Before starting university, I suffered a severe psychological setback. I began to isolate myself, avoiding interactions with relatives and friends. I would sit on the rooftop at night, staring at the sky, sleeping less than usual, not wanting to talk to anyone, feeling like no one understood me.

My father, who had noticed similar experiences in others in our family, insisted that I see a mental health expert. He feared that my condition would escalate. He told me then that when individuals are experiencing a psychological crisis, it’s often hard for anyone, even those closest to them, to bear their company. Fearing a similar fate for me, he insisted I seek medical advice.

I was not convinced by his words. I saw myself in good health. I justified all my behaviors as stemming from objective reasons. However, my father holds a special place of respect in my heart. If he asked me for something (which, in reality, he had never asked me for anything before), I found it hard to ignore his request. I went to the doctor purely out of love for him.

Indeed, my condition was diagnosed as a form of depression. I continued to see the doctor and take the medication until I got better.

Take care of those you love. If you notice them going through a psychological setback, advise them, and don't stop supporting them. The worst illnesses are those the sufferers themselves don't realize they have!