Clinical depression is more than life's "ups" and "downs"
Life is full of joy and pain, happiness and sorrow. It is normal to feel sad when a loved one dies, or when you're sick, going through a divorce or having financial problems. But if the sadness does not go away, keeps returning, lasts longer than a few weeks, or causes you to struggle with daily life -- you may be suffering from clinical depression.
You cannot "snap out of" clinical depression, nor can you will it or wish it away. Depression is not a personal weakness, gracelessness or faithlessness – it is a common, yet serious, medical illness.
Clinical depression is a "whole-body" illness, affecting mood, thoughts, body and behavior. Depression changes the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself and the way you think about things. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months or years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people who have depression.
|
"Depression doesn't lift at the end of the day or disappear when others try to cheer us up. When feelings of helplessness and depression worsen and grow into a full-blown clinical depression, it is truly an illness, not a character flaw or an insignificant bout with the blues." -- Meri Nana-Ama Danquah |
Clinical depression can affect anyone, at any time of life
Anyone can experience depression, regardless of age, gender, race, creed or income. Every year more than 19 million Americans suffer from some type of depressive illness. Although depression is common, it is a serious illness and can even lead to suicide.
One of the most common myths about depression is that it is "normal" for certain people to feel depressed – older people, young adults, new mothers, menopausal women, or those with a chronic illness. The truth is that depression is not (and should not be accepted as) a normal part of life for any African American, regardless of age or life situation.
Myths about depression can cause unnecessary pain
The myths and stigma that surround depression create needless pain and confusion, and can keep people with depression from getting proper treatment. The following statements reflect some common misbeliefs about African Americans and depression.
|
"What do you have to be depressed about? If our people could make it through slavery, we can make it through anything." "When a black woman suffers from a mental disorder, the overwhelming opinion is that she is weak. And weakness in black women is intolerable." "Black women are supposed to be strong — caretakers, nurturers, healers of other people." "You should take your troubles to Jesus, not some stranger/psychiatrist." -- Meri Nana-Ama Danquah |
The truth is that getting help, a critical step in conquering depression, can actually be a sign of strength. People with depression cannot just "pull themselves together" and get better. Spiritual support can be an important part of healing -- but for people with depression, the care of a qualified medical or mental health professional is essential. As with many illnesses, if treatment is needed, the earlier it begins, the more effective it can be.
Learning to recognize clinical depression
Does this sound like you, or a friend or family member?
"I felt like I was fading away, being erased. I just wanted to sleep and disappear. Living felt like a waste of time and effort."
"It's been more than a year since her husband died and she still can't seem to get back on her feet."
"Daily tasks -- bathing, ironing clothes, dressing, braiding hair, making breakfast, preparing lunch, school drop-offs and pick-ups -- require every bit of get-up-and-go I have."
"She has always liked good food, but now she eats all the time."
"I'm so tired of everything. I feel like I just want the world to stop spinning for a while so I can take a break."
"My mother shouldered so many heavier burdens and here I am thinking my life is too much to bear. I feel so guilty, and weak – unworthy of my heritage."
"I don't know what's wrong with me. I seem to be crying over the dumbest things lately."
Depression can be diagnosed and successfully treated
The good news is that, like other illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes, depression can be diagnosed and treated with the help of a qualified healthcare professional. In fact, more than 80% of people with depression can be treated successfully with medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both. With treatment, generally on an outpatient basis, most people improve and return to daily activities, usually in a matter of weeks.
Many people find strength and support through their religious and spiritual communities. Pastoral counselors, with degrees in psychology and theology, offer an integrated religious and spiritual approach to treatment.
While counseling and support are considered an important part of any ministry, only a physician or mental health professional can diagnose depression. The first step toward getting help should be talking with your doctor. As with other illnesses, the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it can be.
Life can be enjoyable again! With recognition and treatment, clinical depression can be overcome! Talk with your doctor or a qualified mental health professional if you think you may have symptoms of clinical depression. To determine whether you are experiencing symptoms, take our confidential depression-screening test.
Copyright © 2007 Mental Health America
| Please read DISCLAIMER for important information. |