I've been to therapists who are very sensitive about wording. They would never say this. It's based in ignorance. However, people see a GRAIN of truth in it. My best therapist said, "Fake it until you make it." This is a powerful concept. Lets say you are so depressed you never shower and can barely eat boxed food. Also: fixing a proper meal is totally out of the question, "who cares."
Being able to type here may mean your depression, and mine is way easier than this description. - - - So you have some choices. We have some things to be thankful for. A neighbor as a GOOD therapist can say, "You look cheerful today." Maybe you faked it. What if you go to the favorite places of 10 years ago, and you fake it. You can get SOME positive responses and then you feel better about yourself. If you feel better, week after week then you are faking it until you make it. Maybe you see that stupid doctor and he/she says, "OK. I guess you're more responsive today. Take 2 asprin and ..... " Well, the doc still has a judgement problem, but it's NOT your problem.
When dealing with depression we can't go around COLLECTING other people's problems. If I needed extra baggage, I should carry some for people I know, not the stranger in a fast food place! Faking it can be a spiral out, and it is NEVER a quick fix. You do not "SNAP" out of it. That sounds like magic. So the next time you hear it say, "Wow, your magic is powerful. Can you bottle it? Send me 5% of your profits, please."View Thread