Celebrities are humans too, right?

For about the past week now, former NBA star Lamar Odom has been in the news. Odom was hospitalized after being found unconscious in what was said to be a Nevada brothel. For those of you out there who are confused on what a brothel is like I was, it’s simply a house where men can visit prostitutes. The reason I point this out is because despite the fact there is a young man fighting for his life, the media still finds ways to paint a picture for their audience to gain ratings. If you google Lamar Odom right now, and click on one of the search results that show up, you won’t really get a description of his accomplishments, but more so on what’s happening currently in his life. This is expected, of course because he is in fact a celebrity, but why were his struggles so prominent in the whole equation? If we delve deeper into the entire situation we may actually find the answer to this.

When you hear the names Whitney Houston, Amy Winehouse, and Lamar Odom you may see a trend. But did depression pop in your head? For some maybe, but for most, probably not. However, depression is very much real. When it comes to celebrities who are constantly in the spotlight whether good or bad we all see it. When Lamar Odom was facing his extreme lows, the media made sure to point them out. We all knew of his battle with drug addiction, and his separation from Khloe Kardashian. But not many of us know of the loss of his mother at a young age, an infant son, a murdered relative, and a childhood best friend. Signs of depression can happen early on and gradually build up. The celebrities we watch on a day-to-day basis deal with many controversies and depression in the public eye. But what about how we cope with depression on a personal level?

Here’s a list of some self-help for depression that you or someone you know may find helpful:

1. Write in a journal. Sometimes it may be a good idea to write your thoughts down so you can come back and read them later. You may be able to point out what may be a cause of your depression, or even better, you may be able to use the journal to reflect on how things used to be and how you’re doing way better now.

2. Talk to someone. Depression is not always a visible condition, so it may take you seeking others to get help. One conversation with someone you love may go a very long way.

3. Do things that make you happy. Going for a jog, listening to your favorite song, or going on a road trip with your best friend, are some of the simple things you may find helps take your mind off things that seem stressful in your life. The simple things really do help.

4. Express yourself. Let those emotions out, because holding them in is not always the best strategy. If you need to cry, just let it happen. You need to let yourself experience those feelings because it could ultimately help you in the long run. But of course with all emotions and feelings, please make sure you express them in the healthiest and safest way possible.

5. Get help. It is highly important that you seek professional help if you experience signs of depressions. A visit to a therapist or doctor will help make sure you get the proper diagnosis and treatment. There are also depression hotlines that you may call if you don’t know where to go for help. And if you are a student, many universities have a health and wellness center that are right on campus to help you.

Just remember that depression is very real, but you are not alone. Don’t ever give up on yourself, because there’s someone out there that cares for you and you are placed on this earth to make a difference. So that means you serve an important role and you should take full advantage of that. Strive to be great!