Paulo Avelino reminds us that depression chooses no one

Trigger warning: This article might have graphic content.

In a rather shocking yet brave post, Paulo Avelino opens up about his battle with depression in his Instagram account this afternoon. It is a gallery post with a trigger warning, followed by an image of a deep scar on his wrist, and a long message from the actor.

“Rarely do I share personal stuff on my social media accounts, but I think its time I talked about this dark period in my life because I know someone out there is going through the same thing,” his post read. Avelino discussed how his depressive episodes started, when did he begin isolating himself from his loved ones and career, and why he didn’t reach out earlier.

The reason why he opened his battle in public is to raise awareness. Avelino saw himself as an introvert, who kept his feelings and thoughts to himself. He knew there are others like him who need a helping hand in this fight against their personal demons.

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(Warning graphic content, content that can trigger those who suffer from depression and other mental illnesses) RARELY do I share personal stuff on my social media accounts but I think its time I talked about this dark period in my life because I know that someone out there is going through the same thing. I want you to know that everybody has issues and sometimes you seeing other people have them will help you cope with your own. Years back I found myself in a place where I only saw one way out. I went through a spiralling journey of Depression and suicidal thoughts. Where everything seemed like nothing matters anymore. Locked myself at home, turned down almost every job that came in and shut myself off from work, friends, family, the world. I am introvert. And as an introverted person I was so used to keeping my thoughts to myself. Even when I wanted to share stuff, I truly didn’t know how to. I didn't know how to voice out all these feelings and thoughts inside me.So here I am sharing with you guys that even the people who appear to be okay or who seem to “have it all” might be going through their own struggles, fighting their own demons. Please, dont be afraid to reach out to your friends, family, and loved ones. Often times people will brush it off thinking it's nothing to be concerned about or it's a small matter. Don't be scared to voice out what you feel no matter how hard it is. Never lose HOPE. If you arent ready to open up to the people closest to you, you can also reach out and call hopeline

A post shared by Paulo Avelino (@pauavelino) on Nov 5, 2019 at 12:00am PST

“Even the people who appear to be okay or who seem to have it all might be going through their own struggles, fighting their own demons,” he wrote. “I want you to know that everybody has issues, and sometimes, seeing other people talk about it will help you cope with your own.”

It’s important to note that we shouldn’t put celebrities on a pedestal. But we can’t deny how influential they are, especially to young people like us. We adore them because we believe in them or we relate to them. Avelino is one of the many celebrities to open up about his mental health. Although he is not the first one to do so, there is someone out there who needed to hear his story.

Let his bravery be a sobering reminder: Depression doesn’t have a face. In fact, it can affect anybody, even the people who seem to have it all.

If you’re someone who is suffering from depression or any other mental health issues, our article on mental health resources around the Philippines might help. Click here to find out more.

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