Is depression a choice? Many Africans tend to ignore depression and refer to it as a white people’s disease. As much as we may want to neglect that the problem stills stands and it is very crucial that our society stop to victimize people with depression because already they have their own personal battles they are fighting. The main poison is that depression in African society is often down played. Recently a teen committed suicide just because of people’s ignorance when she reached out. The question that troubles me is how many go through this ordeal unnoticed? Think people!
Let’s stop this ‘depression is a sign of weakness’ nonsense and help those struggling with depression. Apparently many Africans think it is all an act for attention but seriously people stop fussing around and get real. Ridiculing will not help but will actually make things worse. It has become a matter of urgency and every one should find it their responsibility to help our fellow brothers or sisters. Just listening and your company can change someone’s life and mental condition. The stigma in African communities should change, it grooms people with a ‘tough love’ approach to depression. It is toxic, let’s be honest it is not as simple as many may assume and many people are dying in silence. C’mon, let’s face the music depression is real and if one doesn’t get help it will kill them slowly inside worse off with community superstitions also adds on to their struggle.
I don’t know if it is a African thing or what but most of our elders have strong beliefs that as long someone is physically fit especially man they are fine. If you grew up in a family with deep African roots you will get what I’m saying, man are not allowed to feel such because it is seen as a sign of weakness and befitting for man. News flash as human beings we deal with so much and sometimes you just break, it is human and someone shouldn’t be ridiculed for acting and behaving like a human. What matters here and the main agenda is to rule out this vile behavior among most African of seeing mental health issues as an evil spirit and face reality.
For all people out there living with depression it is not too late, take one day at a time and get help. As the saying goes a problem shared is a problem shared, don’t go unnoticed make a move. The first step starts with you!!
Munashe Chakaonda
