“I’m Not Sure If This Is Depression” — Why That’s a Valid Place to Start

If you've ever found it hard to explain what depression feels like—or struggled to understand what a loved one is going through—I Had a Black Dog by the World Health Organization and author Matthew Johnstone might help.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiCrniLQGYc

This powerful animated video has resonated with people around the world for one simple reason: it describes depression in a way that feels real. No clinical jargon. No overwhelming theories. Just an honest, accessible reflection of what it’s like to live with depression—through the metaphor of a black dog.

The Black Dog: A Striking, Simple Metaphor for Depression

In the video, the black dog of depression is ever-present. It shows up without warning. It dulls joy, drains motivation, and shadows everything—from work to relationships to sleep.

The black dog whispers lies:

• "You’re not good enough."

• "You’re a burden."

• "No one really cares."

  
  

And like many people who struggle with depression, the character in the video tries to ignore or suppress the dog—only to find it grows larger and more disruptive over time.

This is often how depression operates: it isolates. It convinces you to stay silent. It makes you feel like you have to hide your pain.

What the Video Gets Right About Mental Health

The reason I Had a Black Dog resonates so widely is because it normalises the experience of depression without minimising it.

It recognises that:

• Depression doesn’t always come with a clear cause

• You don’t need to be in crisis to need support

• Talking to someone can be a turning point

  
  

And crucially—it reminds us that living with depression is not a personal failure. It’s something many people live with. And it's something you can learn to manage with the right support.

Depression Doesn't Always "Look" a Certain Way

In my work as a therapist offering online counselling across the UK, I often hear clients say:

“I don’t know why I feel this way. I have a good job, a family, a partner—I should be fine.”

But depression doesn’t care how “good” your life looks on paper. You can feel low, hopeless, or numb even when things seem okay. And you absolutely still deserve support.

You don't have to wait until you're at breaking point to speak up. The earlier you recognise the signs—the black dog’s arrival—the sooner you can start taking steps to feel more in control.

You Don’t Have to Face Depression Alone

One of the most powerful takeaways from I Had a Black Dog is this:

You don’t have to fight the black dog by yourself.

Whether it's opening up to a friend, speaking to your GP, or starting therapy, taking that first small step can make all the difference.

As a BACP-accredited therapist, I offer confidential online therapy for depression and low mood, in a calm, non-judgmental space. You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t have to explain everything perfectly. Just showing up is enough to begin.

If the Video Resonates With You…

You’re not alone. Depression is more common than most people realise—and it doesn’t make you weak, broken, or “too much.”

If you're living with your own black dog and wondering how to take the first step, therapy can be a place to:

• Talk openly without pressure

• Explore what's going on beneath the surface

• Find ways to cope and reconnect with yourself

  
  

Ready to Talk?

I’m a BACP-accredited therapist offering online counselling across the world. If you're living with depression and feel ready to take that next step, I'm here to support you—gently, confidentially, and at your pace.

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