Webbed in the Dark

4 min read Poetry & Expression Inner Journey

Webbed in the Dark Slowly like a drop of water drips down a deep well, I feel the slip into my darkness. It makes me uncomfortable but still self-doubt seems easy. It throws me like a prey to an overthinking giant, But still surrounded with unpleasant thoughts seems trouble free. It bogs me down each day, taking me away from "Who I Was" But still not getting up to fight seems fine. The Dark web of Irritation, Frustration, Self-blame, Procrastination, Pessimism, Suspicion, Helplessness hurt to hold me tight. The Willpower to feel my strengths, break free and let go is not felt. The Web is shrewd & suffocating but shiny at the surface to ditch the world, It poisons my urge & mind to turn inwards trusting my light. Somewhere deep down my heart & soul, I still await a light of hope, optimism & faith to reach deep down, destroying the web and taking me back to "Who I Was".

Poetic Fragments by

Deepika Dahima

Scientist C, AIIMS New Delhi

Understanding the Web

This powerful poem captures the insidious nature of mental health struggles — how they can feel comfortable in their familiarity even as they cause pain. The metaphor of being "webbed in the dark" speaks to many who find themselves caught in cycles of negative thinking and self-doubt.

The poem beautifully illustrates several key aspects of depression and anxiety:

The gradual descent: Like water slowly dripping, mental health challenges often creep in gradually
The comfort in discomfort: Sometimes staying in familiar darkness feels easier than fighting for light
The web of symptoms: Irritation, frustration, self-blame, procrastination — all interconnected
The persistence of hope: Even in the darkest moments, a part of us still awaits the light

The ending reminds us that beneath all the darkness, hope still lives. The desire to return to "Who I Was" speaks to the resilience that exists within each of us, waiting for the right moment, the right support, the right light to help us break free.

Break Free from the Web

If you recognize yourself in these words, know that the light you're waiting for can begin with reaching out. You don't have to stay webbed in the dark alone.

Find Your Light