The Big Apple. On the other hand, I was simply looking for another avenue to set my depression aside.
As someone who is anti-pharmaceutical as a ‘cure-all,’ I don’t believe in taking drugs for my situation. And, if I’m going to consume something to calm me, it would be to smoke a little weed because it’s natural! Besides, I’m working to counter my mild depression with:
- Writing – this post is one therapeutic form
- Poetry – another creative outlet (see point above)
- Nature – being by the ocean, river, palm trees
- Meditation & Yoga – to calm the mind
