October is National Depression Month, the time we recognize that there are over 16 million people dealing with this affliction at any given time. The struggle is real. Unlike a few days of being down in the dumps and binge-watching daytime TV in sweatpants, depression profoundly impacts people’s lives. A glimpse into an average day:
- While other people are laughing and having fun, anything positive does not sink in. The very experience that would be an antidote for hardships is nothing more than gray and flat.
- When nothing positive gets through, it becomes difficult to look forward to anything. Dread surfaces because past experience suggests that any upcoming event will be another disappointment, another chance to feel separate from others. Is there any surprise that motivation disappears?
- Energy is sluggish, like walking around with fifteen-pound weights. Depression colors the ability to recognize that what the body needs is to move. Instead, the couch or bed seem like the antidote. Sadly, it usually only makes depression stronger.
- The inner critic is unhinged, turning every interaction into a chance for self-character assassination. No vulnerability is off limits, and it especially has a field day when interacting with other people. The mental work to prevent the critic from taking over impacts concentration and memory. (Here is an interesting take by some YouTubers on the inner critic, using characters from a Bug’s Life.)
One anonymous person added, “Depression is feeling like you’ve lost something but having no clue when or where you last had it. Then, one day you realize what you lost was yourself.”
My hope is that these suffering souls know that this struggle has a name, there are criteria that put words to the experience, and there are ways to find relief. It’s one step at a time. Below is a list of resources to help you or someone you know dealing with depression or you may call me to discuss options. No one needs to face this alone.
Breathe darling. This is just a chapter. It’s not your whole story.”
– S.C. Lourie
Resources
- DBSA – In-person and online support group as well as support for friends and family
- Medical New Today– an article that provides information that addresses numerous aspects of depression
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America – Provides group work, therapist matching, and specified resources
- College Planning Guide – resource for college students with mental health concerns
- Families for Depression Awareness – Offers resources for loved ones including webinars, workshops, and videos on how to be supportive in the healing process
- AgeWise Colorado – Provides research and descriptions of many resources specific for older adults
- SAMSA– a national hotline for those struggling with substance abuse and mental health struggles
- Mental Health Colorado – Advocates for mental health awareness and offers resources, support, and education for individuals and families facing depression.
- Second Wind Fund – Focuses on youth suicide prevention and provides funding for therapy for children and teens at risk of depression or suicide.
Suicide
- 988 Hotline (Formerly National Suicide Hotline) 988- phone or text
- Colorado Crisis Services (844) 493-8255 – Call or text (“TALK” to 38255) to speak with a representative 24/7
- SAVE: Suicide Prevention, Information, and Awareness – In collaboration with Exempla Lutheran
- The Trevor Project – (866) 488-7386 Chat groups, support groups, and suicide hotline
- Denver Springs – crisis center for inpatient needs