Just like the opposite of addiction is not sobriety but connection, so the opposite of depression is not happiness but vitality.

Because that is what most depression saps out of people - the vitality to do things, to live life, and to give your own life meaning and the strength to forge ahead.

Sometimes people can handle depression on their own. Most of the time, however, help of some sort is needed. Never be afraid or let yourself be shamed for reaching out or accepting help, because we all need help once in a while. As the Good Captain once said, “It is possible to commit no mistakes and still lose. That is not a weakness. That is life.”

And while uncultivated ignorance can still be educated away, beware cultivated ignorance – these people are maliciously ignorant, and are intentionally trying to hurt you.