Closer to Fine: A Diagnosis That Never DisappearsI knew I had severe mental health issues before I knew that major depressive disorder (MDD) existed. When I was a newly minted teenager in 2014, I started noticing some...Reactions0reactions
5 Ways I Prioritize My Well-being With Major Depressive DisorderI have battled major depressive disorder, known as MDD, for years. It is a daily challenge affecting everything, from relationships to sleep to productivity. With this diagnosis, I have learned...Reactions0reactions
6 Things Not to Say to Someone with DepressionLike with any illness, it is difficult for people to always know the "right" thing to say. So how about we flip things around and focus on the not-so-helpful words...Reactions0reactions
Depressed MomI've had depression and anxiety since I was a teenager, so I knew as I was contemplating motherhood, I would have to make adjustments. I thought I was ready. I...Reactions0reactions
The 2024 Social Health Awards ProgramEditorial Note: Nominations for 2024 are now closed. We are very excited to announce the launch of the 2024 Social Health Awards program! The Social Health Awards is an awards...Reactions0reactions
Living With Treatment-Resistant DepressionWhen I was first diagnosed with depression almost 20 years ago, I thought it was no big deal. Of course, I was 20 years old and in college, so what...Reactions0reactions
Depression and Identifying as AsexualThe first time I thought about my sexuality was during my first year in high school. I was pitching on the softball team and about half the girls on the...Reactions0reactions
Unraveling the Layers of Mental Health StigmaWhile several health conditions face problems related to stigma, the stigma around individuals with mental health conditions is some of the most prominent. Those of us living with depression have...Reactions0reactions
A Guy With Depression…In my work as an independent consultant, I have a love-hate relationship to LinkedIn. On the one hand, it feels like a giant exercise in futility, with millions of frantic...Reactions0reactions
How Anorexia Feeds DepressionContent Note: This article describes eating disorder thoughts, behaviors, and symptoms. It also mentions sexual abuse. If you or a loved one are struggling, consider reading our mental health resources...Reactions0reactions
Major Depression's Cousin: High-Functioning DepressionThe majority of my depressive episodes have been severe major depressive episodes, in which I'm barely able to function, if at all. Almost all of them are accompanied by suicidal...Reactions0reactions
World Behind Locked Doors: My First HospitalizationI awoke as the sun was rising, groggy and confused. In the next moment, I recalled what I had done just hours ago. I'd swallowed an entire bottle of pills...Reactions0reactions
Like Mother, Like Daughter: My Depression DiagnosisI have not always felt like Eeyore, Winnie-the-Pooh's depressed friend. But 2023 was a rough year for me and I’m glad to see it in the rear-view mirror. That is...Reactions0reactions
My Depression's InsomniaYet again, I find myself in my recliner instead of in my bed. My dogs have faithfully followed me to the living room and are curled up under my giant...Reactions0reactions
New Year, Same MeI don't make New Year's resolutions. (But if you do, I think that’s great!) When I do, it makes me feel bad because of the "New Year, New Me" ideology...Reactions0reactions
Want to Write for Us?We are currently not accepting applications for new writers. The Social Health Network application form has now been closed. Thank you for your interest, and we will update this page...Reactions0reactions
Depression Took Hold of My Career – And My LifeContent Note: This article describes suicide and suicidal thoughts. If you or a loved one are struggling, consider reading our mental health resources page. Having been diagnosed with anorexia and...Reactions0reactions
The Depression Takes Root: Adolescence and My 20sContent Note: This article describes suicide and self-harm. If you or a loved one are struggling, consider reading our mental health resources page. I started smoking pot at 14 with...Reactions0reactions
How Pets Help Me Live With DepressionDepression has a way of making those living with it feel completely alone. Additionally, isolation has a way of increasing the risk of depression. It can be a very vicious...Reactions0reactions
Coping With Depression During the HolidaysI love the holiday season. I'm one of those moms who loves to move her kids' Elf of the Shelf buddies and think of all kinds of antics. I love...Reactions0reactions