What it’s like to live with depression, as told through 10 comic panels.

Living with depression looks very different for different people.

But we should be talking about how depression feels and looks more often because, as national mental health groups report, major depressive disorder affects around 16 million adults in the U.S. per year.

For many people, depression changes daily interactions.

Handling everyday problems, interacting with friends and loved ones, and even working can be especially difficult for those who are struggling.

Most people don’t talk about depression or ask for help either.

Experts estimated that 1 in 4 people have treatable mental or emotional challenges, but thanks to factors such as money, time, and stigma, up to 75 % of Americans and Europeans don’t seek the help that they need.

Minorities are particularly hesitant to find treatment for depression, with only 7.6% of African-Americans reported reaching out in 2011 compared to 13.6% of the general population.

That’s why artists from Empathize This illustrated some real talk about the complexities of living with depression.

Through art, they’re hoping to dismantle the stigma that surrounds it.