I made this post yesterday on my Instagram story, and it seemed to resonate with a lot of folks. This might be because, inherently, A LOT of individuals out there struggle with depression, or there may be some selection bias as powerlifters and fitness industry folks tend to battle self esteem demons quite a bit. Maybe this path simply seems more inviting because of the inherent reward system built in based on hard work, and value placed on your body/performance.
Depression is a constant. Many people seem to be stuck on "cures" and the one quick thing to FIX something that is wrong with you. Being depressed or struggling with your mentality is not something that needs to be fixed. It is a built in part of you as an individual, it is merely something you need to identify and work to beat. I tend to be very apathetic, uncaring, and cold when I am faced with difficult situations. Some view this as stoic and admirable, but knowing myself, I know this is a weakness and a defense mechanism as my brain rationalizes the behavior as "If you don't feel anything, you won't get hurt."
This is my natural state. That is not something I like about myself. I have to realize this everyday, and work at becoming a better version of myself. Similarly to training, and taking pride/ownership in what you are doing. Identifying your failures or shortcomings, and taking actionable steps to become better at them. You are the master of your own destiny, and although the world seems to work against you sometimes, there are millions of others who feel that exact same pressure every day. This is not meant to make you feel small, but rather made to make you feel powerful. I know I can change, I know I have control over that, and I know what I need to do so. That's some of the most powerful stuff out there.
Emotional action is not always my best course, but the hardest thing I can do is let my rational being be affected by my emotion, and consider that as a factor when I make decisions. I struggle with it even now, as I write this post, because I am self conscious about putting my thoughts out there whether it be about mental illness, or the direction the sport of powerlifting is taking.
There are EliteFTS teammates that struggle with depression. There are clients, and there are partners. They are everywhere and despite my own personal apathy, knowing that people reach out to me after posts like this encourage me to continue to do so, and let feeling into my thinking because I stand by the motto of this company. To Live, Learn, and Pass On. This is not just a training mantra, but a life mantra. There are always people seeking help, guidance, or just a conversation. The easiest thing to do is provide that to them. Time is valuable, and so is effort. Take a step every day to show another person that you value them by allowing some of your own personal time and effort into their lives.