Depression……

 

Hurts us and those we love, much like any other disease. It hijacks the brain, similar to addiction, infusing itself into all aspects of our lives. In fact, addiction is very often the cause or byproduct of many mood disorders.  

Depression………..

• is often cloaked in many layers

• can be elusive to self & others, yet ever present

• is exhausting

• effects how we see ourselves, others & the world

• disrupts our sleep, eating, energy & thinking

• can temporarily render us powerless & purposeless (but don’t worry, it’s still there!)

• can cause irritability, rage & isolation

• often brings thoughts of dying

• can cause us to struggle in feeling grounded or tethered to something bigger than ourselves

• protects us from risking rejection or exposure

• strengthens the voice of our inner critic

• can make us feel hopeless, guilt & shame

• impedes us from being authentic

• can cause physical pain & illness

• can slow or speed our sense of time

• increases mistrust in ourselves & others

• can increase alcohol or drug use

• feels as though we are lost & undeserving

• can bring about frequent tearfulness

• can stem from both our biology & circumstances

• can cause a loss of pleasure in our lives

 

Depression is not:

• your fault

• “all” in your head

• about your intelligence, creativity, character or purpose

• about weakness

• temporary sadness

 

• According to NAMI.org, (National Alliance Mental Health), 16 million U.S adults had at least one major depressive episode in the past year.  

• 11 in 100,000 die yearly from suicide and mental illness is the number one predictive factor & mood disorders receive only one-fourth the funding available for cancer research.  

• The NNDC.org (National Network Of Depression Centers) estimates up to 50% people suffering from depression are not currently receiving treatment and NAMI reports 16 million adults in the U.S. suffered from at least one major depressive episode in the past year.

• Depression is both highly treatable and manageable. I have witnessed the power depression holds, fade away with connection, support, resources, laughter and sometimes medication. 80% of U.S. adults treated for depression showed improvement in their symptoms in four to six weeks of beginning treatment with medication, psychotherapy, support groups or a combination of these approaches (NNDC.org).