Why we need to talk about depression | Kevin Breel

Kevin Breel didn't look like a depressed kid: team captain, at every party, funny and confident. But he tells the story of the night he realized that -- to save his own life -- he needed to say four simple words.
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[@pizzaparlorprincess]

"if you break your arm, everyone runs over to sign your cast. if you have depression, everyone runs away."

[@WishIwasinItaly]

Queen Victoria What saved me was a high quality supplement. Daily 4,000 IU vitamin D and high quality of fish oil. High quality vitamin B complex plus magnesium for a few months then cut back to half. Been through it all. This was the fix for me after years and years of Depression . Stay strong you will see bright blue skies again!

[@itsmyopinionboss8379]

if you express your depression no one runs away instead they try to solve your thoughts...

[@lanfanji7784]

itsmyopinionboss bahaha, I’m told I’m not depressed and depression isn’t a thing.

[@Vonx_Crane]

itsmyopinionboss I was raised that it was a demonic spirit that has corrupted your soul. I'm fucked 😓

[@nicparker3809]

he relapsed you boob....

[@nashae_9217]

The worst pat of depression is waking up every morning and facing the day. I wake up every morning having to put a fake smile on and talk to others. I really do try but each day and it gets harder and harder. Depression sucks, and it's real.

[@kevinasaurus]

100% agree. No idea how to make it better either, seems like I've tried everything...

[@kiarathellama4841]

Same i understand how you feel faking a smile hurts

[@nashae_9217]

Your the blessed one

[@nashae_9217]

I know, I tried meds and they were great but I moved back home and my mom didn't want me on them so I stopped.. But now I'm getting back on them which makes me happy.

[@kimtalibou1554]

Antwonette Simpson Girl I understand!

[@MyNamesGame]

It takes TRUE strength to stand up and say this on a stage in front of people. That is true courage.

[@NataMessi]

MyNamesGame yeas.. so proud of him. . N many thanks.. I remember very true quote "WIthout courage wisdom bears no fruit"..

[@BlackSwanNews17]

This is probably the realist video on the Internet

[@RaRa-Online]

Couldn't agree more.

[@Das-jc7nt]

BrokenJoystickGaming I agree 100%

[@johannsebastianbach5223]

All videos on the internet are real, your comment is illogical.

[@Alanislynx]

to this day

[@rockys1418]

"Real depression isn't being sad when something in your life goes wrong. Real depression is being sad when everything in your life is going right." This really hit home. He words it so perfectly, and I relate to it on a molecular level. It's not easy feeling something completely unrelated to your external reality, where the act of feeling sad makes me feel selfish, guilty. "Because unfortunately we live in a world where if you break your arm, everyone runs over to sign your cast. But if you tell people you're depressed, everyone runs the other way." Too true. I'm tired of having to lie and say I called in sick because of a cold or a flu or a stomach ache, when really it's a whole other type of sickness that keeps me bedridden and exhausted. "We are so, so, so accepting of any body part breaking down, other than our brains." I live in a society where, when it's your body breaking down, people hurry to get you all the help you need. However, when it's your brains, it's because you're not close enough to God, you're not praying, you're being sinful, you're defying God. That, in itself, is a taboo, and so people just pity you and tell you to pray and repent.

[@pillowfacemcgee1850]

[@Bb-wo8rm]

Rocky S what I realized..my life was coming up a hill.. but before than I didn’t feel nothing bc of the abuse.. Once I left that awful place.. I left suicidal

[@jojolafrite90]

I don't get it. For me, I have the constant feeling that everything that concerns me fells objectively bad, even engineered in a cosmical way.

[@MissUnderstoodasAlways]

Rocky Agreed. Profound

[@100cvcv8]

"Real depression is when you look like you just got back from the Holocaust" by me.

[@rejiinamio]

you know what's even scarier about people hearing you got depression? *they think you're just lonely*, they *don't listen to you*. And if they do listen... they say "move on, dude." or they change the topic. It's been like that for me. I thought even the closest friends would hear me out, but they just brush it off and change the topic. So I never spoke to anyone about it. I didn't notice it myself until recently but, keeping everything in made me numb... like, I just feel really hollow inside. I created a world for myself where I'm surrounded by happy thoughts, and things that make me happy... but depression will always haunt me, and it made me numb. It didn't improve one bit. It's the stigma that I hate. That people are blind and deaf to these things. What's keeping me from ending my life? I see my family's faces and I instantly feel guilty... there's this voice mocking me for not committing suicide... there's a war within myself. That's what depression is for me. It's a vicious cycle of wanting to kill myself, to trying to pick myself up.

[@naregzomdjian6726]

You're wrong. There are MANY people who feel like you, if not worse. You're not alone. People brush it off either because they are afraid to talk about it or because they just don't understand it. Don't accept that you're alone in this cause you're not. Trust me.

[@rejiinamio]

Nareg Zomdjian There is no right or wrong here. I was talking about how it was for me, and I never said anything about what other people experienced or are experiencing right now. I was sharing how depression is for me, how it felt being rebuked by people dear to me who never did _try_ to understand my case. Having to suffer this alone is not what I was talking about, but how it was for me suffering from depression --- and I am aware that people suffer from it. I know you mean well, but there is no concrete solution to my problem unless I seek professional help and educate the people _close_ to me about my condition. Words are empty unless action is done. And I have been trying to seek help and trying to tell the people around me that this is what's happening inside me, that I am at war with myself... and that I seem to sink in again and again in this pit while struggling to reach the surface. You see, the fact that you pointed out that MANY people felt the same way as I do is just not the right thing to say. We are all from different walks of life and the surroundings as well as our experiences contribute to our well-being. I appreciate that you took the time to say that I am not alone in this. However, I was not talking about loneliness or feeling alone. I was talking about depression. "Feeling alone" is never a problem to me, but being "rejected" is.

[@RaRa-Online]

Same here.

[@UnbiasedWho]

story of my life

[@lovejo101]

yes true

[@pwjamespw]

That speech from someone of just 19 is outstanding. Im 28 and have been suffering from depression for the last 9 years. Its really tough, and Kevin put everything that i feel in to words better than anyone else that ive heard. Thank you.

[@stevethomas74]

+James Thompson I absolutely agree, friend. I'm nearly 41 and have been suffering from Depression for 14 years, heard a lot of talks, read a few things and Kevin's talk here is easily the most relatable and down to earth and no nonsense talk that I've seen. There is a great talk from, ah, I can't remember her name.....I think she's Danish or something? I will try and search and see if I can't come back and tell you her name and the name of the TED Talk..... .......ok, search for "The Taboo Of Depression" TED Talk, the young lady is called Silja.

[@Rebek116]

James Thompson How are you doing now?

[@juzellTV]

I am 28 too. We can get through this together

[@sussychachi]

Am 25 been suffering for maybe 10 to 13 years. I can gladly say despite all the bad times I've had I'm finally getting better at controlling my darker half. I sometimes get worried that by me trying to regain my life I feel like am threatening my other half existent. It's a weird thing to say but I feel semi guilty for trying to get better because once I lived so much like this I don't see how its possible to live better but I guess it's a long process I must take. :)

[@nerdfighterable]

I like how he's just telling us the truth without embellishing it with fake emotions.

[@tomtom9889]

It's very real.

[@pipsch12]

Depression is the incapability of being vulnerable because you are afraid that you will die if you are rejected for this very vulnerable thing that hides inside you

[@ThePrivet18]

Yeah, the saddest part is that no one takes it seriously. Whenever I open up to somebody they say :'' oh, it's just autumn blues, i get that all the time, you'll be fine". It is not just Autumn blues for me, it's a constant fight with myself

[@persephonepomegranate2067]

same

[@rachelfrances905]

What they don't know I that seasonal depression is also an extremely large issue, but it's passed off as winter blues, although this is obviously not what you're suffering. I hope you're doing okay x

[@leannecurtis1582]

Yes and ahh get up and go outside, fresh air will help. Yeah maybe so but having anxiety too it’s a battle to sometimes even go outside my front door.

[@mechanussunrise]

Yes. I hate telling people who think they have dealt with it.

[@abdulrahmannabil]

"would you rather make your next Facebook status say you're having tough time getting out of bed because you hurt your back, or you're having tough time every morning because you're depressed? that's the stigma." what a brave courageous guy.

[@AwsumCherry]

I tried to open up to my mom once and she made an uncomfortable comment and walked away. I love my mother to death, but that's why 8 years after being diagnosed with clinical depression she still doesn't know I suffer every day. I'm terrified of her response, of her rejection, and what that might do to the delicate tightrope I walk every day.

[@Silviegold]

AwsumCherry Give her time and possibly bring up topics of depression just to see her reaction. If she doesn't accept your depression, then she's not the person you'd be going to for help. My mom took a lot of time to adjust because she couldn't believe that her precious daughter was always like this. My dad is ignorant and even scoffs, but I don't go to him. It's okay to be afraid, but you can always find a solution without feeling scared. Besides, its never the depressed person's fault for the other person's stigma. Don't hide it, because your life is precious and I'm sure if your mom is educated on depression, she'll likely accept who you are. I hope things with your mom can go well, it might bring you two closer than ever. Have a great day and don't forget that you are worthy and that you shouldn't have to care what others say based on their opinion.

[@AwsumCherry]

Silviegold Her family actually has a history of depression (she's adopted so mine is genetic from my dad's side I think). Her uncle (my godfather) killed himself in 1990 and she still doesn't understand his "selfishness". Her mother also also died from a simple illness that she may have been too depressed to receive treatment for. So as I understand it my mom is very angry and has a hard time processing her own emotions let alone someone else's. She's also slightly narcissistic, and has never had very much patience for dealing with anyone else's physical ailments without one-upping. Despite all this my mom and I are actually very close, I'm just the daughter who is always taking care of everything and never causes any problems for her like my other siblings. I have brought up my problems in the past, sort of dipping my toe in the waters type thing, and she's either brushed me off, joked it off, or launched into an "oh yeah well I have this..." type speech. So it is partly my fault just because I have allowed her to see me as the type of person who fixes everything and never breaks, so I have trained her how to treat me in a way. Maybe someday I'll open up to her, for now I'll continue seeing therapists without her knowledge lol and will continue to lean on her in other ways that I know she's capable of supporting. So thanks for listening to me ramble, once I get going I can't stop haha.

[@Silviegold]

Oh no it's okay! I'm sorry for the late reply though ): My mom sounds like your mom lol. My mom thinks its good for her to spoil me when I'm down (I was raised by my grandparents for about 14 years of my life). She would buy me clothes and etc, when really all I want her to say comforting words and give me affection (even though i push her away when I don't really want it). I probably inherited my depression from my grandpa and from my great grandma (my grandpa's mother) because she was suicidal and tried to kill herself 3 times. My mom would just try to let me forget about it, when really I will remember everything in detail. I wish I can see a therapist, but they're expensive. It's okay to not let your mother know, but it's kind of a little worrying if you never let her know. I hope you find some good days to embrace, because you deserve them. (: You're welcome!

[@VilleGardian]

I was the same as you, as a young teenager I was constantly saying how I wanna die and was just ridiculed and insulted because of it. My mother fully realised when I was diagnosed with a head tumor, that I must probably suffer. The tumor takes years to form. Maybe I manifested it to be finally seen and heard. But at the end, you only get to know, that you have no choice but do not allow your suffering take over your life. I still suffer but at least she is aware of that and understands a little bit better. But my partner ridicules me now like she used to do so it is inevitable part of life. Accepting that most people wont accept that you suffer and would like to die. Because they themselves live in denial and suffer too.

[@melinavalenzuela5897]

I have depression and my mom doesn't want to accept it because she doesn't want anything to be "wrong" with me so anytime my therapist talks to my mom about it she gets really angry and leaves

[@hungrymadcat3734]

Becoming invisible is the scariest part of depression -_-

[@barbarousseau]

r u still invisible kakashi sensei

[@trinsit]

It seems inevitable. At times, it makes me feel like this is an auto self-destruct code written into our genes.

[@susangurung7462]

i never knew depression was such a serious problem. Being a med std, in schools, we are taught like depression are mild forms of psychotic illness. so, nevere realized it was such a dangerous one. thanks a lot for the video. i really got to learn a lot.

[@nayyarnayyar1560]

you are a god gifted i am glad from you

[@courtneycampling293]

susan gurung It is severe.

[@evadarkeyes4164]

susan gurung I think what they meant is that depression when compared to mental illnesses such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psyochopathy..etc...these disorders can actually make you lose your ability to function 'normal'. I mean...you lose complete control over yourselves....seeing hallucinations...delusions...n needing serious treatments such as shock treatments for some..(only if the listed illnesses happen to be severe and high functioning). Depression on the other hand is complete hopelessnes....its helplessness....its something nobody is going to see...it slowly..slowly eats you away....and makes you to take your own life....so what i think they meant is....the former illnesses are like rabies...etc....if not treated immediately..it can get out of hand.....depression..anxiety..is more like cancer....it spreads slowly...very much curable at the first stages....n gets severe by last stages....complex to cure....yeah..that is what i think

[@TheeeDanielR]

Livi Shan same

[@shiheyi5250]

The mild ones kill the most

[@katherine1304]

depression is being sad when everything is going right which is true. now imagine how it feels when things go wrong.

[@thursdeychild]

Very real.

[@themusicalpilot1382]

I understand this completely. I have depression and it's devastating. It's literally like you watch the person you used to be before it fade away. You can't feel emotions other than sadness. You can't do the things you used to love. It's like consciously watching every part of the old you get consumed by this black void that is depression. It's painful, it hurts. But the thing about depression is, it's hurts you so badly you can't feel the hurt anymore

[@hikingtheoutdoors]

Feel the same, William. Hope you are OK. I have suicidal thoughts every day and feel like I am hurting the others by simply being alive.

[@kevinhead9464]

Imagine what its like for us who dont have friends or great family.

[@juzellTV]

Sometimes family and friends are the reason of our depression. We have to fight it alone. I am fighting it with you now

[@rarebreed345]

@@juzellTV and me to 🤛

[@eggboi6760]

@everyone and me to

[@e.m.9502]

Imagine suffering because of that family and when you speak out, they call you a liar, a faker.

[@maryam4259]

Love you kevin

[@charliechuck8994]

brave smart young man...good luck bro you will thrive.

[@hanasahr6298]

This speech is so powerful. This is a lot how I feel and this is exactly how society is. Huge clap to Kevin Breel and I'm happy he has made it this far.😊

[@1gnore_me.]

He's right, depression would be a million times easier if you could simply share it and talk about it without having to worry about being stigmatized. You rock, Kevin

[@casey-zd5mj]

emptiness, no passion, no reason to live.

[@Lanja1991]

Casey M that’s me

[@chelseaxx6672]

Casey M how i’ve felt for the past 8 months or so.

[@rarebreed345]

😔

[@nekogirl5629]

I saw this in class today and it very much inspired me and telling me i should speak up about my depression

[@chloeledbetter635]

I also watched it in class it made me understand truly what depression is

[@melvniee]

I needed to listen to this TED Talk. I'm glad I've stumbled upon it. I've been looking up about depression all night. I have been question whether I really am suffering from it or am I just being self-indulgent. I have been up all night, anxious about talking to my dad about getting help. this isn't the first time I tried talking to him about it, but he always makes a good case about changing my perspective in life. About seeing the big picture. I get it. I approve of the concept, I just can't seem to do it. This is what makes me feel weak. That I am not able to get myself up from this dark hole and that everybody who Iove me just continue having to be hassled from how I am. I can't fix myself and I feel weak. This video gave me courage to talk about it, finally. Really talk about it this time and actually get hep. Thanks for this video. Thanks for talking about depression, Kevin Breel.

[@bobbyferdaszewski3029]

+Melanie Torres Depression, the Secret We Share | Andrew Solomon | TED Talks - Duration: 29:22. by TED 905,653 views Key is to keep opening our perspective, asking for help, and knowing yourself. No blame, no Fault....it is what it is.

[@vanyastaleva415]

+Melanie Torres you're daddy's answer is exactly why you continue to struggle with it - "this isn't the first time I tried talking to him about it, but he always makes a good case about changing my perspective in life. About seeing the big picture." You're father is doing exactly what the speaker in the video says - your father is trying to pretend that you are just not looking to life from the right angle, that the problem is imaginary. Like Kevin said, you can't deal with a problem if you have to be ashamed about it and pretend that it doesn't exist. If you feel bad, there is a reason, so don't believe what your dad says.

[@juliedefee567]

It sounds like your dad means well. But how can you change your perspective if you don't know how? So, he is not skilled in the area of helping you change you're thinking and perceptions. I hope you find the support you need through therapy or someone who can really be of help to you and not leave you feeling that you are weak or a failure.

[@laiuwandhayami9900]

I have never been more proud of a person in my life-

[@timothyralston663]

It feels good to know there are others like us... that I'm not the only one... thanks for helping me understand myself Kevin. Thanks bro

[@BruisedFullMoon]

I've been struggling with depression for a few years already. I've found that when my depression has its worst days (like today), I come to youtube and read comments about people dealing with this mental illness as well. It makes me feel a little better to know that there are so many others out there struggling with this. In real life only my family and a few friends know about my illness, and yet most of them don't understand the extent how badly it affects my young life. Some even commented particularly nasty things about it, making me feel worse and more anxious. I feel very ashamed and 'coming out' to new people telling that I have depression, it's just terrifying. Asking for help is even more horrifying. I mostly feel very alone but knowing and reading other people their struggles with depression makes me feel like less like a 'freaky sad weirdo'. Thanks everybody for sharing your stories.

[@5flapjacks468]

What i did to free myself fro depression was to take the path to Jesus. Nothing else helped. It was not a physical condition, but spiritual. Thus going Christian freed me...Perhaps you too might try this way? You don't know unless you try...Pour out your heart to Jesus in verbal prayer as well as listen to a knowledgeable bible teacher/preacher who can tutor you in all things Jesus. I was helped by Joe Cortes teachingfaith .com. All his content is free... Start with a series titled, ' a change of mind' & 'table of the Lord". One of the benefits of doing this is you receive Jesus Spirit to live in you who will give you internal peace...

[@NataMessi]

choir of furies same here.. but nobody knows about my depression n dissociative disorder.. im still afraid to open up.. when I had just panic attacks earlier, family took care of me, but smiling n wondering why this girls is so anxious, we give everything to her,n etc.. from that I felt ashamed n it's been addressed as it's my weakness.. from then I never let anybody see my anxiety n depression flaws.. But. I'm here, if you need to talk or just "listen"

[@renren510]

i feel you.we are fighting it together.we are not weak and we are going to overcome it.i hope best luck for everyone on this journey.

[@Zavob]

Made me cry. This speech has to be heard for everybody.

[@MrThekickassduke]

Literally in tears. He explains it better than I ever could.

[@TheNinnyfee]

People who don't have it also don't know how physically painful depression is and how hard it pulls you into the darkness. That pull is so hard that fighting it feels like pulling a schoolbus away from an edge of a cliff that it is about to tip over fall from. All on your own.

[@breanadevey5433]

the first time I saw this I was in inpatient, and this video described me in every way. this video gave me a voice and now I think of myself as a survivor. thank you kevin for the words I couldn't say.

[@TheMcdkat]

Keven Breel is my new hero. He is exactly right, we need to open up our minds and open up the conversation about depression. Every single life lost to suicide is one too many.

[@linsrabbits]

Thank you for sharing this and helping break the stigma for everyone who suffers.

[@atypicalmatias]

it made me cry man, thanks for sharing.

[@stevethomas74]

Quite simply, one of the best real talks on Depression I've heard. I'm going through another fairly severe bout of it now and like Kevin, I've been battling it almost every day but for 14 years. Most of the time, it's what I call 'low level' meaning that I can usually overcome it pretty easily with distractions and walking for example. But when it's full blown or near to full blown and then you throw in insomnia plus near constant suicidal thoughts which I've had consistently for the last 3 nights, well, that's a whole other stinking kettle of fish indeed Something Kevin said really struck me and that was the part where he said something about if he was being honest, he's thought of suicide right now as he's talking. Jesus H, man that couldn't have struck me more harder if it tried I wish for everyone reading this who is in the same boat or similar to keep on battling as it IS a battle. But it's a battle worth fighting for in the end I believe. I know that someone reading this might have a situation or feel 10 x or 100 x worse than I do. But for me, what keeps me going is helping to look after my parents and knowing that I am very fortunate enough to have some good friends, even if they aren't around me because of location differences Sending love to all who read this

[@victoriapark6926]

I don't think I've been depressed for a fourth as long as you but I relate. I find myself randomly thinking about suicide. I hope you don't commit suicide and stay strong. I can't tell you it'll be fine unfortunately since that's something you decide.

[@victoriapark6926]

Oh. Thank you. I'll check both of them out.

[@stevethomas74]

Tori Park Take care, Tori :)

[@SonOfGod-sz5yc]

+Steve Thomas I'm in it for about 10 years now I have no friends due to isolating myself I have no family because they are toxic and i finally drew the line with them. I'm 40 and as a man i feel worthless that i'm suffering from this soul cancer, at least i have no children that have to see me like this at least thats one thing to feel ok about. I only exist in the shadows of this world all i hold on to is that one day i can feel again feel the love again the love that this life is so precious the love i once knew that is why i hold on hoping that i can feel that again my soul is crying out for that love that is Life,,, not to forget me.

[@stevethomas74]

dakota38rip+ Hey there, I truly hear you my friend and you we're probably quite similar people (certainly the age although I'm 42 this Sept and thankfully my parents aren't toxic). Right now, I'm going through yet another extended bout of severe mood swings (mostly on the low side) and suicidal ideation galore. I know I won't do that but it still doesn't make it hurt any less. I love your description btw at 'soul cancer' that's a really great way of putting it. Please feel free to reach out to me either through here or my Facebook page if you just want to talk or have someone listen to you - I know how much of a big difference it can make. Also, check out both Douglas Bloch's channel on here as well as Bignoknow as they are 2 great guys who know only too full well and then some what it's like and have made some great videos to help and advise people Stay strong

[@FunnySocks101]

Thank you, Kevin. Youre freaking incredible.

[@miker2236]

I struggle with depression everyday from my moms death, to being in debt close to $100,000, no car, no home to call my own, not feeling accepted in the LGBT community. This is a serious issue and people who tell there stories people will not listen to them, I told my story to a station in my hometown. I agree with Kevin its so amazing to here is story. I like people to here mine and I know that there are others just like Kevin and myself. We all have stories to tell but who will listen is the next thing.

[@yasmeennaz9184]

Miker sorry for your mother death. I hope you will a successful life. Now you have a wife and kids. I read your comment 5 years after. I will pray for you. I am from Pakistan

[@MrSocalreoking]

Thank you Kevin for articulating so well what we go through , our thoughts and how we long for others to understand with compassion.

[@Outcast227]

I keep coming to this video sometimes when I'm really depressed. I got help for most of last year, during the COVID pandemic and it really helped me for a while. I really thought I finally beat this thing. But over the past couple of months, even today it's been bad again...so I'm back to this video- because it is really encouraging.

[@matthewsnell5486]

This is the only thing I've found that really describes what I've been going through. It's been happening since I was 13, similar to Kevin's situation. I'm 16 now, and it hasn't improved. My parents want me on medications, but I think I'm just fine. My parents are both divorced and both want custody of me. My dad said that I'm suicidal, but I don't know. If you ask anyone at my school, they will tell you that I'm just some smart kid who always has a smile on his face. The truth is, I feel like I can't tell anyone about my depression because if I did, my reputation would be ruined. It's really sad, and this video did a fantastic job of explaining what's been happening to me these past few years. Thank you.

[@jacksonturner242]

I've never ever talked to any professionals at all about the kinds of feelings I've had that are similar to Kevin's here...but I'm going to. Thanks man.

[@dopehat868]

Jackson Turner I know getting a reply is a long shot but I'd absolutely love to know if you ever ended up seeing a professional. Seeing the 'right one' helped me unbelievably.

[@Isabe1le]

What a beautifully eloquent man. I'm so glad he came out to talk about this.

[@specialuniquesnowflake]

This is probably the most powerful ted talk I've ever seen. I can pretty much relate to his situation, so I can literally feel how difficult it was to him to talk about this, and that fact along with his determination to spread the world make me really admire this young guy. I'm sure it's a great step to raise the awareness of depression and truly hope for more of these.

[@amyle9689]

This is my 3rd or 4th time listening to this talk and every time I just gets better and better! I'm currently reading his book and it is one of the best books ever. Kevin is a hero, he's my hero.

[@Emanuel-vr3gw]

I will always respect this human being, I always come back and listen to this, the part where he talks about people walking the other way when you bring depression up is true in my eyes since it happen to me before.

[@petmeee]

The thing about being depressed is that you can't share it because you'll only get ignorance which is why you're depressed in the first place.

[@latoyadale5747]

True

[@baruchben-david4196]

Nam Dam No, being misunderstood isn't the cause of depression. Depression isn't a response to difficult situations. It is more accurate to say that clinical depression is a cause of being misunderstood.

[@TheJournalCEO]

Wow. Not sure how I stumbled on this video, but can relate more than I want to admit. Touching. Takes a lot of bravery for a 19 year old comic to talk about depression like this. Kudos. I had no idea someone takes their life every *30 seconds.* So often, so tragic.

[@traceysouth1047]

this guy is phenomenal to be that age and that insightful. I suffer from depression. And I am feeling a bit less embarrassed about it , thanks to this great young man !

[@amandareucser]

I wish I could use the word lucky when I turned away from the edge like he did. All I could feel was trapped because my life is completely interwoven with others that if I chose to break my tread I think I would unravel someone elses. Kevin definitely gave my thoughts freedom. He is very brave for standing up and talking about mental illness.

[@paulafowler5099]

Amazing young man. He speaks so well about this very important issue. My son has this as well, and he struggles every day....but he's a fighter and I'm so proud of him.

[@missnadial5174]

I absolutely loved everything about this speech! He is beyond brave for putting this out and shedding light on something that is a major issue in our society.

[@CryingXCX]

This was 4 years ago and still depression is judged and not understood by the world. That will never change unfortunately.

[@NataMessi]

Crying exactly.. instead, the world creates artificial intelligence.robots ...

[@mdowney9621]

You are a strong young man. After more than 40 years with depression, I could not have expressed myself as well as you.

[@mckenna799]

He's so real and raw and I love this and identity with him so much.

[@constantinecatheart9508]

Depression is, without any doubt the most serious enemy of humanity. That because it turns one against his/her self, the mind fighting you with all its passion and never seems to stay silent. I believe that it is the ego brain which is not fully evolved yet to a rational brain and essentially fights itself to undo mistakes. Mistakes are the driving force of evolution so future generations might be depression free. Problem is that many people have to suffer before something is achieved either naturally or artificially.

[@Lanja1991]

Constantine Catheart I also think depression is an evalutionary trait. Like Darwin said survival is for the fittest and strongest. The ones with depression kill them selves so they won’t have off springs and won’t pass the genes. I do also believe in may be a thousand year the world will be depression free or we won’t have people suffering from suicide ideation

[@laiuwandhayami9900]

It destroys us from the inside out doesn't it?

[@hellospencerrr1363]

The worst part of depression, that it becomes part of your life...

[@azmystudio165]

when it becoms your routine and you are used to it you start being afraid of happiness and feel hopeless then start hating yourself this is what is unbearable in depression 😖😖

[@blueant7988]

It takes a real courage to step up and talk about this. His speach is awesome.

[@suestamm3190]

Kevin, that was an amazing speech. So honest and real. You speak well beyond your years. You NAILED it. All the best to you and those who love you.

[@gorefieldluvr6921]

Why would anybody dislike this?

[@burjalmadre]

Ignorance.

[@christopherschneider2968]

There are People in the World who dismiss Psychology as a Field of Medicine and there People who believe Depression is not real.

[@coolkatkate1]

yeah hate and ignorance. i once went to a therapist who told me depression and anxiety dont exist and that i just needed to think more positively. a year later im on medication and seeing a new therapist because she made me think i was crazy for believing i had depression and anxiety

[@christopherschneider2968]

Katie Ericks good for you! Depression takes years to wrestle down. People that believe it doesn't exists are super unhelpful with that...

[@darklightreaper1]

because being depressed for no reason is good to these cult leaders

[@oliviermosimann6931]

WoW. THAT speech is grand and true.

[@wavesurfer7284]

live suffered with depression for 4 years no end at sight yet, but when my mind allows I watch others talk, it helps to feel less alone. Charlie

[@mayam6680]

I come back to this video every time someone makes me feel bad about myself cause I can't "feel better" fast enough for their liking, and for the first time this video just made me cry, I can't believe how real every word he's saying is!

[@awfullyawful]

What is it called when you don't feel anything? I used to be happy, then I was unhappy, now I'm just nothing. I've grown so out of touch with myself I can't even identify the source of my sadness or whether or not I'm sad. It's like having a splinter in your finger and fixing it by cutting off your arm. The splinter no longer hurts but it's only because there is nothing there to feel the pain.

[@sexywildlad]

It's called apathy I think. I've had it for a couple of years, it is symptom of PTSD, for example. I think I got through it by slowly, almost unconsciously giving up on certain faulty beliefs and assumptions that were causing the 'splinter' to be stuck in me. When I gave those up, the splinter got out, the wound healed and I could feel again (it started with crying, but I'd rather feel that than nothing).

[@jguilford5080]

Apathy is also part of depression. Numb, I hope we all get the help we need. I took in what he said about the self-acceptance being important - I know I can't change other people's reactions or opinions. Depression may be biological - so there may not be an event causing it. It can be helped.

[@sexywildlad]

J Guilford Depression may also be a biological reaction to certain events, for certain people.

[@AmeFeyre]

Sal C It hurt to say that I know what you mean.

[@AmeFeyre]

Jane Eyre hurts*

[@MyIceman12345]

I feel like everyone should watch this video, it brought tears to my eyes because ever single word this man said was true !!! Facebook. Is also very concited, I find that looking where people have been on Holiday and updates to your profile is a synthetic lifestyle, it's good in some respects but can be detrimental for some, it's also not a realistic view of real life events, show the good but not the bad, we must change our view and we need to start to listen to eachother and listen to people's problems not avoiding them !!! This man is my hero Merry Christmas.

[@feelthethrillnow]

I feel the honesty in your words. Thank you for gathering up the courage to voice these problems we're all dealing with, whether we want to acknowledge them or not. I also believe we can. Again, thank you.

[@nadiagandin5083]

This is my favorite TED talk ever. I remember feeling so understood when I first watched this. Everyone should watch this video.

[@hammieinvestigations5392]

Very brave. We need more open conversations on depression.

[@petrinaleblanc5034]

He spoke what so many feel. What a brave young man. Agreed that any talk of mental illness makes people run. Very important as a society we make changes to show love and compassion. I use yoga, mediation and running to help me manage (anxiety).

[@sadiyabudroo3249]

i haven't seen more relatable thing ever. thank you for this

[@andrewrobinson2727]

Standing up in front of all those people sharing that and spreading such an important message can only be admired in my eyes! Pure bravery ❤️

[@fabianorubiu3911]

This guy got balls

[@ontoyoualways9183]

Fabiano Rubiu. Sorry, that is just the point. He doesn't have "balls". He has true, overwhelming depression. A disorder that takes over your mind 24/7!

[@jasonfinch3710]

Helen Rogers Balls in this instance is referring to courage, the comment above is talking about how brave he is to talk openly about a topic that is often ignored.

[@fiftypnce]

You're BOTH right, I think. It must've taken immense courage to speak so candidly about his depression in front of an audience. Something I'm sure my anxiety and depression would not allow me to do. But, he's not an example of all sufferers - many could simply not consider doing what he's done. He also mentioned that he's a stand-up comedian - and I recall hearing that many comedians have psychological issues - even that many use stand up as self-therapy. So, complete respect to the man :-)

[@thudthedestroyer515]

We all suffer from some level of depression, but some have not developed the coping techniques needed to overcome it. Talking about it is one of the bravest and important steps. For those that suffer from depression, it is almost impossible to talk about. It is easier just to "withdraw from the world for a while"...,"I will stay here in bed until I feel better",..."may be will smoke a little of this and drink some of that"..."may be a few of these pills, and then tomorrow"...these are constant thoughts in this vicious cycle. We have to share our pain to get past it. Find someone you love and trust. Someone who will be sympathetic and truly listen to your plight and have faith. Cry out and be embrace your healing.

[@paradoxicalenigma1733]

As always Douglas...you have a tender soul. Glad to have you as a contact.

[@jacoblockwood8775]

yea i agree with Douglas Moseley how do i know because i have been there for a very long time... and its gotten worse the person i loved and trusted.... ended their own life now i have no one to talk to. So how do you think i should deal with that?

[@paradoxicalenigma1733]

Jacob Lockwood Talk to people. Talk to me any time. I mean that.

[@thudthedestroyer515]

Jacob Lockwood Sometimes you feel like you are abandoned. Someone who once spoke to you about really personal things is no longer there for you. Having made it through another day is proof that you have the strength to continue for another day. Make that day the most important day in your life by reaching out to someone, as you have with your comments. I know you probably know all of the standard resources like counselors or pastors, so use them! DO IT NOW! Don't think about it just do it! Get someone that will listen to your story! Like Trace, you can write to me any time! YOU ARE NOT ALONE in this thing, man! Many of us are struggling through things that are almost too hard to talk about! Just make it through today, and tomorrow will be better. My experience has been once you get enough days in your rear-view mirror, you'll have moved in the direction that you set out to achieve. In the mean time, small some flowers, read something interesting, start a new hobby and live the best live you can. Find someone positive in your life and be a blessing to others!

[@paradoxicalenigma1733]

yeah, I totally could stand to have someone to write back and forth to. Someone I could support as a friend and someone I could chat to about stuff. I have people in my life, but many can't relate, or you don't want to feel like a burden. Doesn't even have to be about problems, I know Douglas means what he is saying 100%. He is a very nice person and a friend of mine. Write to either of us. Do you have "google+ hangouts" ? If not google it, download it, and chat anytime. just add people. If you need help with it let me know.

[@valentinafangirling]

First TED talk ever that makes me cry, more people should be aware of this. Makes me proud I'm a survivor too

[@sincerely-nai]

I accepted the fact that maybe I'll never be okay, and though it hurts smiling for others people happiness is just a daily thing for me because nobody ever should feel the way I do.

[@Ropeadopeya]

I have found that a lot of my own depression seemed to stem from self obsession. Ever since I stopped obsessing about myself and my problems and instead focused my attention on the world and outside life it has never really returned.

[@chad4452]

O 'Muireadhaigh What makes you say that?

[@MandarinCat]

Ben Alexander How did you discover that? I would like to try discovering something like that if I can.

[@TT-fn1xb]

Works for some but not for others. That's why people in caring professions like doctors, nurses, teachers etc also struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts sometimes. When you start to believe life is meaningless and pointless it's hard to see purpose or a reason to continue. I focused a lot on others at one point in my life but all it did was defer the depression which had been longstanding. I'm glad nevertheless that the shift in your focus has allowed you freedom from depression.

[@real_pat_ftw7882]

I have the same thing, and can relate

[@real_pat_ftw7882]

He says it perfectly

[@panicathedisco6129]

Same

[@savannahg224]

So inspiring!! Loved your speech Kevin! Truly, truly love every part. He's exactly right when he said "We can't find the solution when we are scared of the question."

[@thejonathanrath]

You're a brave and heroic young man, and you've already done so much. I think you're destined for greatness. Stay positive (to you and all out there!), and be well.

[@poophead597]

This hit home, I hope he’s doing okay now 💜

[@ilikeceral3]

Depression is already awful enough. Add anxiety into the mix and it's even more painful. I started hating myself for not caring enough but being too apathetic to change course from my downward spiral, all while panicking about it somehow too. Mental illness sucks.

[@dopehat868]

ilikeceral3 What a perfectly relatable situation wow

[@feelthesounds325]

Thank you, Kevin, for being so brave. You have inspired me to keep on moving forward and facing my fears head on because I too suffer from depression. This was amazing, thank you!

[@adventuresthruart2530]

What a moving and sincere talk on Depression. He is so brave, honest, and moved me to my core. I can't wait to show this video to my 10th grade Health class. I hope they are mature enough to take something away from this.

[@chgofirefighter]

Finally someone who actually speaks from the heart about this terrible ordeal, yes depression exist and its real. Despite the stigmas, negativities, naysayers, depression is REAL. I wouldn't wish depression on my worst enemy.

[@maxbp101]

Thank you!

[@geoffreyschuchardt2948]

Thank you Kevin, I don't know if you get back to reading these but if you do from the bottom of my heart, thank you

[@jonthephilanthropist]

You are 100% correct. Thank you so much. I can hear it in your voice. God bless you.

[@davinadragonfly1602]

I understand you! People don't understand how bad it hurts. Depression makes it hurt to be alive. Thank you for talking about it, because when a bad bout of depression makes you feel like you're the only one. I've had manic/depression for 20 years and I still think about suicide. I won't do it, but it's like a demon that's always there when you suffer from depression.

[@elflakeador09]

Absolutely brilliant, showing strength way beyond his years, everything he says is so true, having being living with depression for the last 13 years he sums up exactly how it is.

[@annabelleholmes6443]

Whenever i feel down i watch this video and i love it and he took the words out of my mouth. I wish people would stop avoiding this issue instead of pushing it into a corner and acting like its not there.

[@Marcousse]

I'm so grateful I came across this video on youtube. I didn't know much about depression before but now I realize deeply that it has a devastating effect on an individual's life. Kevin truly spoke from his heart and some of the things he said felt so relatable: we all have our ups and downs, and sometimes it feels like nothing is worth it. But you are worth it, because you're a person with emotions, you have feelings and you're a living soul. So please don't give up on yourself, whoever is reading this. I promise you that it gets better, I know everybody says that but just hope it will eventually.. You contribute to the world by being in it, and if that's not enough for you, it's enough for the people who love you. Stay strong everyone

[@jenniferbueller9917]

I hear everything that you say and I have been depressed for many years and I do have a support team around me to help me through the darkest times. My husband, my friends, my parents. It is hard to come out and admit depression go to my three beautiful children who are 16, 11 and 9. How do you explain depression too young, joyful, happy children look forward to the future and don't know what it feels like to have darkness shrouding you. They see when my body gets very thin. They see me when my eyes are red from crying. But they don't see the deep despair, nor do I want them to. But as you said, there is light. And they are the light that keeps me away from the bottle of pills, or the tall building. They are the light that keeps me seeking help and compassion and support from my depression. Thank you for bringing it out into the open

[@keithclingan6689]

Hey Jennifer you have a husband and three great kids and I am sure they understand that life is tough sometimes. But they also know that you love them unconditionally and they feed that back to you. I guarantee that once they get older they will become ever better strength-givers down the road. They love you regardless of how you are. Peace be with you sister...

[@debrahill2272]

You can be shining in brightness to others but living in darkness..It's OK to say you're not OK..Mental health is physical health...

[@Luemm3l]

i was in tears at the end. He described it sooo good. There are many talks about that matter here on youtube but this felt real ! Suffering for 2 years and also putting a mask on every day... have lost almost all friends, my family doesn't have a clue that I am depressed, they just think I'm "silent"

[@anabogdan3601]

The honesty of the speaker is amazing, it's inspiring.

[@73838814]

Once you start down the slippery slope of depression, it's hard to climb off of it. And sometimes you don't want to climb off of it.

[@michellebooker7765]

I felt like I could have stood in his place and said almost every single word. I have hope. I do. But I also have this disease and I'm so sick of trying to hide it. It affects everything and when people get too close and find out I feel like I have to uproot myself and start all over. I want to live life to the fullest. My thoughts are consumed with being the person that can change lives and being better. I know I'm supposed to love myself but I've never learned how and don't know where to start. Most people reading these comments can relate and for that I'm sad but I also love you all, because you get it and we, though often times feel alone, are in this same battle together. Keep fighting friends. Our loved ones will never understand and I've learned we can't expect them to. How could they? Just don't give up.

[@NeonPinkEyeShadow04]

I'm sitting here about half WY through and trying not to cry. this mirrors so much of my battle with depression from the time I was about 11 or 12. it's only been the last few years I have started to truly understand what I have been going through. all I can say is thank you. thank you for putting words on the things I, and many others, go through.

[@oneproudpappa]

Kevin, Thank You for your courage sir. Very well said.

[@syyhkyrotta]

Very brave guy! Takes balls to talk about these things

[@iwnunn7999]

Great voice.

[@mshell1959]

This might be the bravest most profound TED talk I have heard. Thank you!

[@paulafowler5099]

Thank you for this Kevin, I hope it opens up some eyes.