#AlwaysKeepFighting #LetsTalk

Depression sucks. It leaves you feeling alone and broken. It isolates you and makes things so dark it's hard to hold onto hope. Sometimes it only stays a little bit. Other times it just never seems to go away - no matter what you do to try and regain your sense of self and happiness. It's taken me SEVEN months to pull myself out. Don't let appearances fool you - depression is often something that strokes behind the scenes.

Jared Padalecki, the actor who plays Sam Winchester on Supernatural and Dean on Gilmore Girls, started a campaign called "Always Keep Fighting" - to bring awareness to depression, self injury, and suicide - to help people know they're NOT alone. The response has been EPIC as people step forward and share their story. I personally have had issues with all three of these things ... my butterfly tattoo represents my own commitment not to self injure. The struggle IS real for so many of us. It gives me hope that people are not afraid to speak up now. It's no longer okay to hide it in the closet or something to be ashamed over.

Jared recently had to cancel appearances. It's easy to become overwhelmed and overstimulate yourself to the point where things spiral. He's exhausted himself and not only am I proud that he respects himself enough to know his limits but that the #SPNFamily loves him enough to support him.

He may never see this and that's okay. I don't ever do things for that reason. I just wanted to say this ... Jared, we stand by you. We love you. And please, #AlwaysKeepFighting. You make a difference. We see YOU beyond the characters you portray. Do whatever you need to feel better.

And for those who also deal with depression - I love you. My heart is with you. You're in my prayers.

We are not alone. We have value. Hold on to those around you. It will pass, I promise.

Hugs and kisses to you all! xoxoxo