The Real Shame is The Shame Itself
It is difficult to admit to your depression. This is what I learnedfrom watching Mike Wallace and Mary on public television. Their emotional pain was almost palpable when they spoke oftheir struggles with Mike's three bouts with depression. Evidently, the issue was so serious that he attemptedsuicide during his first bout of depression many years ago.
It often takes a serious incident to realize the need foroutside assistance. Although it is possible to get relief quickly once treatmenthas been started, there may not be a quick and easy way. Everyone around has the opportunity to spread the new hopeof help. The risk of suicide can now bereduced! Friends and family can take adeep breath of relief.
Mary and Mike are both examples of the shame that clientsand their families feel when they receive such a diagnosis. Mike acknowledged that ittook him a while to accept help. Mary encouraged him strongly. Only a few public figures have spoken out about their mentalhealth issues. Most others avoid the spotlight or hide behind the scenes ifthey are exposed. Only the brave areallowed to speak out. If we continue toshame anyone suffering from depression, I think our culture is stunted.
As if the problem itself wasn't bad enough
According to the press, antidepressant medication use hasincreased dramatically. This is an indication that depression is a seriousproblem. But, thereis still stigma! Many people are sufferingfrom depression due to the global economic downturn. It affects all of us. We need to get out of the old cultural habits and shame thatdoesn't listen to reason.
The Treatment is for the Taking
I knew from personal experience that Mike's depressionwas a problem for the Wallaces. Clients with depression are often ashamed to speak first. Clients may find it difficult to make eye contact, or havetears streaming down their cheeks when they talk about the reasons why theyneed to see a therapist. While some may berelieved to finally be here, others feel ashamed that depression is somethingthey are feeling. Clients who are openabout their need to get help for the pain they feel they cannot bear, and thosewho believe they should receive it, are always my favorite.
Clients who are able to overcome their depression andadmit they cannot fight it alone will often find relief. These are simple wordsthat can start the healing process. Youcan let go of shame and dread by asking for help.
The Mystic of Just Talking
Did you know that fear can sometimes make it difficult toface the fear? It's thesame with depression. Trust me, noprofessional mental healthcare provider will tell you your feelings areunfounded or foolish, nor should you feel ashamed.
Combining therapy and medication can often lead to thebest results. Combiningone with the other is like eating a lemon without any sweetener. Both are meant to be together. However, one mode of successmay not work for all. Discuss this withyour mental health professional.
It is not clear why we are wired to respond positively tosharing our pain and communicating our circumstances. It works. Don't doubt thegift. Stay tuned for future posts.
Here's what you need to know: Depression is notweakness.
2. If you feeldepressed, you don't have to be "less than" the rest.
3. You can reachus by phone.
If you accept the mission, it will require:
1. You can let goof your "shoulds" to find truth.
2. Believe thatyou don't have to feel this way!
3. Believe thatyou have the right to seek relief.
Since many years, I have been a psychotherapist. I am a life coach and seemyself as a life coach. This helps clients discover their inner strengths, usethose resources to solve their life problems.
My career began when I realized that "working inyour passion means you won't work a single day." Helping others to grow andcope with the bumps in life is a passion. Formost people, the best way to face challenges is still to do so.
New paths have been forged after I survived a life-threateningillness this year. I want toshare my survival tips and coping strategies with more people than just thosewho are in my office. The internet is thebest way to reach new clients and expand your client base.
It is very rewarding to help others. This blog is aboutadapting to change and improving coping skills. It also focuses on personalgrowth. "Make Better Lemonade"has been a true blessing. I am grateful to ski down another mountain to sharemy insights and learn from my readers. Myclients know that I give far more than they receive.
