Depression isn't a sign of weakness. It's the most silent battle of all.
It's not just the blues or a mood you can shake off.
It's a relentless, quiet storm that only you can feel.
It's hiding behind smiles, laughter, and energy.
You'd never know someone's fighting it, just like I have.
It doesn't give a damn about your badges, your titles, or your accomplishments.
It's an equal opportunist - no one's immune.
It's a daily fucking struggle, a quiet conflict that's fought away from prying eyes.
This war's been my constant companion since my teenage years, long before the military, the deployments, and the scars.
It's the enemy that doesn't show up on any radar, the one always lurking in the shadows.
Depression wears many masks.
For me, it's been about shutting down, losing the will, the drive. I used to lose myself in video games, alcohol, and seeking validation from women.
But those things turned into a crutch, a goddamn addiction that made me lose control over my life, my relationships, and my growth.
Fast forward to today, and I've kicked those addictions to the curb.
I've stared my demon in the eyes.
The gym became my refuge, my mental battlefield - that's why starting the Iron Forge was so important to me.
A place to feel good about myself, to see progress, to beat the shit out of the storm brewing inside.
But don't get me wrong - it's not all hunky-dory.
There are still those fucking dark days.
But now, I fight differently.
Depression isn't my death sentence anymore. It's my personal beast, my own damn mountain to climb. We all have our battles, our hurdles, our fucking demons to slay.
Now, I face my depression with grit, tenacity, and integrity. I keep the promises I've made to myself. I refuse to be a puppet to my mind. I choose to rise, to march on.
And if you're stuck in the same shit, remember this. It's okay to have bad days. It's okay to break down sometimes.
But don't let it script your tomorrow.
Always remember, you're not alone in this goddamn fight.
Reach out to your buddies, your family, the brotherhood.
Stay tough, keep moving.
You're bigger than your demons.
