The phrase "happiness is a choice" is a lie, especially when it comes to depression, anxiety, and trauma. Wouldn't I have chosen to be happy ages ago?

Why the Phrase “Happiness is a Choice” is a Lie

Although I’ve lived with mental illness my whole life, I am not a medical professional. If you need help finding a mental health care provider, call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit BetterHelp to talk to a certified therapist online at an affordable price. This post contains affiliate links. You can read my full disclaimer.

The phrase “happiness is a choice” is one of my most hated phrases.

As someone who’s been struggling with severe depression on and off for over 10 years, I know that phrase is a lie. If happiness was a choice, wouldn’t I have chosen to be happy ages ago?

That’s right. Happiness is not a choice. Here’s why.