Navigating the Storm: Adversity and Resilience in Life and Love
Life's journey is riddled with adversities, some of which feel insurmountable. Finding our way through these storms requires resilience, understanding, and a willingness to seek help. In this piece, we explore the personal journey of challenges faced, the struggle with severe depression, and the quest for appreciation and validation in the face of constant expectation.
The Struggle with Severe Depression
Depression is often seen as a hidden storm, one that can cloud judgment and consume the soul. For individuals with high IQs, the challenge of dealing with depression can be exponentially more complex. Despite being highly compensated, good-looking, and muscular, dealing with severe depression is a silent battle fought in the shadows. The struggle not only impacts the individual but also those around them. Depression can run in families, with several instances of suicide among relatives, making it even harder to seek help or even discuss the condition openly.
Individuals who struggle with depression often struggle to find romantic partners who understand and accept them. High-IQ women, many of them valedictorians or top SAT/ACT scorers, have been drawn to this individual. However, the perfect gentleman routine, designed to win over these intelligent and discerning women, can often backfire. These women are highly perceptive and can see through the facade, creating suspicion and doubt. In some cases, even M.D. psychiatrist detected signs of mental health issues in these women, raising concerns about their own mental health.
The Impact of Depression in the Workplace
The workplace, a place meant to be a sanctuary for high achievers, can become a battleground for those battling depression. The pressure to consistently perform at a high level without taking time for oneself can be overwhelming. Many individuals suffering from severe depression have to go to great lengths to mask their struggles, making excuses for their absence and struggling with getting approval for doctor's appointments.
Colleague suicides and the discomfort displayed by coworkers during such times highlight the insensitivity and pressure present in many work environments. Top firms, despite their rigorous work schedules, often expect employees to cancel non-essential activities for medical appointments, while junior employees are expected to handle doctor's appointments with the same ease as everyday work commitments.
Craving Appreciation and Validation
Family expectations and a constant push for more can leave individuals feeling unappreciated and inadequate. This sentiment is deeply rooted from a young age. From childhood drawings and poems to academic achievements, the persistent lack of recognition and validation can lead to a severe sense of insecurity and an insatiable craving for appreciation.
The quest for appreciation is a lifelong battle, especially for someone who has been consistently told that their efforts are not enough. Even at the age of 5 when drawing, 10 when writing a poem, or 16 with average academic performance, the absence of appreciation can be debilitating. Over time, these messages can lead to the abandonment of creative pursuits and an ongoing struggle with self-worth.
However, the journey to self-validation is a powerful one. Recognizing the importance of one's own feelings and the value of self-appreciation can lead to a newfound sense of resilience. Understanding that one's worth is not defined by external validation helps in overcoming the deep-seated insecurities.
Conclusion
Dealing with depression and the constant struggle for acceptance and appreciation is a profound journey. It is essential to acknowledge the challenges faced and seek help when needed. The path to resilience is paved with understanding, support, and self-validation. If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues, remember that you are not alone and help is available.