Hello. My name is Matt Denner and I suffer from depression. To be more specific, I experience a sort of constant, low-level depression, known as dysthymic disorder. And really, I don’t so much suffer from depression as live through it.

I was first diagnosed with depression when I was in third grade, and came back to therapy in high school.

I was later hospitalized for depression just after graduating from high school. I had made plans to commit suicide, but checked myself into a hospital instead. Since that time I have taken three medications, seen four more therapists and faced a number of days where I have trouble doing much more than stepping out of bed for breakfast.

You may wonder why I decided that I should tell you these things today, or at all. Some of you are probably imagining I’m some sort of freak, while others believe that I’m just whining and should get over whatever is bothering me.

The rest of you deserve some credit for knowing that the stereotypes surrounding depression just don’t fit. Although our society has achieved amazing progress breaking down many of the barriers the mentally ill face in seeking treatment, a stigma surrounds depression along with other forms of illness that must be recognized and eliminated.

During the time I was hospitalized, I actually called up a television program paid for by Steve Forbes as he asked for votes in the Iowa Republican caucuses in 1999.

When I asked the operator in the studio what Steve Forbes could do to put an end to the stereotypes surrounding mental illness, he responded by hanging up the phone. Even if our politicians refuse to respond, though, I hope we can help each other understand that those who suffer from depression are a varied lot full of beautiful and able-bodied people, some of whom you already know.

When I explain to people that I have dealt with depression, often I am met with shock. Friends don’t believe that someone who always seems to be laughing and working to make others happy could feel so unhappy when no one is looking.

People often expect those who are depressed to live sad lives in the darkness, or at least to wear darker clothes. Unfortunately, though, sometimes when I tell acquaintances that I have dealt with depression, they forget who I am and superimpose their idea of depression onto me.

The National Mental Health Association estimates 19 million Americans suffer from depression. The illness does not choose its victims according to social, political, racial or economic backgrounds and pays little mind to age.

Depression can take the form of depressive episodes that may end naturally or require treatment, leaving the victim with few long-term effects.

Other victims will experience symptoms of depression for the rest of their lives, but these symptoms can be treated with therapy and medication, and their impact on victims, families and friends made far lighter.

Many people who have faced or are facing depression hold down normal jobs, have a strong group of friends surrounding them, are overachievers and come from loving families. I grew up participating in loads of extracurricular activities, spent time hanging out with friends on the weekends, scored well academically and received a scholarship to attend Iowa State. Nonetheless, I face constant self-doubt, nearly always feel tired, often keep things to myself and become debilitated at times by worry.

I understand that these symptoms of depression are elements of my life, and that treatment can help me reduce the impact they have on my life. In the meantime, as I receive treatment and fight against myself to live a happier life, my life right now isn’t altogether a very sad one. I am still surrounded by friends and family who care about me and still enjoy learning about all the great things within this world.

If you know someone who lives with depression, or live with it yourself, you must understand that all of us are not the same and will not face the same trials and triumphs.

After all, few of us started out the same, even without living through depression. With treatment, we can maintain our differences, but learn to live happier lives. Although the forms of treatment are extremely varied, it is possible to find a form of treatment that is right for you.

Just as there is no shame for those who seek treatment to repair a broken leg, there should be no shame for those who wish to feel happy again.

However, we must all realize that there should also be no shame in feeling unhappy about the things we can’t control. There should only be shame when we do not realize that we cannot all live the same lives.