A Short Read on an Unfortunate Life

By Lea Sharma

I think I was in class 5th when I realized that I was suffering from depression. Looking back, it surprises me just how young I was, to be suffering from such a dangerous disorder.

But I do realize the reason for that now. My life, my circumstances were what forced me to grow up faster than I should have, and this was the consequence.

I realize now that I underestimated depression. I miscalculated the effect it would have on my life, its ability to consume every fiber of my being until it was too late to do anything.

My life, my experiences, my actions, were all the ingredients to a deadly, addicting recipe, which plunged my existence into an abyss I couldn't get out of.

But today, I'm proud to say that I'm a survivor of depression. I still have an anxiety disorder, get panic attacks, but I know I'm in a much better place now than I was before. The fact that I'm even sharing my story is a testament to that.

I had depression for about 3-4 years. Professional help was something that I, unfortunately, couldn't get, because "What would people say," the excuse of an entire generation, maybe more.

But I know I'm still reeling from the effects of trying my hardest to get out of it, with whatever help I got. So I urge whoever reads this, if you're suffering from depression, anxiety, or any Mental Disorder, please, please, get help.

I've lost so many people I knew to this, and for the past 3 years, I've done my level best, to ensure this doesn't happen again.

~END~

I debated sharing the entirety of my experience for this campaign but decided against it. It's honestly a very, well, *depressing* story, and I'm not sure I'm comfortable with sharing it all just yet. I just want to give a small message, a gentle reminder to whoever reads this, that they aren't alone, and that it is never too late to get help.

This work is written by LeaSharma
Plz send your entries asap.