Im bipolar with schizo-effective disorder. I so felt like you were talking to me in this video. I often need to be reminded that it is okay to need my meds. That it does not make me weak or less than to need meds and help. Thank you Aaron
100 percent Aaron brag away hunni thats a incredible achievement. And well done on this video topic.being so open and honest about your experiences will help so many that relate to not feel alone.great job
"I'm not doing nothing, I'm healing" - wow!! So well put! In a society obsessed with productivity, it's a revolutionary act to just take time to put oneself back together.
Your experience with EDS is actually a good analogy for mental health diagnoses too. I feel white hot rage at people, especially therapists, who are against diagnosing because they don't want to "label" people. With a diagnosis you're able to get help and develop strategies that actually work! You know your limits, what you can and can't do. I spent about a year running in circles with a therapist who just wouldn't help me, when I came across ADHD and realized it fit me she actually discouraged me from seeing a psychiatrist. Needless to say I dumped her and found a doctor and a new therapist. I was also pretty depressed and medication has been a game changer. Don't even get me started on the big pharma conspiracies. Anyway, glad to see you doing better!
L Leitenperger Actually, could you get started on the big pharma conspiracies? I’m so conflicted about it all, and would like to hear some hopefully balanced thoughts!
Hi Aaron! I’m a fairly new sub, I found you through Ty Turner. I suffer from depression also. In my opinion, you have the right outlook on everything. Keep implementing what you need to in order to overcome the depression. Side note: I think you’re very handsome. Lots of love and hugs!!!!
I’m absolutely saving this in my brain to bring to people to help explain my mental illnesses and my growth. I love the plant analogy, we’re a few lil houseplants working to get big and strong together
I admire you for being so persistent and you seem so certain about it all, that's so awesome! After some struggling (thanks, social anxiety) I "broke up" with my therapist just two days ago and want to start looking for a new one soon, so your words came at a wonderful time to reassure me. Thank you for your words. Seeing you be so kind is a reminder for me to be kind to myself as well. ❤
This was such a beautiful and inspiring video Aaron! It makes me so happy to see you thriving and this was exactly what I’d like to say to non depressed people about the condition
I really enjoyed this video because it gave me motivation to do productive things that will set up my life for the future. I also really appreciated the plant metaphor it made me think of Aaron as a small succulent in the windowsill.
Wow, this is a great video! Totally love you broken leg and plant analogies. They work so well. Congrats on your 100%! Real proof that when you look after the plant, the plant will flourish. Peace.
Such a well phrased explanation of how you felt and your recovery! I love you analogies. I just read an account of an ESD sufferer and how medical cannabis has helped her with pain relief/no pain. Here in Britain it is not available, but was just in the news as a mother made it v. public as she brought it back from Canada (CBD oil) to help her severely epileptic son. I have just discovered your channel, so do not know how you think about using cannabis or have you ever explored this option?
I have been struggling with the depression side of bipolar for a while now. I ended up going on short term disability. I am now getting ready to go back to work. I really needed this video to help me accept what is going on and know that it was ok to take the time off to help heal a little.
"that was me i was a little plant...im a sickly little plant" aaron i have never related more to a thought ever. i needed to watch this today and hear that its okay for me to be sick and need time. thank you. i appreciate you so much
The plant metaphor is so important it helped me realize that I was expecting too much from my self and that I do need more breaks, resources, etc. I was forcing myself to handle too much and acting as if I’m stronger than I currently am.
Just a thought for when school is over and you're ready: working remotely/from home is a great alternative to going outside, this is what I do and I feel super comfy working in pajamas but still having a full time job
I had never heard mental illness being described like a broken bone before. That analogy really stuck out to me. In all of my years struggling with depression, this is the first time I've felt at peace about my situation. Thank you for your thoughtful words and encouragement.
can't get over how great of a speech this video was, 15 min?didn't feel that long as every single thing you said was so well said and interesting, congrats for your progress, much love from France 👋
This video got me so close to tears because no one around me understands this. I'm working full time and I'm exhausted.. but I get yelled at for relaxing on my days off.. I just feel stuck and not quite sure what to do.. I feel like I fell down that hole I didn't want to go back into. Like I'm on T and still feel the exact same.. You are such a strong plant Aaron and you give me so much hope that one day I'll be able to feel a little bit better. Archie
First... GOSH DARN IT AARON! Now I'm crying. Second... Thank you, this was amazing and very helpful. Third... YOU GOT A 100%! I'M SO PROUD OF YOU! CONGRATULATIONS!
You made me feel less of a waste of human life, like, you said what I was needing to hear in order to stop blaming myself for not being capable of doing stuff and feeling exhausted all the time. Thank you, Aaron 💛
Aaron, thank you a lot for the video! You're explaining all the stuff about depression and the right ways to cure it so well. I've heard much to to think on. And I've heared much reassuring and sane thoughts. Your words have helped to loose some mental tension that lasted for a long time. That's very great to hear you sharing your experience. I guess people, who take part in group psychotherapy, experience something of similar kind when they hear the stories of others. It would be awesome if you decide to continue making videos like that. Take care! And lots of love from Russia :)
Oh my gosh, I love the cute clouds! Also loving your glasses and SnapBack! Your broken bone metaphor really helps me understand healing after depression.
Im not even super sure why but ‘i am an important plant and so are you’ actually brought a tear to my eye lol. This is a great video you really worded out a lot of what im going through in a way ive never heard before but i was super able to internalize, thank you so much
Hi Aaron I just wanted to tell you that this video has me in straight up floods of tears. 2 and a half years ago I got sick, I had a virus, it was life threatening. I've been left with chronic (constant) migraines and chronic fatigue. I lost everything from this illness. I am as a result extremely depressed and I really know what rock bottom feels like. Over the past 6 months though, I planted MY seed... I've been trying REALLY hard. I got back into my drawing and I slowly built to where I'd do 12 hours a week of art that I'd previously been too sick to do AT ALL, I even started swimming again. I cannot swim anything like I used to, I used to swim a mile 3 times a week, but I built up, and now I can swim 14 (not full size) lengths (but still!). I have however had another dip, in my mental health. Starting to swim again meant my energy was too depleted to draw, and now I find myself hitting 4 hours a week if that. I've been really miserable, feeling that I have to chose between rebuilding my hand at art, and rebuilding my body. I feel like I'm going to fail.. But seeing you. Knowing you've gone through something not too distant to what I went through, and you came out of the other side... It gives me hope. So I'm going to try and take a leaf out of your sprout and stop beating myself up. I will try to draw, and if I only manage 4 hours, then I will take the attitude that HEY, I STILL DID FOUR HOURS OF ART. I will try to congratulate myself on the small things I manage. I'll tell you how it goes.
As a person with a disability and depression/anxiety and ADHD. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia and it took me 7 years to be diagnosed because I was told my pain was only in my head because I have depression. I very much needed this talk. You seem like such a wonderful human. Thank you for all you do! Keep growing little sprout!
Thank you for this video💙 Your videos, your instagram posts and the You're so brave podcast is getting me through a depressive episode I'm experiencing at the moment. Thank you! 🌱
I’ve kinda came to the same conclusion that I can’t Necessarily handle the same workload as ‘normal’ people because of my panic attacks and constant anxiety (I think I have a panic disorder but I’m talking to my psychologist). I’m repeating year 11 kinda ashamed that I can’t be fully normal I have to do online school because doing typical school makes me excessively tried and unable to do anything for the rest of the day. I’m still just trying to work around my panic attacks but I now have the attitude that while I may not be able to be normal I will graduate and achieve what I want in my own way, it may take a lot longer but I will do it. I thank both you and chase (as well as shit tons of therapy lol) for helping me come to this ‘realisation’ you’ve helped me more than you could ever know. 💕
I’m so glad that you are doing better and I just want to say thanks for the “little house plant” thing at the end because was something that I really needed to hear.
I understand what you have been through and continue to go through. I have had similar experiences with mental and physical health. Isn't amazing to see life through different eyes once you have the tools and knowledge to help you. You are an amazing human being and I appreciate the time you took to share you story with us. Love Aaron.
I feel like that's one of the first steps in recovery. Acknowledging the little accomplishments like getting out of bed, taking a shower, and even making the bed. Drinking water. Those little steps give you the energy to take bigger steps, because you know you're doing SOMETHING. Though with chronic pain and chronic fatigue it's not possible to do EVERYTHING people want you to do, but even that doesn't matter. You are your own success, YOU define it, not them. And that just gives you so much more power and confidence.
I've also been dealing with depression and recently got diagnosed with ADD and got put on medication for it and it has worked better than any of the antidepressants I've tried!
This makes so much sense. I was given the ‘cast and crutches’ but I was always on my feet. I never gave myself the chance to rest and heal. I always thought that I needed to be happy immediately after finishing therapy the first time, but I just ended up making ‘my broken bone mend improperly’. I wasn’t ready to just jump back in to being 200% happy 24/7 and now I’m back in therapy. I don’t know how to stay off my feet. I’m a high schooler, so I’m always busy with schoolwork or cleaning and getting up early even when I’m to depressed. It’s difficult, but I’m willing to work hard now that this video showed me that I’m not ‘unrepairable’ I just need more time than I gave myself. Thank you Aaron xx
Thank you for this video. I really needed it! You had so many excellent points. Also? The broken leg metaphor? Can that be on some merch, because I would buy it and wear the heck out of it. I’m so happy you’re doing much better!
I just found your channel this afternoon, and you're totally gonna be my new binge channel for the next while. But I gotta say about this video in particular: thank you. Nothing that you said here is particularly NEW to me, but something about the way in which you said it and the fact that you're saying it about YOURSELF made it click inside me in a way that it hadn't before. I've had kind-hearted people, including my own partner, saying some of this stuff to me for years, but my brain has always dumped it into the category of "this is how people respond in order to not be assholes; it doesn't mean it's actually okay for you to give yourself time/space." I think hearing someone assert these things on their own behalf made them feel more valid and believable.
Seeing you grow as a person and heal ever since u started doing the podcast with Chase has honestly given us so much♡ as somebody whose mental health issues have been steadily sh*t over the last couple of years, I can't even tell you how affirming and amazing the things you're saying are ♡ I so appreciate the way you advocate for taking things slowly, listening to yourself, not letting doctors n shitty advice get you down and being proud of the small things. ♡ thanks Aaron !
Thanks for the house plant analogy at the end Aaron. I struggle a lot with feeling that because i can't do what everyone else does because of my anxiety and depression, that i'm not as strong or as worthy as them. But you helped me think about how we are all different and it's okay to take your time and if it will be harder, you can still reach things. ❤️
Lovely video!! It's also good to know that its different for everybody. For some people allowing themselves to rest and not push themselves too hard is the way to manage your depression, but for me it was quite the opposite. I had to fake it til i made it, basically i just pretended to myself that i was happy and did all the things i wouldve done if i was happy (for example; cook dinner, hang out with friends, go outside etc)
Ah.. you are just such a flower. Thank you for this video. I find myself in such an eerily similar situation, and am happy to hear you're doing better honey. Sending love.
Your broken leg analogy is so so so true and important! I'm currently at the point where I have that broken leg but the crutches are out of reach. 3 times I tried to reach out to therapists but neither of them fit, and it took an immense amount of energy each time to accept the failure and search for a new one while keeping my grades. So now I've decided to take a break from uni for a semester to regain some energy to at least be able to eat and sleep somewhat normally again. I really hope that after that timeout I'll have it in me to search for help until I get it. You have no idea how much it means to hear that taking a break isn't weak and sometimes even necessary. Thank you!
This was such a good video Aaron, thank you for making this! You've managed to explain stuff that I've been trying to put into words for so many years. And I'm so glad you're doing better
This is all so true, thank you for this video. It's wild how just getting on the right medication can change everything! I just got on some meds and finally feel like an actual human being again and its like wow I can do things?? So proud of you, you're awesome, hope you're doing well man
Thanks so much for this video. If you don't mind, I will show it to my therapist to get us back to pacing the learning curve so it is not such an uphill struggle.
Aaron I love that plant metaphor. I'm currently struggling to get back into work bc my legs have been in pain for a long time and I know if I go back I'll just get worse, but I'm getting pushback from my parents about doing one thing with friends every week or so. Its frustrating
This is such an amazing video. Everything you've ever said on depression has been relatable, on the podcast and otherwise... and this feels like the ultimate compilation of them. This is exactly what families and friends need to see to understand their loved ones that suffer with depression. What's more, is that I was diagnosed with ADHD and have never been given meds for it. Gonna ask my doctor if it's plausible, especially since my issues seem to mirror yours almost exactly. Thank you so much for this video
Thank you for your video. Depression is hard to face and it feels good earing your story. When I'm depressed it's like I forget than I can be happy again (like I KNOW it, but I don't FEEL it, anyway...).I'm happy for you that you found the right doctor and the right support and tools in order to get better!
I've been having a really rough time lately with my own depression. I don't have health insurance or money so I don't have any way to get medicine or other help and I have little to no support. That said, seeing someone I admire who has a lot of the same conditions that I do getting better gives me a little bit of hope that maybe soon I can get better too. I'm not crying, you're crying...
I really love this video. I have depression for 14 years now and I nearly heard it all what there is to hear about this topic. But this video has so SO many good points. I really want to send this to some people just for them to understand more. Especially the part with the broken leg.
This is exactly what I needed right now, so thank you! I feel like I am where you were 2 years ago and you are where Im working towards with the help of my counsellor and doctor. Im struggling to stay in work full time, but am finally seeing a psychiatrist to help my doctor whos questioning my depression+anxiety diagnosis. Currently looking towards bipolar, and ive been doing my own research and think I may have aspergers as well. There's something wrong with my arm that no one can explain, so it must be in my head....Its all so much and im feeling very lost and exhausted.
Aaron, you have come such along way since I’ve met you. You have more confidence in every video you do. You are a strong and beautiful houseplant and you are going to continue to do better and better. I love to see that! Love you so much 💙💜🤗🌱
Gosh this made me so happy. Thankyou for making this video its awesome to hear you're doing better and thriving as a lil house plant! I often mentaly beat myself up because Im studying at uni part time and am taking a lot longer to do my degree than most because of my mental illnesses so this video meant a lot to me.
I love this so much. I have several diagnosis and one of them is major depressive disorder. Even when I’m not particularly depressed, I still have so many symptoms. I have a LOT of shame and self hate for not maintaining relationships, not cleaning as much as I need to, not taking a shower as much, but these are things that are so difficult for me to physically do. I also have physical disabilities which complicates thing. But the bad thing for me is that I’m unable to take medicine because I have medically induced bipolar 2 disorder which is basically bipolar disorder that is triggered by mental health medications. So I try to get rid of one problem and gain another one. So it’s infuriating to get the comments you have said on this video. “Just go exercise” “just think positively” “force yourself to get up and do things. You’re just lazy. It’s all about self discipline and self will” And neither of those things are going to be accessible to me or work. It’s so frustrating how much is not understood about mental illness and how it can sometimes intersect with physical disabilities as well.
Hi Aaron. You did an amazing job explaining the nuances of depression and how serious it is and also having physical disabilities and how serious they are. People that have never experienced severe depression have no clue what were talking about. Like you said oh just think positively you need to reframe your thoughts Etc you can't even do that until you get the proper medication to bring you to a level where you can do the work. I just loved everything you said how you presented it was really nice and yes I would love to hear you talk on these things more because I was a sufferer of severe depression and I know that feeling of just how horrible it is and how black and dark and heavy. EDS is a very serious disorder I know someone who's in the hospital all the time because of it it can affect many other parts of your body not just your joints. So you're dealing with multiple things just like I am I am disabled physically and I have a mental illness so I feel cutting yourself some slack not putting high expectations on ourselves but just doing what we can do and like you said giving yourself a pat on the back for everything you do no matter what you get accomplished. Thank you so much for this video you did a great job and I'm glad you're feeling better
Hey, Aaron, I remembered this and I wanted to thank you but I don't really have social media so I'm leaving this comment. I met you at the Philly Trans Health Conference this year. I talked to you a lot, and at one point I offered you one of my fidget toys. You politely declined and I wanted to thank you because it really helped me realize how much of an issue I have with giving away things I need because I want people to like me. It was so simple and I'm sure you didn't know how much you were helping, but I constantly give past the point where I have nothing left and it's really negatively affected me in the past. Now that I have actually thought about it I'm starting to work on it, so thank you very much. Mica (he/him)
It drives me CRAZY when I hear about people having trouble being diagnosed. Dr's telling us it's 'all in our heads'. I've had extreme pain and fatigue for YEARS!! I was treated like it was all in my head by EVERYONE, including family members. Treating me like I'm just lazy. Well...I kept FIGHTING tooth and nail for a diagnosis....and guess what? I have cancer. And lucky for me, it's non aggressive cancer because if it had been aggressive, I'd already be dead, or close to it. At this point, I'm not sure how out of control they've let it become...they discovered it purely by accident during an mri for nerve damage. I guess my point is....if you KNOW something is wrong, and nobody is taking you seriously....fight!!! If I hadn't fought for my diagnosis, I'd still literally be living with cancer....with no treatment....and I'd still have NO idea why I have debilitating pain and fatigue. People would still be treating me like it's all in my head. Today I can't even get out of my bed. Imagine how I felt on days like today...being told there was nothing wrong with me. Even I was starting to believe that I was just lazy. Ugh....it makes me so angry. Sorry for the rant. I'm glad you're feeling better, Aaron!
Mick Oh my god Mick, this just breaks my heart. How could they not find it for so long? You poor thing - I know that feeling of being in pain, but basically being told it’s all in your head. Why would anyone make up being in pain and suffer needlessly. My heart goes out to you buddy. You must be so angry and hurt. I’m so sorry. How are you doing now? From an interested little plant in Australia :)
Depression is my mantra right now and I'm going through therapy to get more help. Thank you Aaron :) You're awesome Aaron, please make more of these videos, I'm on the same journey you are, and I'm hoping to at least give my care team more suggestions that you have to help them help me in my journey :) *SPROUT* I'm on my laptop and it doesn't have emojis!
"Back up a couple of scented candles and bath bombs and namaste's" 😂😂
"Improperly mend itself"
That really spoke to me.
I am a houseplant too and happy that I found you. Take your time and keep growing, little sprout 🌱💙😊
There are SO MANY important points in this video! Thank you very much for this dear Aaron! 💜💛💜💛
Okay but the way his voice gets when he´s exited makes me giggle like a toddler
That plant analogy is perfection
Im bipolar with schizo-effective disorder. I so felt like you were talking to me in this video. I often need to be reminded that it is okay to need my meds. That it does not make me weak or less than to need meds and help. Thank you Aaron
100 percent Aaron brag away hunni thats a incredible achievement. And well done on this video topic.being so open and honest about your experiences will help so many that relate to not feel alone.great job
we're all working on ourselves and we're all beautiful. Thank you Aaron
"I'm not doing nothing, I'm healing" - wow!! So well put! In a society obsessed with productivity, it's a revolutionary act to just take time to put oneself back together.
Can you put the entire broken leg section on a t-shirt so I can wear it to work every day?
Your experience with EDS is actually a good analogy for mental health diagnoses too. I feel white hot rage at people, especially therapists, who are against diagnosing because they don't want to "label" people. With a diagnosis you're able to get help and develop strategies that actually work! You know your limits, what you can and can't do. I spent about a year running in circles with a therapist who just wouldn't help me, when I came across ADHD and realized it fit me she actually discouraged me from seeing a psychiatrist. Needless to say I dumped her and found a doctor and a new therapist. I was also pretty depressed and medication has been a game changer. Don't even get me started on the big pharma conspiracies. Anyway, glad to see you doing better!
L Leitenperger Actually, could you get started on the big pharma conspiracies? I’m so conflicted about it all, and would like to hear some hopefully balanced thoughts!
Hi Aaron! I’m a fairly new sub, I found you through Ty Turner.
I suffer from depression also. In my opinion, you have the right outlook on everything.
Keep implementing what you need to in order to overcome the depression.
Side note: I think you’re very handsome. Lots of love and hugs!!!!
I’m absolutely saving this in my brain to bring to people to help explain my mental illnesses and my growth. I love the plant analogy, we’re a few lil houseplants working to get big and strong together
I admire you for being so persistent and you seem so certain about it all, that's so awesome! After some struggling (thanks, social anxiety) I "broke up" with my therapist just two days ago and want to start looking for a new one soon, so your words came at a wonderful time to reassure me. Thank you for your words. Seeing you be so kind is a reminder for me to be kind to myself as well. ❤
This is genuinely the best video on depression I've ever watched. I feel like I should be taking notes.
This was such a beautiful and inspiring video Aaron! It makes me so happy to see you thriving and this was exactly what I’d like to say to non depressed people about the condition
YAY I GOT AN AD! I'LL ALWAYS WATCH 5 MIN ADS FOR YOU, AARON. ♡
I really enjoyed this video because it gave me motivation to do productive things that will set up my life for the future. I also really appreciated the plant metaphor it made me think of Aaron as a small succulent in the windowsill.
Wow, this is a great video! Totally love you broken leg and plant analogies. They work so well. Congrats on your 100%! Real proof that when you look after the plant, the plant will flourish. Peace.
Such a well phrased explanation of how you felt and your recovery! I love you analogies. I just read an account of an ESD sufferer and how medical cannabis has helped her with pain relief/no pain. Here in Britain it is not available, but was just in the news as a mother made it v. public as she brought it back from Canada (CBD oil) to help her severely epileptic son. I have just discovered your channel, so do not know how you think about using cannabis or have you ever explored this option?
I have been struggling with the depression side of bipolar for a while now. I ended up going on short term disability. I am now getting ready to go back to work. I really needed this video to help me accept what is going on and know that it was ok to take the time off to help heal a little.
"that was me i was a little plant...im a sickly little plant"
aaron i have never related more to a thought ever. i needed to watch this today and hear that its okay for me to be sick and need time. thank you. i appreciate you so much
The plant metaphor is so important it helped me realize that I was expecting too much from my self and that I do need more breaks, resources, etc. I was forcing myself to handle too much and acting as if I’m stronger than I currently am.
Just a thought for when school is over and you're ready: working remotely/from home is a great alternative to going outside, this is what I do and I feel super comfy working in pajamas but still having a full time job
Roxi C That is so great Roxi! What job are you able to do from home? I would live in my pyjamas if I could!!
I had never heard mental illness being described like a broken bone before. That analogy really stuck out to me. In all of my years struggling with depression, this is the first time I've felt at peace about my situation. Thank you for your thoughtful words and encouragement.
can't get over how great of a speech this video was, 15 min?didn't feel that long as every single thing you said was so well said and interesting, congrats for your progress, much love from France 👋
This video got me so close to tears because no one around me understands this. I'm working full time and I'm exhausted.. but I get yelled at for relaxing on my days off.. I just feel stuck and not quite sure what to do.. I feel like I fell down that hole I didn't want to go back into. Like I'm on T and still feel the exact same.. You are such a strong plant Aaron and you give me so much hope that one day I'll be able to feel a little bit better.
Archie
First... GOSH DARN IT AARON! Now I'm crying.
Second... Thank you, this was amazing and very helpful.
Third... YOU GOT A 100%! I'M SO PROUD OF YOU! CONGRATULATIONS!
The plant metaphor just made me very happy for no special reason. Thanks for that.
You made me feel less of a waste of human life, like, you said what I was needing to hear in order to stop blaming myself for not being capable of doing stuff and feeling exhausted all the time. Thank you, Aaron 💛
Aaron, thank you a lot for the video! You're explaining all the stuff about depression and the right ways to cure it so well. I've heard much to to think on. And I've heared much reassuring and sane thoughts. Your words have helped to loose some mental tension that lasted for a long time. That's very great to hear you sharing your experience. I guess people, who take part in group psychotherapy, experience something of similar kind when they hear the stories of others. It would be awesome if you decide to continue making videos like that. Take care! And lots of love from Russia :)
Oh my gosh, I love the cute clouds! Also loving your glasses and SnapBack!
Your broken bone metaphor really helps me understand healing after depression.
Im not even super sure why but ‘i am an important plant and so are you’ actually brought a tear to my eye lol. This is a great video you really worded out a lot of what im going through in a way ive never heard before but i was super able to internalize, thank you so much
Hi Aaron I just wanted to tell you that this video has me in straight up floods of tears. 2 and a half years ago I got sick, I had a virus, it was life threatening. I've been left with chronic (constant) migraines and chronic fatigue. I lost everything from this illness. I am as a result extremely depressed and I really know what rock bottom feels like. Over the past 6 months though, I planted MY seed... I've been trying REALLY hard. I got back into my drawing and I slowly built to where I'd do 12 hours a week of art that I'd previously been too sick to do AT ALL, I even started swimming again. I cannot swim anything like I used to, I used to swim a mile 3 times a week, but I built up, and now I can swim 14 (not full size) lengths (but still!). I have however had another dip, in my mental health. Starting to swim again meant my energy was too depleted to draw, and now I find myself hitting 4 hours a week if that. I've been really miserable, feeling that I have to chose between rebuilding my hand at art, and rebuilding my body. I feel like I'm going to fail.. But seeing you. Knowing you've gone through something not too distant to what I went through, and you came out of the other side... It gives me hope. So I'm going to try and take a leaf out of your sprout and stop beating myself up. I will try to draw, and if I only manage 4 hours, then I will take the attitude that HEY, I STILL DID FOUR HOURS OF ART. I will try to congratulate myself on the small things I manage. I'll tell you how it goes.
That leg metaphor was spot on. Thanks for making this Aaron
Its so cool to see you in a better place✊✊❤️❤️
As a person with a disability and depression/anxiety and ADHD. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia and it took me 7 years to be diagnosed because I was told my pain was only in my head because I have depression. I very much needed this talk. You seem like such a wonderful human. Thank you for all you do! Keep growing little sprout!
Omg the plant metaphor was too perfect 🌱 keep growing my friend!
Thank you for this video💙 Your videos, your instagram posts and the You're so brave podcast is getting me through a depressive episode I'm experiencing at the moment. Thank you! 🌱
I’ve kinda came to the same conclusion that I can’t Necessarily handle the same workload as ‘normal’ people because of my panic attacks and constant anxiety (I think I have a panic disorder but I’m talking to my psychologist). I’m repeating year 11 kinda ashamed that I can’t be fully normal I have to do online school because doing typical school makes me excessively tried and unable to do anything for the rest of the day. I’m still just trying to work around my panic attacks but I now have the attitude that while I may not be able to be normal I will graduate and achieve what I want in my own way, it may take a lot longer but I will do it. I thank both you and chase (as well as shit tons of therapy lol) for helping me come to this ‘realisation’ you’ve helped me more than you could ever know. 💕
I’m so glad that you are doing better and I just want to say thanks for the “little house plant” thing at the end because was something that I really needed to hear.
loving the broken bone analogy and the plant one at the end
I understand what you have been through and continue to go through. I have had similar experiences with mental and physical health. Isn't amazing to see life through different eyes once you have the tools and knowledge to help you. You are an amazing human being and I appreciate the time you took to share you story with us. Love Aaron.
I feel like that's one of the first steps in recovery. Acknowledging the little accomplishments like getting out of bed, taking a shower, and even making the bed. Drinking water. Those little steps give you the energy to take bigger steps, because you know you're doing SOMETHING. Though with chronic pain and chronic fatigue it's not possible to do EVERYTHING people want you to do, but even that doesn't matter. You are your own success, YOU define it, not them. And that just gives you so much more power and confidence.
i got an ad for a mental health service / charity before this!!
I've also been dealing with depression and recently got diagnosed with ADD and got put on medication for it and it has worked better than any of the antidepressants I've tried!
This makes so much sense. I was given the ‘cast and crutches’ but I was always on my feet. I never gave myself the chance to rest and heal. I always thought that I needed to be happy immediately after finishing therapy the first time, but I just ended up making ‘my broken bone mend improperly’. I wasn’t ready to just jump back in to being 200% happy 24/7 and now I’m back in therapy. I don’t know how to stay off my feet. I’m a high schooler, so I’m always busy with schoolwork or cleaning and getting up early even when I’m to depressed. It’s difficult, but I’m willing to work hard now that this video showed me that I’m not ‘unrepairable’ I just need more time than I gave myself.
Thank you Aaron xx
This is actually really inspiring, y’know? And I love the plant metaphor, so accurate, bless
So proud of you and happy that you're feeling better with the support you need. Wonderful. ❤
Aaron you’re really making the videos that I need at this point in my life and that’s so good. You’re amazing thank you!
Thank you for this video. I really needed it! You had so many excellent points. Also? The broken leg metaphor? Can that be on some merch, because I would buy it and wear the heck out of it. I’m so happy you’re doing much better!
Plant merch would be Fab too!
I just want to be there to give you a hug. You make so much sense. Thanks just for being you Aaron.
I just found your channel this afternoon, and you're totally gonna be my new binge channel for the next while. But I gotta say about this video in particular: thank you. Nothing that you said here is particularly NEW to me, but something about the way in which you said it and the fact that you're saying it about YOURSELF made it click inside me in a way that it hadn't before. I've had kind-hearted people, including my own partner, saying some of this stuff to me for years, but my brain has always dumped it into the category of "this is how people respond in order to not be assholes; it doesn't mean it's actually okay for you to give yourself time/space." I think hearing someone assert these things on their own behalf made them feel more valid and believable.
Seeing you grow as a person and heal ever since u started doing the podcast with Chase has honestly given us so much♡ as somebody whose mental health issues have been steadily sh*t over the last couple of years, I can't even tell you how affirming and amazing the things you're saying are ♡ I so appreciate the way you advocate for taking things slowly, listening to yourself, not letting doctors n shitty advice get you down and being proud of the small things. ♡ thanks Aaron !
Thank you so for this video. You have no idea how much they help. Really struggle with this severe shit lately and I feel out of control.
This made me really emotional and I’m so glad you made this video.
You're awesome, Aaron. You and Chase helped me so much.
Thanks for the house plant analogy at the end Aaron. I struggle a lot with feeling that because i can't do what everyone else does because of my anxiety and depression, that i'm not as strong or as worthy as them. But you helped me think about how we are all different and it's okay to take your time and if it will be harder, you can still reach things. ❤️
Lovely video!! It's also good to know that its different for everybody. For some people allowing themselves to rest and not push themselves too hard is the way to manage your depression, but for me it was quite the opposite. I had to fake it til i made it, basically i just pretended to myself that i was happy and did all the things i wouldve done if i was happy (for example; cook dinner, hang out with friends, go outside etc)
Ah.. you are just such a flower. Thank you for this video. I find myself in such an eerily similar situation, and am happy to hear you're doing better honey.
Sending love.
Your broken leg analogy is so so so true and important!
I'm currently at the point where I have that broken leg but the crutches are out of reach. 3 times I tried to reach out to therapists but neither of them fit, and it took an immense amount of energy each time to accept the failure and search for a new one while keeping my grades. So now I've decided to take a break from uni for a semester to regain some energy to at least be able to eat and sleep somewhat normally again. I really hope that after that timeout I'll have it in me to search for help until I get it.
You have no idea how much it means to hear that taking a break isn't weak and sometimes even necessary. Thank you!
This was such a good video Aaron, thank you for making this! You've managed to explain stuff that I've been trying to put into words for so many years. And I'm so glad you're doing better
This is all so true, thank you for this video. It's wild how just getting on the right medication can change everything! I just got on some meds and finally feel like an actual human being again and its like wow I can do things?? So proud of you, you're awesome, hope you're doing well man
amazing video !
you can seriously tell that youre thriving & doing much better 🌱
Thanks so much for this video. If you don't mind, I will show it to my therapist to get us back to pacing the learning curve so it is not such an uphill struggle.
Hearing you talk about getting a 100 on your test legit brought tears to my eyes because I FEEL YOU SO hard.
Thank you. Keep fighting.
Beautiful message and I love the editing and the definition pop-ups ^_^
Aaron I love that plant metaphor. I'm currently struggling to get back into work bc my legs have been in pain for a long time and I know if I go back I'll just get worse, but I'm getting pushback from my parents about doing one thing with friends every week or so. Its frustrating
This is such an amazing video. Everything you've ever said on depression has been relatable, on the podcast and otherwise... and this feels like the ultimate compilation of them. This is exactly what families and friends need to see to understand their loved ones that suffer with depression.
What's more, is that I was diagnosed with ADHD and have never been given meds for it. Gonna ask my doctor if it's plausible, especially since my issues seem to mirror yours almost exactly.
Thank you so much for this video
Thank you for your video. Depression is hard to face and it feels good earing your story. When I'm depressed it's like I forget than I can be happy again (like I KNOW it, but I don't FEEL it, anyway...).I'm happy for you that you found the right doctor and the right support and tools in order to get better!
WATCHING ADS FOR MY SON YUS
Excellent video, bud. I really needed to hear this tbh.
I've been having a really rough time lately with my own depression. I don't have health insurance or money so I don't have any way to get medicine or other help and I have little to no support. That said, seeing someone I admire who has a lot of the same conditions that I do getting better gives me a little bit of hope that maybe soon I can get better too.
I'm not crying, you're crying...
Sometimes I forget this, also...that just making breakfast and getting the kids going is doing something...aka...the things I *must* do everyday.
I really love this video. I have depression for 14 years now and I nearly heard it all what there is to hear about this topic. But this video has so SO many good points. I really want to send this to some people just for them to understand more. Especially the part with the broken leg.
This is exactly what I needed right now, so thank you! I feel like I am where you were 2 years ago and you are where Im working towards with the help of my counsellor and doctor. Im struggling to stay in work full time, but am finally seeing a psychiatrist to help my doctor whos questioning my depression+anxiety diagnosis. Currently looking towards bipolar, and ive been doing my own research and think I may have aspergers as well. There's something wrong with my arm that no one can explain, so it must be in my head....Its all so much and im feeling very lost and exhausted.
i love this video so much, thank you man.
you lookin good today too daddi
Aaron, you have come such along way since I’ve met you. You have more confidence in every video you do. You are a strong and beautiful houseplant and you are going to continue to do better and better. I love to see that! Love you so much 💙💜🤗🌱
Gosh this made me so happy. Thankyou for making this video its awesome to hear you're doing better and thriving as a lil house plant! I often mentaly beat myself up because Im studying at uni part time and am taking a lot longer to do my degree than most because of my mental illnesses so this video meant a lot to me.
rewatching in 2020 because this is quality mental health content 💞
I'm excited because I'm going to see a therapist soon. I feel like I'm going to cry from how excited/anxious I am!
Thank you for sharing! All of it was very relatable, and I love your analogies
This is exactly how I started getting better! Hopefully this video helps others too.
I'm glad you're in a better place. I hope you continue to grow and thrive, and know that it's okay not to be okay sometimes. 💚
you really are amazing Aaron, thank you for such a wonderful video!
I love this so much. I have several diagnosis and one of them is major depressive disorder. Even when I’m not particularly depressed, I still have so many symptoms. I have a LOT of shame and self hate for not maintaining relationships, not cleaning as much as I need to, not taking a shower as much, but these are things that are so difficult for me to physically do. I also have physical disabilities which complicates thing. But the bad thing for me is that I’m unable to take medicine because I have medically induced bipolar 2 disorder which is basically bipolar disorder that is triggered by mental health medications. So I try to get rid of one problem and gain another one. So it’s infuriating to get the comments you have said on this video. “Just go exercise” “just think positively” “force yourself to get up and do things. You’re just lazy. It’s all about self discipline and self will”
And neither of those things are going to be accessible to me or work. It’s so frustrating how much is not understood about mental illness and how it can sometimes intersect with physical disabilities as well.
Hi Aaron. You did an amazing job explaining the nuances of depression and how serious it is and also having physical disabilities and how serious they are. People that have never experienced severe depression have no clue what were talking about. Like you said oh just think positively you need to reframe your thoughts Etc you can't even do that until you get the proper medication to bring you to a level where you can do the work. I just loved everything you said how you presented it was really nice and yes I would love to hear you talk on these things more because I was a sufferer of severe depression and I know that feeling of just how horrible it is and how black and dark and heavy. EDS is a very serious disorder I know someone who's in the hospital all the time because of it it can affect many other parts of your body not just your joints. So you're dealing with multiple things just like I am I am disabled physically and I have a mental illness so I feel cutting yourself some slack not putting high expectations on ourselves but just doing what we can do and like you said giving yourself a pat on the back for everything you do no matter what you get accomplished. Thank you so much for this video you did a great job and I'm glad you're feeling better
I’ve watched this video twice now. And it’s helped me so much. Thank you!
@Aaron Ansuini would it be okay if I cited your video on my blog?
Absolutely!! ❤️❤️❤️
Aaron Ansuini awesome! Thanks
I'm so happy for you! I totally noticed that's you've been happier. It def shows. Thank you for sharing. 💜
You are explaining this so well.. Thank you so much
Hey, Aaron, I remembered this and I wanted to thank you but I don't really have social media so I'm leaving this comment.
I met you at the Philly Trans Health Conference this year. I talked to you a lot, and at one point I offered you one of my fidget toys. You politely declined and I wanted to thank you because it really helped me realize how much of an issue I have with giving away things I need because I want people to like me. It was so simple and I'm sure you didn't know how much you were helping, but I constantly give past the point where I have nothing left and it's really negatively affected me in the past. Now that I have actually thought about it I'm starting to work on it, so thank you very much.
Mica (he/him)
It drives me CRAZY when I hear about people having trouble being diagnosed. Dr's telling us it's 'all in our heads'.
I've had extreme pain and fatigue for YEARS!! I was treated like it was all in my head by EVERYONE, including family members.
Treating me like I'm just lazy.
Well...I kept FIGHTING tooth and nail for a diagnosis....and guess what? I have cancer. And lucky for me, it's non aggressive cancer because if it had been aggressive, I'd already be dead, or close to it. At this point, I'm not sure how out of control they've let it become...they discovered it purely by accident during an mri for nerve damage.
I guess my point is....if you KNOW something is wrong, and nobody is taking you seriously....fight!!! If I hadn't fought for my diagnosis, I'd still literally be living with cancer....with no treatment....and I'd still have NO idea why I have debilitating pain and fatigue. People would still be treating me like it's all in my head. Today I can't even get out of my bed. Imagine how I felt on days like today...being told there was nothing wrong with me. Even I was starting to believe that I was just lazy.
Ugh....it makes me so angry. Sorry for the rant. I'm glad you're feeling better, Aaron!
Mick Oh my god Mick, this just breaks my heart. How could they not find it for so long? You poor thing - I know that feeling of being in pain, but basically being told it’s all in your head. Why would anyone make up being in pain and suffer needlessly. My heart goes out to you buddy. You must be so angry and hurt. I’m so sorry. How are you doing now? From an interested little plant in Australia :)
Gosh I love videos like this
Depression is my mantra right now and I'm going through therapy to get more help. Thank you Aaron :) You're awesome Aaron, please make more of these videos, I'm on the same journey you are, and I'm hoping to at least give my care team more suggestions that you have to help them help me in my journey :) *SPROUT* I'm on my laptop and it doesn't have emojis!
Best video ever! Thank you so much! Your metaphors really help me understand depression.
Wow! This is the second video of yours that I have watched and I think you are amazing. You should be so proud of yourself. 🌈☀️✨
I love everything about this video!
thank you so much for making this video, it resonated with me very deepy
Loving the new setup. Thank you for the very helpful video. 💜