I have some questions.

Everything there is normal as long as you don't let it consume you.

I'd like to answer your questions as best as I can , but first know that depression can vary for everyone! Also, there's not really a "normal" when it comes to depression because of the varying symptoms, however some people can experience similar symptoms. So, know that you aren't alone, ok! That's the important part.

1. Is it normal to feel like you have to put up a mask and lie to people about your feelings?

"The Mask" is a very common discussion topic amoungst us with depression and those without as it is hard for others to understand. The mask is something many of us wear as with depression, many times we don't want others to know, usually out of fear that they will not accept our illness for whatever reason. Mental illness has such a negative stigma surrounding it that we feel we'll be outcasted if we express it, therefore we lie about our real emotions and feelings, which in the end only hurts us more. Removing the mask and talking about our real feelings with someone we trust who won't judge us is the best thing you can ever do. Even if they don't understand what we're feeling, most of the time all we ever need is support, and that hug when we arent doing so good.

2. Is it normal to actually believe what you say to people about your "positive" emotions at times?

I think so, yes. Sometimes we act so much that it just seems normal to keep being positive around others all the time. Depression can sometimes fluctuate within a day and allow you to have fun temporarily.

3. Is it normal to go from needing little food to eating tons of food?

Everyone is different in this respect as well. When I was younger I ate my feelings. Now when I'm in a low, I don't eat at all . This varies for everyone but change in appetite is a normal "side affect".

4. Is it normal to feel like you don't have a reason for depression, or to feel like your feelings aren't "right"?

Not everyone has a "reason". Sometimes, it's just with you. Chemical imbalences or genetics can influence depression, and then it doesn't really have an outside "reason". However, a therapist can help get down to the bottom of things and really uncover what may be the true reason as to what triggered the depression. Also, don't feel the emotion aren't "right." There is no right and wrong. Stigma's make it seem that way.

5. Is it normal to not want to seek out help, even though you know you need it?

Reaching out for help is the hardest thing you'll ever do! It's a big big step. Theres many reasons why you may not want to reach out. Like feeling like a burden, speaking about it makes it real, feeling our depression isn't "real", worrying others wont accept us for these feelings, and many more! However, professionals don't judge, they just care. They just want us to get better. So you can feel safe with them. However, reach out only when you feel comfortable. And know that you can do it!

I hope these answers helped you out! I wish you all the best!

1. I sometimes think I should get into acting. My "Oh yes I'm fine thanks!" performances are Oscar worthy!

2. Yup...you convince yourself because you want to believe it.

3. When I'm moderately depressed I eat and eat. As I get more depressed I usually stop eating. Everyone is different but in my experience eating is much affected by depression.

4.When I'm asked why I'm depressed,I could list things like...miscarriages, or I'm worried about money, or because I have MS, or because I'm diabetic. Elephants and tigers dying out, war, my son being bullied at school.. They're all true and sound like good reasons to be depressed, but deep down I know they're notTHE reasons. I don't know what are. I really don't. I just am depressed. My doctor says that the fact that cycmbalta helps me to some extent proves that I'm depressed because of a chemical imbalance in my brain. I'm not sure that's all of it. Sometimes I think I'm just pathologically incapable of being happy!

5. Oh yes...I have to drag mysel to the odd appointment. I don't want to talk to some well meaning professional who doesn't really get it. I don't want to be told to put make up on to make myself feel better, or walk round the block because "exercise helps more than antidepressants". I just want to be left alone. Having said that...I know that doesn't help me.