Why talk about it?
Because it needs to be talked about!
Why talk about it?
Because now, I can!
I’ve been silent in the past
Perpetuating the code of silence
But it’s easier to talk about it now
Having made peace with who I am

Why talk about it?
Because there are too many misconceptions out there
And silence perpetuates them!

Why talk about it?
To give others courage and permission to do the same!

Why talk about it?
To chip away at the stigma of depression and anxiety
These all too present chapters in our lives
That we rather skip, deny or forget!

Why talk about it?
Because anything that comes to light
Is not as scary as when it is lurking in the dark

Why talk about it?
So others know they are not alone
To let them know that there are answers out there
That there is light at the end of this tunnel of darkness!

Why talk about it?
So others know I understand their pain
Their suffering, their feeling of helplessness and hopelessness
I understand how much courage it takes
To keep going despite the constant pain!

Why talk about it?
Because it needs to be talked about
Because we need to break the code of silence
We need to speak out, so others can as well!

Lida Berghuis
November 4th, 2014