Kristen Wells, known for her vibrant and cheerful demeanor, recently took a brave step to shed light on the often-misunderstood topic of depression. Despite her image as the quintessential “girl next door,” Wells, like many, has faced her own mental health battles. In a heartfelt essay, she emphasizes that there’s no shame in experiencing depression.
In her piece on Motto, Wells recounts how her mother first taught her about the nuances of depression, encouraging her to seek help if ever the weight of “a dark cloud” loomed overhead. “You can talk to me, see a therapist, or consult a doctor. I want you to know that there are options,” her mother would say. Wells expresses gratitude for her mother’s candid approach to a subject that often remains hushed. This foundation of openness proved invaluable during her college years when she struggled with depression at NYU despite feeling there was “no logical reason” for her distress.
Initially reluctant to speak out about her experiences, Wells ultimately realized the importance of demystifying what depression truly entails. “For me, depression isn’t just sadness,” she writes. “It’s a profound sense of isolation and hopelessness. It made me feel utterly worthless, as if I had nothing to contribute.” She urges that mental health should be treated with the same seriousness as any physical ailment.
Wells’ perspective resonates with many who have faced similar feelings. Early on, she associated depression with merely feeling down or wearing sweatpants all day. It wasn’t until later that she recognized the deeper emotional turmoil—like the loneliness and self-doubt—that truly characterized her struggles. “Mental health check-ins should be as normal as visiting the doctor or dentist,” she asserts. “If you tell a friend you’re unwell, they’ll likely suggest a doctor. But if you mention feeling depressed, the response can be one of hesitation. I’m over that.”
Discussing depression can be daunting; it often convinces individuals that their experiences are isolated. However, open conversations foster understanding and encourage others to seek help. Wells emphasizes that suffering in silence does not lead to healing. As she eloquently puts it, “There’s nothing weak about grappling with mental illness. It simply means your mind is facing challenges that others may not understand. Speaking about your feelings is the first step toward recovery.”
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In summary, Kristen Wells’ candid reflections on depression serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of openness and understanding surrounding mental health. By sharing her experiences, she encourages others to speak up and not shy away from seeking help.