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Kevin is going to...

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Kevin is going to do a special forum today in honor of Robin Williams. Watching the news here at work and I've been trying to find something to say.

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Many of you know I have been pretty public about my own struggles with depression. So, I think my heart and mind goes to the hundreds, probably thousands of you reading this, who sadly, understand why he did what he did. You've been there. Tired of the hurt. Tired of feeling alone.

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I've been there too. If I wasn't sure I'd have ruined my daughters life for ever I'd have made the same tragic choice on more than one occasion.

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If you've been in that dark place, please know you are not alone and it's not your fault.

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You are NOT alone and it's NOT your fault.

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Here's how it is for me. It just happens. Often with stress. Some times for no reason at all. I just feel "off". A little at first then it can get worse. As a creative person I think I have a tendency to be introverted. When I'm down, I put it on me. Add in social stigma and you've got a very dangerous spiral.

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But here's the facts I've learned. Depression is a biological condition. You wouldn't keep a fight with cancer or heart disease between you, your thoughts and your bed would you? Of course not. You would bring in a team of healthcare professionals in your life to help.

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If you're hurting with depression you deserve, you need, the same care and attention. No, there is no easy fix. Support groups won't fix you. Life doesn't go rainbows and daisies on Prozac. But life can be good. It can be deep and meaningful. But you have to reach out and connect. You HAVE TO get help.

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If this post has resonated with you, please make a call. In the US I'd recommend the NAMI hotline. 1 (800) 950-NAMI (6264). 10-6 Eastern Time. You'll talk to someone who can walk you through the first steps of finding help.

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One call. It's worth it. They helped me. I know they can help you.

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For 24 hour crisis help call (800) 273-TALK (8255).

 

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166 Comments on Instagram:

 

observationsintime: Google Secrets of the Creative Brain @joshjohnson. It's a fascinating article published recently by The Atlantic

 

lynnlach04: Well done @joshjohnson. Hopefully this will speak to those suffering and inspire them to reach out for help.

 

jj_editor_karinaa: Hey Josh @joshjohnson and Kevin @kevinkuster you guys are doing so great that it's so incredible that you can feel so sad but it's so understandable. I'm by myself feel a bit disappointed . A bit depressed more than usual I'm looking for the mean of life . Boring job , surrounded by stupid people, meaningful life but... We are so lucky to have our family, relatives and friends and also this great #jj community ! This is our best treasure. We are blessed ☺️ we have more that money can by!!! #love you guys #jj

 

jj_editor_karinaa: *mean = meaning

 

mel_adee: This brings tears to my eyes. How courageous and admirable of you to use this forum to reach out and touch as many people as you can

 

tati_c_alves: @gerardin_mx ❤️

 

bashfulbyte: @joshjohnson thanks for this

 

rickyworld:

 

 

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Uploaded on August 22, 2014
Taken on August 13, 2014