Feeling bad, empty, or not sick enough after sharing your depression with your best friend can be a complex emotional response. It's important to remember that everyone's emotional experiences are unique, and there could be several reasons why you might be feeling this way:
Validation and understanding: When we open up to someone about our struggles, we often seek validation and understanding. If your friend's response didn't meet your expectations or you felt they didn't fully understand the depth of your emotions, it could leave you feeling empty or disappointed.
Fear of judgment: Sharing your depression can make you feel vulnerable, and if you worry about how your friend perceives you or fears judgment, it can lead to feelings of emptiness or insecurity.
Unmet emotional needs: If you were hoping for a certain reaction or response from your friend and it didn't happen, it can leave you feeling emotionally unfulfilled or not supported enough.
Comparing struggles: Sometimes, when sharing our struggles, we might compare them to others' experiences. If you felt that your friend's response implied that your depression wasn't as severe as theirs or someone else's, it could make you question the validity of your emotions.
Inadequate communication: Sometimes, friends may not know how to respond appropriately to someone's disclosure of depression. It's possible that your friend might not have known how to react or offer the support you needed.
High expectations: It's common to have high expectations when sharing something deeply personal. If your friend didn't react the way you anticipated, it might leave you feeling disappointed.
It's essential to remember that your friend's response might not necessarily reflect their care for you or their ability to support you. People respond differently to difficult emotional conversations, and they may not always know how to handle such situations effectively.
If you find that sharing with your friend didn't provide the support you needed, consider talking to a mental health professional. They are trained to listen, understand, and provide appropriate guidance and support for dealing with depression. Additionally, support groups and online communities can also offer a sense of understanding and belonging from individuals who have similar experiences. Remember that seeking help and support is a sign of strength, and there are resources available to assist you through difficult times.