A recent internet article invited the reader to imagine attending a party with these prominent guests: Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Robert Schumann, Ludwig von Beethoven, Edgar Allen Poe, Mark Twain, Vincent van Gogh, and Georgia O’Keefe. Maybe Schumann and Beethoven are at the dinner table intently discussing the crescendos in their most recent scores, while Twain sits on a couch telling Poe about the plot of his latest novel. O’Keefe and Van Gogh may be talking about their art, while Roosevelt and Lincoln discuss political endeavors. (FDA Consumer Magazine, July-August 1998).
Perhaps. But these historical figures had a much more personal common experience: each of them battled the debilitating illness of depression.
One might think that being in such profound company would remove the stigma that some 18 million Americans (9.5% of our population) who suffer from this disease often experience. Perhaps it was even from the depths of their depression that these historical figures made such significant contributions.
A depressive disorder is not the occasional sadness nor “blue funk” that everyone experiences due to life’s ups and downs. A depressive disorder affects moods, thoughts, behaviors and physical well-being impairing one’s ability to function in everyday situations.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, 80-90% of all depression can be effectively treated. The statistics are even higher for those with a spiritual foundation and who incorporate their faith tradition into treatment. Unfortunately, only about one third of those who suffer from depression seek help.
The symptoms of depression may include some, but not all, of the following:
§ Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
§ Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
§ Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness.
§ Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed
§ Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
§ Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
§ Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
§ Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain
§ Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
§ Restlessness, irritability
§ Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches,
digestive disorders and chronic pain
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Women experience depression about twice as often as men, and are more likely to seek treatment. While women’s depression typically shows as feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness, a man’s depression may manifest itself as irritability, anger and discouragement. For men, depression is more often masked by the use of alcohol or drugs and/or the socially rewarded practice of working excessively long hours.
The first step in obtaining appropriate treatment for depression is a physical examination by a physician. This evaluation should include a complete history and mental status exam. The outcome will determine the treatment choice, which may include antidepressant medications (including several “new” drugs approved by the FDA in the last 13 years), herbal or naturopathic remedies, a mild-to-moderate exercise program and/or psychotherapy. Psychotherapy may include Cognitive/Behavioral Therapies which help the depressed person change unbalanced styles of thinking and behaving that are associated with depression or Interpersonal Therapy which focuses on personal relationships that can both cause and exacerbate depression. Knowing that Cognitive and Interpersonal approaches will be even more effective in a faith-based context, the Pastoral Counselor may incorporate the use of scripture and the individual’s faith tradition into treatment.
How Family and Friends Can Help the Depressed Person
The depressed individual may feel exhausted, worthless, helpless and hopeless. It is important to see these features as part of the depression and not the person. Remember that depression is an illness and not a character flaw, a sign of personal weakness nor a condition that can be willed or wished away.
1) Assist the depressed individual in seeking appropriate diagnosis and treatment. You may be aware of their symptoms before they are. This may include making and accompanying them on medical appointments. As a depressed person often discontinues treatment as soon as symptoms abate; ongoing compliance with all recommended treatment should be encouraged.
2) Offer emotional support—prayer, positivity, hope, understanding, patience, encouragement, affection and firm-but-gentle guidance.
3) Take any talk of suicide seriously and report it to care providers.
4) Never accuse the depressed person of feigning illness, laziness or insincerity. Depression is not something the individual can “snap out of.”
5) Include and gently encourage the depressed person to participate in once-enjoyed activities but do not insist to the degree that he/she will feel overwhelmed which may lead to feelings of failure and worthlessness.
Left untreated, depression can result in years of needless suffering for both the depressed person and his/her family. Most can be treated successfully. If you or someone you love suffers from these symptoms, please encourage them to contact a care provider.
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