I’ll answer the questions I have personal knowledge of. Thanks for being mindful & making this topic.
It 100% takes over your life. Symptoms like:
• Thinking of everything as a chore & not wanting to do them
• Fatigue/not wanting to get out of bed
• Negative outlook on life
Are often regarded by people as ‘lazy’ and ‘pessimistic’.
It’s VERY important to note that people with depression don’t look sad all the time. They can smile, laugh and have fun with others until they’re left alone with their thoughts. You don’t have to look ‘sad’ to be depressed.
People with depression tend to get angry & anxious more easily, as anger issues & anxiety are common manifestations of depression. This doesn’t mean depressed people act like dicks 24/7.
Meditation is a good way. Also listening to calming vids meant for relaxation on Youtube.
Last but not least:
My problem with most Episode authors is that they portray depression/trauma/PTSD as something that can be “saved” and “cured” by a hot LI. Needless to say that’s utter BS. Can these illnesses/disorders be alleviated by the character falling in love and surrounded by positivity? Yes. But they don’t just magically disappear, just like that. It takes a lot of time and effort to combat these illnesses/disorders, usually with professional & medicinal help and I’m talking years of treatment.