There is nothing worse than feeling like a complete utter failure, crying your eyes out, and then a well-intentioned person comes along and says something that, to your ears, sounds like: “You were right! You are, in fact, a loser.” Good intentions or not, the wrong words hurt. Awhile back, I published a piece, “10 Things Not to Say to a Depressed Person.” Among the no-no’s were:
- It’s all in your head. You need to think positive.
- You need to get out of yourself and give back to the community.
- Why don’t you try and exercise?
- Shop at Whole Foods and you will feel better.
- Meditation and yoga are all you need.
- Get a new job.
- Are you happy in your relationship?
- You have everything you need to get better.
- Do you WANT to feel better?
- Everyone has problems.
Everyday Health’s Andrea Bledsoe, Ph.D., recently compiled her own list of harmful one-liners to say to persons with bipolar disorder. Continue reading …
