What is Depression Trying to Tell Us?
Hi there, lovely being,
If you’ve found your way here, there’s a reason. Maybe you, or someone you care about, is feeling the weight of depression right now. First, before anything else, I want to say this—you are not alone.
Did you know that in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental illness? That’s not just a number—it means millions of us are walking through this, together. And as of 2022, more than 5 million Canadians aged 15 and older met the criteria for a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder. Behind each of those numbers is someone like you or me—carrying their own story of struggle, resilience, and the quiet hope for healing.
Whether this is something you’re facing yourself or you’re supporting someone you love through their storm, I want to recognize the courage it takes to even name it. Depression can feel overwhelming. Paralyzing, even. Like the light's gone dim and the way forward is swallowed up by the fog. But for now, just take a moment with me—one soft breath. Together, we’re going to explore a gentler way of looking at this.
You see, we’re often told that depression is something to “fix” or “fight.” It’s treated like a problem, some broken part of us we’re supposed to correct. But what if it’s not? What if depression is less about fixing and more about listening? What if it’s not a flaw, but a message—a signal from your heart, your mind, your soul, asking you to pause? To slow down. To turn inward. To realign with yourself.
I know—seeing it that way is not always easy, especially when the weight feels unbearable. But what if, here in this safe space, we allowed ourselves to pause and ask, “What is depression trying to tell me?” It might soften the edges just enough to make space for hope, for healing, and for the belief that you’re not broken—you’re transforming.
Let’s take this step together.
What Is Depression Trying to Tell Us?
Can we just take a moment together? If you’ve landed here, there’s a good chance either you’re feeling the heavy weight of depression, or someone you love is, and…that’s hard. It’s exhausting, overwhelming, and so deeply personal. First, I want to say—you’re not alone. Truly. We’re here in this moment together.
Depression can show up in so many ways. Maybe it feels like a constant sadness that doesn’t lift, no matter what you do, or like you’re just…numb. Maybe it’s an exhaustion that sleep doesn’t fix, or the sense that life’s just lost its color, its spark. It can look different for each of us, but if we pause—really pause—what if it’s trying to tell us something?
For some, depression might be saying, “You need to rest.” Maybe life has asked too much for too long, and now your body and mind are just begging for a break. For others, it might be a nudge to reconnect with something that’s been forgotten—passions, values, or even your own needs. Or maybe it’s pointing to an old hurt—something unresolved, unhealed—that’s ready to be seen and mended. Whatever it’s trying to say, depression is asking for our attention, saying, “Hey, something inside needs care.”
And if you’re here to support someone you love, I know that’s no small thing either. It’s painful to watch someone you care about hurting. You just want to take it all away, to make it better. But depression doesn’t really work like that, does it? There’s no quick fix. Sometimes, all you can really do is sit with them, offer your presence, and remind them that they’re not alone. And trust me, that’s enough. You don’t have to solve everything to be a source of comfort.
2. Why Does Depression Happen?
There’s no single answer to why depression happens—it’s not a one-size-fits-all thing. But often, it’s tied to something deeper.
Emotional and Mental Struggles
Sometimes, depression shows up because we’ve been carrying unspoken pain for too long. It could be unprocessed feelings or the constant pressure to meet everyone else’s expectations while ignoring what we need. That mismatch—between who we are and who the world expects us to be—it takes a toll, doesn’t it?
The Energy We Carry
On a different level, depression might be about stuck energy. Like when you’ve been holding back tears for so long that it feels impossible to cry. It’s often a sign that we’ve been denying parts of ourselves—our emotions, our truths—and now it’s time to face them, little by little.
The Pause Button
And maybe, just maybe, depression is like life hitting a giant pause button. It’s saying, “Slow down. Take a breath. Look at what’s really happening here.” It’s hard, sure, but it can also be an invitation to realign with what truly matters, to figure out what we need to feel whole again.
3. Tangible Ways to Move Yourself Forward
I know healing can feel overwhelming, like you don’t even know where to start. But it doesn’t have to be about big, sweeping changes. What if we start small? What if, instead of fighting your way out, you gently meet yourself—or someone you love—exactly where you are? Here’s how we can start, step by step.
1. Feel What You Need to Feel
This might sound simple, but it’s not always easy. Give yourself permission to feel exactly what you’re feeling—sadness, frustration, numbness—whatever it is. Those feelings don’t define you, okay? You’re not a burden because you’re feeling this way. Be as kind to yourself as you would be to a friend.
2. Little Acts of Care
When everything feels too big, try starting with something small. Drink a glass of water. Take a deep breath. Step outside and feel the sun on your face, if you can. Even writing down one kind thing about yourself—“I made it through today”—can soothe the moment. These aren’t cures, but they’re little anchors that remind you you’re here, and you’re trying.
3. Reaching Out
Depression has this sneaky way of making us feel alone, doesn’t it? Like no one could possibly understand. But the truth is, connection helps. If it feels safe, talk to someone—a close friend, a family member, or even a group where people do get it. And if that feels like too much, know that just sharing space with someone—even sitting in silence—can be a step toward healing.
If you’re looking for a community, we’d love to welcome you into ours. At Reignite Your Soul or Studio 32, we host events both online and in Peterborough, ON where people gather not just to heal—but to feel seen, understood, and supported. Many of us have been where you are, and we built these spaces to remind you that, no matter what, you’re never alone in this.
4. Ask Yourself What You Need
When’s the last time you asked yourself, “What do I need right now?” Not what you think you should be doing—what you actually need. Maybe it’s a warm bath or a moment in nature. Maybe it’s a hug, a walk, or just sitting with your fur baby and breathing. Your needs are valid. Give yourself what feels right for you.
5. Try Holistic Supports
Gentle practices like breathwork, journaling, or yoga can be grounding. They’re not quick fixes, but they can help create a little space for healing. Even a walk outside—letting your mind wander among the trees or the waves—can bring a sense of calm.
6. Professional Support Is a Strength
Reaching out for professional help—whether it’s a therapist, coach, or healer—is one of the bravest things you can do. Seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an act of self-love. And when you find the right person to guide you, they can help you uncover depression’s deeper messages, giving you tools to move forward.
4. Helping Someone We Love Experiencing Depression
If you’re supporting someone through depression, I just want you to know—it’s okay if this feels hard. You might not know the “perfect” thing to say, and that’s okay. Your patience and presence mean everything. Listen when they want to talk, sit with them when they don’t, and remind them that they’re not alone.
But don’t forget about yourself. Carrying someone else’s pain is heavy, and you matter, too. It’s okay to step back when you need to. Fill your own cup, because you can’t pour from empty.
We’ve even created a blog to help supporters like you—filled with ideas and practices for navigating this path while caring for yourself, too.
5. Walking the Path Toward Healing
If you’re ready to explore a gentle, holistic approach to healing, we’d love to walk this path with you. At Reignite Your Soul, we offer emotional clearing sessions, yoga classes, and energy healing to help you reconnect with the healthiest, happiest version of yourself. This isn’t about fixing you—because you’re not broken. It’s about helping you realign with the vibrant, whole person you already are.
Visit our website or book a consultation to take your first step.
And above all, be gentle with yourself. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Every small move you make—every drink of water, every breath, every moment of connection—it all matters.
You’re not alone in this. You’re healing, growing, and stronger than you know. One day, step by step, you’ll go from walking to running, from running to flying.
We see you. We believe in you. And we’re here, always. 🌱
Sources for Statistics
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): "In any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental illness." https://www.camh.ca/en/driving-change/the-crisis-is-real/mental-health-statistics
Statistics Canada (2022): "Over 5 million Canadians aged 15 and older met the diagnostic criteria for a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder." https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-627-m/11-627-m2023053-eng.htm
Mental Health Crisis Line Canada: https://cmha.ca/find-help/if-you-are-in-crisis/
Statistics Canada (2025) Health Reports: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/250115/dq250115d-eng.htm
Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your mental health or that of a loved one.
If you are in crisis or believe you may harm yourself or others, please seek immediate help by contacting a crisis hotline, your local emergency services, or visiting the nearest hospital. You are not alone, and support is available to help you through this difficult time.
