20: Stop Complaining, It Could Be Worse: Unpacking Comparative Suffering

“Work is really stressful at the moment, but I know I shouldn’t complain. At least I have a job and a roof over my head; others aren’t so lucky.” Why do we feel the need to attach these disclaimers to our struggles? 

 

In our season finale, Ruth has a clip from an Adele interview she wants Áine’s take on. In response, the two dive into the concept of ‘Comparative Suffering’, and share some of their own experiences of depressive episodes.

Is a bit of tough love what some people need when feeling depressed? Or is this approach a fundamental misunderstanding of what it’s like to deal with mental health difficulties.

 

Here’s where you can find the video Áine talks about in relation to ‘Mental Health Privilege’: https://theprivilegeproject.org/privileges/mental-health/

 

And don’t forget we have a super secret way for you to get in touch with us anonymously, just click here.

 

Or you can email hello@whatarewelike.ie 

 

@aine.maher28 

@ruthjephson

 

Theme music: Andrei Boyd 

andrei.boyd@icloud.com 

 

Logo: Cillian Fenlon 

cillianfenlon@gmail.com