Depression can encompass the entire self. Eventually, a person sees themselves described as a depressed person. They are seen as an “eyeore” type personality. One cannot be defined by depression and allow their personality to be defined as it but they need to receive the help they need to better cope and regain their identity. How one feels should not define who one is.
The article, “Depression Is the Ultimate Identity Thief” by Dr Michael Friedman looks at identity and depression. He states,
“We start to lose faith in ourselves and our identity becomes connected with depression. We think of ourselves as a “depressed person” rather than someone who suffers from depression. Add to that the fact that our social relationships and work performance suffers and we assume that we are “not good at relationships” or “not a strong performer.”
To read the entire article, please click here
Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online, independent study and open to qualified professionals.