According to the World Health Organization, over 300 million people around the world suffer from depression. The mechanisms for coping with it are different, and for Greg Sheard, photography is the way to deal with it. In this video, he talks about how photography is helping him combat depression on a daily basis. And if you (or someone you know) are depressed, this is definitely something you should watch.
When he was 11 years old, Greg realized for the first time that the world was different from how he saw it at the time. He talks about his struggle with all kinds of difficult situations, all of which have left their mark on his feelings and mental health. In 2012, he met a woman who became his wife. Greg admits he found it difficult to explain to her about his depression, but she has been nothing but supportive. This is where his interest in photography began to grow.
Greg and his wife would often go and explore new places together and he’d usually bring a small camera with him. He realized that he’d like to get into photography, so he started exploring and learning more about it. The newly found passion took Greg to many new locations, both in the country and abroad. But one thing that he always feels when taking photos is that all of his problems seem to go away. “I feel at one with my camera and the location I am in and I have this sense of focus and perspective,” Greg says.
Another thing that may influence your feelings is setting goals. Greg sets goals and targets to himself that make his photography better and make him grow. Once you hit these goals, it gives you a sense of accomplishment, which can also make you feel better.
Of course, photography isn’t the magical cure that will make your problems go away. But it can make you feel better and help you cope with depression on a daily basis. Make sure to watch the video to hear Greg’s story, and you can also read it on his blog. If you’re struggling with depression, try picking up the camera and creating something with it.
I can strongly relate with Greg’s story because it was photography that helped me go through one of the most difficult periods of my life. I plan to write more about it when I’m ready, but in short: it was the only thing that kept me focused and relatively calm while my head was a total mess. If you’ve had similar experiences, please feel free to share them and inspire those who are currently trying to find the ways to cope with their problems.
[How photography is helping me battle depression via FStoppers]
FIND THIS INTERESTING? SHARE IT WITH YOUR FRIENDS!