Olaf Hart wrote:Lin, there are two sorts of depression.
Reactive depression, usually related to a significant loss, which responds to time and support.
Biochemical depression, which we understand is a chemical problem related to problems with neurotransmitters in the midbrain, such as serotonin.
Many people with this use high levels of self control, and /or exercise, to help manage the condition.
When they came for help, it was usually because the self control was no longer enough, and they felt themselves slipping into a black hole. They needed chemical, as well as CBT help.
In a clinical sense, most presentations are a mixed picture, a manageable biochemical depression aggravated by a series of losses or life changes.
Whilst I personally understand the HTFU approach to depression in managing a mild chemical condition, it isn't the whole story.
Olaf, I appreciate your reply, especially as you have provided thoughtful and informed input. Thanks. Having worked with hundreds of people who suffer from depression over the past 30 years and having it affect family, co-workers and friends, I have done an immense amount of reading about it, in order to understand and empathize.
My post was a bit succinct, almost abrupt, and I regret that. I am a strong believer in CBT - which is congintive behavioral therapy for those unfamiliar; and chemical treatment if some improvement needs to happen faster. There really needs to be more open dialogue and acceptance to talk about it. There still exists a certain amount of stigma, especially among the Asian and over 60 age group populations.
I do believe that the length and degree of reactional depression is strongly related to one's attidue before a loss or stressor occurs. My point was more about one's attitude and self talk.
What I find especially disheartening and difficult is substance abuse that worsens the depression. The denial aspect can be very frustrating when trying to help someone who is struggling. Addressing it can break ties and friendships, in a heartbeat. The sufferer often seeks the company of enablers, which compounds the problem.
Orestes - +1 I just read your reply. I strongly agree that exercise and CBT help immensely. I too suffered from a bout of depression a long time ago (basically reactional) when trying to conceive, without success, for a number of years. Likely the fertility drugs contributed to some degree. Eventually, I became very motivated to not feel sorry for myself any longer and found some excellent resources. This is not something I am unfamiliar with.