Tag: Major Depressive Disorder

Magic mushrooms for postpartum depression treatment? Florida researchers running trials

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Researchers at the University of South Florida are conducting clinical trials to explore the potential of psilocybin, a compound found in magic mushrooms, as a treatment for postpartum depression and other mental health disorders.Tracey Tee, founder and CEO of Moms on Mushrooms, said, “We’ve greatly misjudged and mis-prioritized the mental health of mothers in general and we’ve gotten a lot of it wrong.”Her group educates women about magic mushrooms and psilocybin, focusing on how they can help mothers dealing with trauma or depression. Tee emphasized the potential of microdosing and magic mushrooms as an emerging solution, although she acknowledged it may not be suitable for everyone. “Studying it for postpartum in particular is like a no-brainer for me,” she said.Health researchers at the University of South Florida are investigating whether psilocybin can help treat major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, and other conditions.Dr. Ryan Wagoner, who was involved with the research, said, “What we are eventually trying to move towards are these medications that can be Food and Drug Administration-approved just like any medication you might take.” Wagoner said if psilocybin’s medical properties are proven to outweigh its risks, it could be reclassified and approved as a medication. “If you can show that the substance does have a medical property that’s valuable to it and outweighs any sorts of risks, suddenly we can move what schedule it’s on and get it approved to be a medication just like anything else,” Wagoner said.Researchers say psilocybin works by targeting serotonin receptors in the brain, enhancing sensory input and potentially disrupting neural networks involved in depression. They are exploring the use of smaller doses to activate serotonin receptors without causing unwanted side effects. “What if we use a smaller dose. What if we use a dose that activates the serotonin receptor but doesn’t cause as much of those side effects that we’re not looking for,” Wagoner said.Tee believes the stigma around magic mushrooms should be replaced with a view of them as a medical treatment. “The idea is that you’re not high and that it’s mimicking and still working in the brain and body in the same way that a large dose journey does, that’s like transformative effects, but we are doing it in smaller amounts over time incrementally so that you are able to go about your day,” she said. She added that psilocybin should be paired with other treatments. “It really needs to be paired with something because it’s not a passive magic pill in the same way an antidepressant is; you really want to work with the medicine,” Tee said.The National Institutes of Health reports that approximately 30% of patients with major depressive disorder have treatment-resistant depression. A Johns Hopkins study found that two doses of psilocybin produced rapid and large reductions in depressive symptoms. “You actually have to put into practice, and so that is why we do clinical trials to first detect if there are side effects we weren’t expecting,” Wagoner said. They are investigating whether psilocybin offers benefits beyond existing medications.”Is this something real that’s going on in the brain that’s different or better than some of the medications we already have on the market,” Wagoner said.Tee expressed optimism about the role of psychedelics in mental health treatment, saying, “I think there’s a really beautiful place for psychedelics to slide in and support a lot of people without a lot of damage we’re seeing being caused by other modalities.”Magic mushrooms remain illegal in Florida, classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance at both the state and federal levels. Possession of psilocybin mushrooms is a felony, with significant fines, probation, and potential prison time. Florida has also banned mushroom spores, despite them not containing psilocybin. Wagoner said clinical trials will continue, with more data and research being collected to potentially achieve FDA approval in the future.

Researchers at the University of South Florida are conducting clinical trials to explore the potential of psilocybin, a compound found in magic mushrooms, as a treatment for postpartum depression and other mental health disorders.

Tracey Tee, founder and CEO of Moms on Mushrooms, said, “We’ve greatly misjudged and mis-prioritized the mental health of mothers in general and we’ve gotten a lot of it wrong.”

Her group educates women about magic mushrooms and psilocybin, focusing on how they can help mothers dealing with trauma or depression. Tee emphasized the potential of microdosing and magic mushrooms as an emerging solution, although she acknowledged it may not be suitable for everyone.

“Studying it for postpartum in particular is like a no-brainer for me,” she said.

Health researchers at the University of South Florida are investigating whether psilocybin can help treat major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, and other conditions.

Dr. Ryan Wagoner, who was involved with the research, said, “What we are eventually trying to move towards are these medications that can be Food and Drug Administration-approved just like any medication you might take.”

Wagoner said if psilocybin’s medical properties are proven to outweigh its risks, it could be reclassified and approved as a medication.

“If you can show that the substance does have a medical property that’s valuable to it and outweighs any sorts of risks, suddenly we can move what schedule it’s on and get it approved to be a medication just like anything else,” Wagoner said.

Researchers say psilocybin works by targeting serotonin receptors in the brain, enhancing sensory input and potentially disrupting neural networks involved in depression.

They are exploring the use of smaller doses to activate serotonin receptors without causing unwanted side effects.

“What if we use a smaller dose. What if we use a dose that activates the serotonin receptor but doesn’t cause as much of those side effects that we’re not looking for,” Wagoner said.

Tee believes the stigma around magic mushrooms should be replaced with a view of them as a medical treatment.

“The idea is that you’re not high and that it’s mimicking and still working in the brain and body in the same way that a large dose journey does, that’s like transformative effects, but we are doing it in smaller amounts over time incrementally so that you are able to go about your day,” she said.

She added that psilocybin should be paired with other treatments.

“It really needs to be paired with something because it’s not a passive magic pill in the same way an antidepressant is; you really want to work with the medicine,” Tee said.

The National Institutes of Health reports that approximately 30% of patients with major depressive disorder have treatment-resistant depression.

A Johns Hopkins study found that two doses of psilocybin produced rapid and large reductions in depressive symptoms.

“You actually have to put into practice, and so that is why we do clinical trials to first detect if there are side effects we weren’t expecting,” Wagoner said.

They are investigating whether psilocybin offers benefits beyond existing medications.

“Is this something real that’s going on in the brain that’s different or better than some of the medications we already have on the market,” Wagoner said.

Tee expressed optimism about the role of psychedelics in mental health treatment, saying, “I think there’s a really beautiful place for psychedelics to slide in and support a lot of people without a lot of damage we’re seeing being caused by other modalities.”

Magic mushrooms remain illegal in Florida, classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance at both the state and federal levels.

Possession of psilocybin mushrooms is a felony, with significant fines, probation, and potential prison time.

Florida has also banned mushroom spores, despite them not containing psilocybin.

Wagoner said clinical trials will continue, with more data and research being collected to potentially achieve FDA approval in the future.

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November 2, 2025
Parenting 101: Namaste, baby! Studies show mental health benefits of yoga for moms-to-be

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Michelle Cadieux, 36, sets up her yoga blocks, strap and bolster, and settles onto her cushioned yoga mat at Morpho Bleu, a yoga studio located in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce.

As the sunlight streams through the large window, a glow is cast over the space. Soft instrumental music plays at a distance and the scent of eucalyptus and lavender fills the air, evoking a sense of relaxation.

With a hand placed on her growing belly, Cadieux watches as more expecting mothers gather on their mats.

“Welcome, everyone,” says prenatal yoga instructor Lauren Enright. “So, how are we feeling? Are there any new developments from last week?”

The women take turns sharing their thoughts and experiences for 15-minutes before diving into adaptations of the cat and cow, the warrior, and various other yoga poses for the remaining hour.

“What I do in my classes is beyond just yoga,” Enright says. “It also serves as a community where we have discussion circles.”

Enright explains that her students appreciate this format – especially those who struggle with pregnancy-related anxiety or depression, like Cadieux.

“Pregnancy can be stressful, especially if you’re already an anxious person,” Cadieux says. “It’s a very fragile time. There’s a lot of uncertainty.”

And many expecting mothers can relate to this feeling.

According to a research review article, 20 to 40 per cent of pregnant women have reported feelings of anxiety or depression during pregnancy, typically related to worry about fetal wellbeing, maternal illnesses, social and financial support and mortality. This is concerning as perinatal anxiety and depression can contribute to fetal growth restriction, preterm delivery, or low birth weight.

Yoga is one way that Cadieux, and many other moms-to-be, choose to manage their symptoms of mental illness during the perinatal period – and research proves its effectiveness.

A systematic review from 2020 found that prenatal yoga may decrease stress levels, anxiety scores and depression scores, and may increase maternal immunity and emotional-wellbeing.

Another research study found that prenatal yoga classes are helpful in self-managing psychological distress and in developing a sense of community among other pregnant women.

The study’s corresponding author Dr. Patricia Kinser explains that prenatal yoga involves focused movements, breathing exercises, mindfulness practice and a sense of community.

“All of that together can be helpful mechanisms by which yoga practice could decrease symptoms not only of depression, but also of anxiety,” she says.

According to Dr. Kinser, anxiety and depression share a common theme: the sense of overwhelm. With anxiety, this may look like an overwhelming sense of concern or fear; whereas with depression, this may look like an overwhelming sense of sadness or generalized blue.

Some describe anxiety as being trapped in a dark room, unable to find the exit as a heavy rock sits on your chest; while depression is often described as feeling like you’re buried inside a deep, dark pit.

Women will usually experience an overlap between the two during the perinatal period, explains Dr. Kinser.

“Most people are not just depressed or just anxious, but there’s going to be some flow between those symptoms,” she says. “It’s the constellation of symptoms that can be debilitating.”

Dr. Kinser notes that prescription medication and psychotherapy are “powerful” and “important” tools for mental health, but she argues that prenatal yoga can act as a complementary treatment that is accessible, safe and effective for pregnant women.

Mindful Movements & Breathing for Two

As the moms-to-be mindfully move their bodies through different yoga poses – which help strengthen their muscles and keep their bodies mobile – they root themselves in their breath, according to Enright.

In yoga, breath is an anchor: it pulls the mind away from past regrets or future anxieties, and instead, it focuses on the mind in the present moment.

This has been proven to positively impact autonomic nervous system imbalances and stress-related disorders, according to a review article.

Yogic breathing refers to breathing into the diaphragm, the belly and then upper chest and breathing out in the reverse order – through the nose for both the inhale and exhale.

Enright – who has an undergrad degree in Biology and a graduate degree in Neuroscience – explains that breathing in this way can help regulate the nervous system and reduce anxiety.

“It helps put the gas on the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for down regulation and the rest and digest response,” she says.

She adds that focusing on breathing is especially important for pregnant women as they often experience shortness of breath.

As a baby grows inside the human body, it pushes up on the diaphragm – the main muscle responsible for respiration. This makes breathing more challenging as it results in less space for the lungs to expand, according to Enright.

“When we work on breathing, it’s really helpful to create more space in the body and it’s helpful to just bring a little bit more calm if there’s anxiety,” she says.

But beyond the yoga poses and breathing exercises, prenatal yoga fosters a sense of community for women who often feel isolated and alone.

Nama-Stay Together: A Sense of Community

The National Alliance on Mental Health states that a sense of community and connection provide three benefits that are critical for mental health: belonging, support and purpose.

According to Dr. Kinser, ‘connection’ is one of the most important components of participating in prenatal yoga classes – and Cadieux agrees.

“Pregnancy can be very isolating,” Cadieux says. “It’s really nice to connect with other people who are going through the exact same thing.”

Nathalie Ouellet, a new mom who practiced yoga during pregnancy, shares a similar experience.

“Although many of my friends had been pregnant or had babies, I didn’t have a friend who was exactly in the same spot as I was at that specific time,” she says. “It definitely made me feel welcome and made me feel that I was in a safe space.”

While many community-based activities may exist for expecting mothers, Dr. Kinser argues that prenatal yoga is the most effective as it helps pregnant women “in a very holistic realm.”

“It wasn’t just hitting the physical. It wasn’t just hitting the mental. It wasn’t just a breathing practice. It wasn’t just a relaxation,” she says. “It was the whole package. It’s that combination that can be so powerful for people.”

And the real benefit of yoga translates outside the class, according to Cadieux.

“You start to take that mindset shift and do those breathing techniques in your real life, every day,” she says.

As Cadieux rolls up her cushioned yoga mat and walks out the door alongside other moms-to-be at the end of the class, she leaves feeling less anxious and more supported.

“I always feel a sense of peace and calm,” she says.

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By Melissa Migueis

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August 9, 2024
Managing MDD and Your Job

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Managing MDD and Your Job

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August 3, 2023
The Future of Treatment

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By James Giordano, PhD, as told to Kara Mayer Robinson

Over the last 20 years, we’ve seen major strides in the treatment options for major depressive disorder.

We now understand that depression isn’t the same for everyone. The idea is to identify and diagnose what’s happening in a person’s neurochemistry so we can target our treatment in a way that works specifically for them.

Advances in Evidence-Based Treatment

Drug therapy has come a long way in recent years. We’ve improved the scope and focus of drug therapy by developing more selective or specialized antidepressants and combining them in new ways, with fewer side effects.

Drug therapy today may include newer medications like citalopram (Celexa) and escitalopram (Lexapro) as well as existing medications like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft).

It tends to work best when combined with psychotherapy, as supported by ample evidence. We now know the most effective and efficient types of therapy appear to be cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic therapy.

For people whose depression is resistant to psychotherapy and drug therapy, doctors may use electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Today’s version of ECT is much more specific, with lower side effects. It’s usually reserved for people who have severe, drug-resistant depression with bipolar characteristics.

Newer Treatments

Many new therapies have been introduced that have led to major improvement for patients.

Ketamine

A newer therapy involves the drug ketamine, which has been used in the past as an anesthetic and has robust benefits. It’s a relatively new approach. It’s been around for about 5 years.

Ketamine therapy resets your brain node and network connectivity to reduce, if not abolish, many depressive signs and symptoms. Many patients have longstanding relief, and in some cases, recover.

Ketamine therapy may involve as little as a single dose. Or it could be multiple doses over a short period of time. But it must be done under medical supervision. While it’s usually outpatient therapy, proper dosing and support of a patient using ketamine is critical.

It’s not the first drug of choice because it has fairly profound effects on the brain and has to be used with caution. Right now it’s used for severe treatment-resistant depression. But there’s an ongoing discussion that people with severe depression may do well using it earlier in treatment.

I think you’ll see an increased use of ketamine in the future, particularly for those who don’t get help from other treatments.

Psychedelics

There’s building evidence for the use of psychedelic drugs to treat major depression.

Drugs like psilocybin, commonly known as mushrooms, and LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) can change the properties in your brain chemistry that are involved in depression.

Microdoses or millidoses of these drugs can be very effective, either by themselves or when used with antidepressants. They can improve symptoms, behavior, and function. They tend to be fast-acting, but for some people the effects don’t last long.

Psychedelics are still viewed with relative stigma and they’re a controlled substance. It’s necessary to find the right microdose and schedule for the best effect. Not all clinicians are skilled, comfortable, or willing to provide psychedelic drugs.

Another drawback is that people may try to self-medicate, which is very difficult. This is a very specific method that requires clinical skill.

More research is needed. We need medicine-based evidence for the use and value of psychedelics in treating certain types of depression.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS, which involves passing a very weak magnetic current through your skull, is interesting. It works like a dimmer switch to change the electrical activity of your brain and reduce signs and symptoms of depression.

There’s very promising research that repetitive TMS can be very effective in treating certain forms of treatment-resistant depression. It’s very easy to do, can be tailored to each patient’s needs, and often has a rapid and durable response. It can be used by itself or combined with psychotherapy or drug treatment.

But while the effects of TMS are robust, they may taper over time. It may require multiple sessions, and you have to find a clinician who’s trained and skilled to administer TMS.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

Deep brain stimulation is a new, emerging treatment that involves implanting electrodes to target specific areas of the brain. It can be adjusted for each individual patient to most effectively control their symptoms and signs of depression.

DBS was first tried in 2005. Since then, the science has advanced considerably with the help of the BRAIN Initiative, an NIH program aimed at revolutionizing our understanding of the human brain. Now we have a better understanding of how to target the brain more precisely, which may lead to better results. More research will help even more.

DBS appears to reset the network activities of the brain. Over time, the brain activity involved in depression may be turned off, which means patients stay in remission. There’s evidence to suggest DBS has long-lasting effects.

An interesting effect we’ve seen with some patients is how significantly it changes their outlook. Some people appear more outgoing and ebullient, with a newfound vigor and even changing interests. It’s hard to tell if these changes are a side effect of DBS or if it’s the result of feeling the burden of depression lifted. It’s very interesting.

A downside of DBS is that it’s neurosurgery, so there’s the risk of infection and hemorrhage. It’s rare, but there’s also a risk of misplacement, or electrode drift.

Other cons include side effects and cost. Insurance companies don’t uniformly cover DBS. As the technology gets better, there will be a need for maintenance and upkeep that may be costly.

I believe DBS is the future. When it works, it really works.

On the Horizon

The emerging technology is moving toward minimal or noninvasive DBS.

There’s cutting-edge technology involving nonsurgical implantation of electrodes. A program at DARPA, an agency that supports the BRAIN Initiative, is looking at small transmitters and stimulators that can be delivered into the bloodstream, inhaled, or even swallowed, then guided to the brain.

Other groups are looking at minimally invasive approaches that can be done in a doctor’s office. All it requires is a very small hole in your scalp, where doctors insert fluid electrodes, then guide them to the brain electromagnetically. When they get to the brain, they harden.

I believe this is the future. It may be ready in some form in 5-10 years.

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December 5, 2022
Living With Major Depressive Disorder

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By Elena Sledge, as told to Kara Mayer Robinson

I’ve been living with depression for almost 12 years. I’m 31 now and I found out I had major depressive disorder when I was 19.

I had a miserable freshman year of college, but I didn’t really know what was wrong. I saw a therapist and the following summer, I was diagnosed with major depression. Looking back, I can see I was also depressed in high school.

Coming to terms with my diagnosis was a process. I had a hard time understanding why I was depressed and where it came from. In my mind, I hadn’t been through anything bad enough to warrant having major depressive disorder.

Therapy helped. My therapist normalized and validated my experience. At one point, she told me, “You have depression because you have it.” That’s something I’ve never forgotten.

I realized I needed to accept my diagnosis and take steps to help me.

Managing Symptoms

I’ve been in therapy fairly consistently over the years. That’s helped me the most.

I’ve also taken various medications. I took one SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) for about 2 years when I was first diagnosed. The effects wore off, but it helped me so much initially.

I tried other medications for short periods of time, like other SSRIs and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). They helped when I needed them. I’m 100% a supporter of medication for mental health, but it’s not something I feel I need right now. If that changes, I’ll probably try it again.

I’ve also made many lifestyle changes. Two years ago, I started working with a personal trainer because I was hardly active. I feel stronger and have more energy. I still work with the same trainer 4 days a week.

With exercise, I try to take care of my body in a way that feels good for me. I also focus on getting enough sleep. I hardly drink alcohol. I focus on keeping a routine in my day and taking care of my spiritual health.

Friends and Family Support

I feel fortunate to have the support that I do. I’ve done a lot to maintain close relationships because relationships are so important to me.

My husband is fantastic and has also lived with depression. Many of my friends and family have experienced depression or other mental health issues, so they have a lot of understanding.

It helps to have someone listen, care, and take the time to talk with you about what’s going on. Social support is huge. I believe human connection is so important for growth and healing.

Managing Triggers

I’m not consistently experiencing depressive episodes right now, but I find them easy to slip into. It’s interesting because my brain really knows how to be depressed. In a way, it’s so familiar and comfortable.

I sometimes struggle with feeling like a failure. It most often comes up in relation to my work. I’m a mental health counselor. Owning a private practice and trying to help others can sometimes be overwhelming and bring up depressive thoughts and symptoms.

I have to do a lot to manage my thoughts and not start shaming myself. To release my emotions, I write them down or talk them out with someone. I also reframe my thoughts to more compassionate ones like, “I’m enough,” “I’m trying,” or “It won’t be like this forever.”

I still spiral sometimes when there’s too much going on. My main trigger is being overwhelmed by personal events and world events. World events in the last 2 years have definitely had an impact. It’s so easy for anyone to feel hopeless and despair these days.

I know my triggers and I try to be proactive. I do best when I sleep enough, stay active, manage my schedule effectively, and show myself compassion. Depression likes to latch onto doubt. Thoughts of “You’re a failure” or “It’ll never get better” can grow pretty quickly.

My Biggest Hurdle

My biggest struggle was in my early- and mid-20s, when I was suicidal. Many times, I felt out of control and didn’t know if I could keep myself safe. My symptoms were bad, and I needed more support. I feel like therapy saved my life. Medication was important too. I overcame it then, but passive suicidal thoughts can still come up.

Living With the Ups and Downs

My ups and downs were much more intense and severe in my early 20s. The roller coaster can still be very hard, but I do generally experience a lot more peace at this point in my life.

When I feel great, I feel great. Sometimes I feel just OK.

To manage the ups and downs, I rely on what I know helps me, like going to therapy, getting support from my friends and my husband, and staying active.

What I Know Now

The most important thing I’ve learned is that I’m not my depression. It’s something I experience and live with, but it’s not me.

Depression has helped me grow and expand in ways I maybe wouldn’t have otherwise. I don’t wish it for anyone and if I had the choice, I wouldn’t pick it for myself either. But it’s the hand I was dealt and it’s OK to see how it has shaped me.

It made me more compassionate. It inspired me, along with a powerful therapist I once had, to become a therapist myself. It led me to support others.

I used to resent my depression a lot, but I don’t anymore. As awful as it’s been over the years, it’s an important part of my life and it’s helped me in many ways.

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December 5, 2022
How I Share About My Condition

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By Bianca Palmisano, as told to Hope Cristol

I talk a lot about what it means for me to be disabled, both with my friends and in the workplace. So talking about depression is quite common.

I do have a physical disability: a hypermobility spectrum disorder. It means some of my joints bend way past a normal range of motion, and I live with chronic pain. But I also consider my mental illness — major depressive disorder (MDD) – a disability, and I talk about it as a disability.

I think solidarity with this community is important. We support each other and advocate better for disability rights when we stand together.

Depression at Work

I don’t think depression is something you should have to hide on the job. It’s nothing to be ashamed of and it’s protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act, which gives you the right to ask for certain accommodations. But I understand why some people aren’t as open as I am. There was only one time when, unfortunately, being open about my depression didn’t go well.

I had a job that was really exhausting, and some tense work relationships started giving me panic attacks. When I asked to work from home 2 days a week, just to give myself space to get things done away from those stressors, I found there was a high bar to prove my need.

My therapist wrote a letter, but that wasn’t enough. I had to provide proof from a medical doctor, and I had nowhere to turn; at the time, I wasn’t on medication for my depression.

My request was denied and a few weeks later, I was let go for different reasons.

Having a job that’s a good fit with a supportive team makes all the difference. I recently became a forensic nurse, and the other day my boss asked me about taking some night shifts.

Sleep is a big need for me to function well. I can’t work overnight shifts. I also struggle with waking up early. These are physical issues, not lifestyle preferences. Fatigue and difficulty with early wake-up times are typical symptoms of major depressive disorder.

I said, “I’m happy to do that, but then I can’t work the very next day because of my depression and chronic fatigue.” That was just fine by my boss.

Trashing the Idea of “Taboo”

Talking about depression socially has never felt much like a disclosure. It’s always just been part of the conversation. My friends and I talk about how we feel, about our good days and bad days, and my depression informs all of that. I think it helps that many of my friends also have mental illness or are disabled in some way. There’s already an understanding in place.

But I also talk about my depression a lot on social media. One of the main reasons is to help normalize it, especially for people whose lives otherwise fit into a straightforward, standard-issue mold.

Mine doesn’t. I identify as nonbinary and queer, so I’m not expected to fit into that specific mold. For those who are, I want them to know that if they’re struggling with feelings of depression, I’m a safe person to talk to. I want them to know depression is not a bad thing.

It’s also my job to talk about a lot of “taboo” topics — and to help other people talk about them comfortably. [In addition to being a registered nurse,] I’m a health educator and owner of Intimate Health Consulting. We train health care professionals and organizations to understand and navigate issues around sexual health that require special care, like LGBT issues, sexual function problems, and sexual assault survivorship. A lot of times I’m talking about things that are uncomfortable for some people, but we need to talk about them.

I Have Privilege, so I Pay It Forward

I’m so grateful to live where I live and to have the community I have. I think that’s a big part of what gives me my own strength and my resilience.

I do sometimes get nervous sharing my diagnosis with new people or reaching out when I need help. It can feel scary to be vulnerable. But I remind myself that I deserve the same tenderness and care that I give to others. And I can’t receive that unless I’m open and I ask for help.

How I look is another big factor in being able to talk about these topics. I’m white, 5-foot-3, I have a babyface and thin privilege. My body is not seen as intimidating, so my difference isn’t as dangerous. The stakes for me coming out are different than if I were a person of color, overweight, or marginalized in a different way. For example, the stakes are higher for some people of color to identify with mental illness and be open about it. I can put many labels on myself that they can’t.

It’s not the label that matters anyway. As a friend and a nurse, I believe you can call yourself anything you want. I just want to make sure that you get the care that you need. I want to make sure that you’re OK, that you’re safe and that you’re living with the best life that you can. And I think people identify with that, label or no.

Those might be the words a person needs to hear to get professional support, or go on medications, or seek out better, less toxic support structures — maybe sports, religion, friends. People get mental health care in lots of different ways besides our traditional medical system. I hope that approach, that view of mental health and depression, resonates with the people I talk to.

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December 5, 2022
Keep It From Affecting Your Relationships
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By Deborah Serani, PsyD, as told to Hallie Levine

When it comes to talking about how depression affects relationships, I’m the expert. And it’s not just because I’m a psychologist. I’ve lived with major depressive disorder since I was 19. I not only work on this issue with my patients, but I encounter it in my own life every single day.

There’s no doubt that strong relationships can help provide a buffer against depression and lessen the severity of depressive episodes. One study, for example, followed American adults aged 25-75 for 10 years and found that people who reported poor relationships with their spouse or other family members were at higher risk of depression.

But it can be hard to maintain relationships when you’re hurting so much yourself. Here’s what I tell my patients and what I want everyone who experiences depression, and those who care about them, to know.

Depression can be hard to understand because it’s an “invisible” illness. This is especially true if you struggle with it yourself. Most of us “get” that a broken leg is an injury, for example, and that we need a cast and crutches so we can move around. But if you have symptoms of depression such as moodiness, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and just generally feeling sad and uninterested in anything, it can be hard to resist the temptation to just tell yourself to snap out of it.

But if you don’t accept the fact that your depression is real, and just as much of a chronic illness as high blood sugar or arthritis, you’ll be setting yourself up for relationship trouble. Why? You’re setting unrealistic expectations for yourself.

Your loved ones want to help you and make your life easier. They need you to tell them what you’re up for, and when you need help, or a break. Spouses and other family members tend to over-worry. You can make their lives and yours easier if you’re simply upfront about how you feel.

Make clear that depression isn’t your everything. It’s easy for loved ones to mistake real, authentic sadness or irritability for depression. You might be upset about the situation in Ukraine, or worried about COVID-19, and a loved one will mistake these genuine emotions as just a relapse of symptoms.

Again, they’re just looking out for you and your health. I recommend that you be upfront with them and say, ‘No, it’s not that I skipped my medicine, or that my depression is worsening. I have a real legitimate reason to be upset, and it’s X, Y or Z.’ Then talk to them about it. You’ll feel better for sharing your thoughts and they’ll feel better knowing that you’ve got a handle on your symptoms.

This is especially true when it comes to children. My daughter, who is now in her 30s, is used to having a mom with depression. When she was little, I could tell that she worried about me when I seemed quiet or moody. I’d at times have to reassure her that mom was fine.

Kids who have parents with depression tend to feel like they need to walk on eggshells, that they don’t want to upset that parent. They want to be caretakers, and they forgo their own needs because they want to make sure that they don’t set up a row of collapsing dominos for their mom or dad with a chronic illness.

It’s important that both you and your partner reassure them that they don’t need to feel that way. Let them know that yes, you’re OK, but you might need some time in the sun or to go for a walk outdoors to regroup and begin to feel like yourself again. Just as it’s important for you to check in on your own mental health, check in on theirs.

Be selective about who you share your depression diagnosis with. It might seem that you “should” be open about your depression and let your boss and co-workers know. But think carefully before doing so. Yes, we’ve come a long way in understanding mental illness, but it’s still stigmatized. Employers view depression differently than other chronic conditions like heart disease.
I’ve found this to be true in my own professional life. Yes, I’ve found that it helps patients to know that I also have days when I struggle to get out of bed, or that I’m well acquainted with the side effects of certain antidepressant medications. The stigma I’ve faced has been, surprisingly, from other therapists, who feel that I’m oversharing.

As a result, I’ve learned to be very careful about whom I share personal struggles with. You can have depression and be a wonderful parent and have a stellar career. But there’s still this misconception that if you have this condition, you’re flawed as a person. It’s very sad, but unfortunately, it’s a reality.

Check in with yourself frequently. It won’t just help you; it will help your relationships. I ask patients to ask themselves these three questions at least once every few weeks:

Has your partner commented that you seem more moody, sad, or irritable lately?

Have you found yourself struggling every day for at least 2 weeks in more than one situation? (For example, feeling overwhelmed with both your work and your kids.)

Are you finding it hard to do things with family and friends that you usually enjoy, like seeing a movie or going out to eat?
If at least one of your answers is yes, then check in with your therapist. And if you don’t have a therapist right now, consider getting one. You may also be due for a medication check, whether it’s to change drugs or up your dose.

Make it a priority to have some self-care time, too. It may seem like a luxury you can’t afford, either financially or time-wise. But if you take just a few minutes a week, whether it’s going to the gym or taking a relaxing bath, you’ll feel better about yourself and be more willing to give in your relationships. Trust me. Your partner, kids, friends, and other family members will thank you.
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December 5, 2022
Handling the Stigma

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By Sonja Wasden, as told to Kara Mayer Robinson

I’m a mental health advocate living with major depression.

I speak with Fortune 500 companies, women’s prisons, firefighters, police officers, drug rehabilitation centers, nonprofit organizations, and media outlets about the importance of mental health.

My hope is to break the stigma and let people know they’re not alone and can live a beautiful life despite having mental health challenges.

Common Misconceptions About Major Depressive Disorder

An important part of destigmatizing depression is breaking down common misunderstandings. While the perception of major depressive disorder is changing, many misconceptions linger.

For example, people often think depression is something you can brush off or flip like a light switch. They may say things like “cheer up” or “just be happy.” But depression isn’t a choice. It’s a feeling and it’s real.

Another misunderstanding is how it appears on the surface. Just because someone looks happy doesn’t mean they’re not struggling. Often, people with depression put on a happy face to hide it from others.

People sometimes think someone who’s struggling with depression is trying to get attention. But no amount of attention is worth the painful feelings of major depressive disorder.

The problem with the ongoing stigma is that it may prevent you from speaking up and getting the help you need. The stigma can even be triggered by your own feelings. In the past, I often felt I wasn’t worthy of help or I had no value because of my depressive disorder.

But people with major depressive disorder are some of the most resilient and hard-working people I know. It takes courage to face this condition day in and day out.

People with chronic illnesses like cancer or diabetes are often told they’re brave, courageous, and inspiring. People with major depression should be told the same.

How It’s Changing

The perception of major depression is changing. People are talking more about mental health, which helps.

COVID-19 has brought depression to the forefront. Studies report that the number of people experiencing depression has increased. For people with lower income and more stressors, the rate has tripled since the beginning of the pandemic.

As depression becomes more prominent, we’re having more critical mental health conversations. There’s a better understanding that people from all walks of life are experiencing depression. These honest conversations not only make people feel they’re not so alone, but also encourage people to speak up.

It’s also helpful that therapy is more common now. More people are going to therapy to improve their lives, even if they’re not struggling with mental health issues. This has reduced the stigma for getting therapy tremendously.

But there’s still stigma associated with taking mental health medication. It’s stigmatized to the point that many people who need it refuse to take it, even though it would help them improve their life greatly.

Accepting Your Diagnosis

It may be challenging to learn you have major depressive disorder.

When I got my diagnosis, my whole soul rebelled against it. I felt like my doctor was handing me a life sentence. I felt hopeless and helpless. I couldn’t see how I could live a normal life with depression as my constant companion.

But that changed. I’m grateful for my doctors, medication, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), and therapists who taught me I can have a life worth living despite my depression. Through medicine and learning new skills, I now have a very beautiful and full life.

When you learn you have a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, the first step in the healing process is radical acceptance. When you fight depressive emotions, it only gives them more fuel to thrive.

When I stopped fighting my diagnosis and started embracing it, that’s when the quality of my life improved. Of course, I still have hard days that I have to accept and manage, but the magic of acceptance is that it stops unnecessary suffering caused by resisting it.

Try to remember that there are millions of people who successfully live with difficult illnesses of every kind. You’re not alone. Chronic illnesses aren’t fun and they take daily management, but there’s power in acceptance. It’s the only way to move forward.

You may live your life differently than someone else without a depressive disorder and that’s OK. But it doesn’t mean you can’t have a full and meaningful life. Try to use self-help, self-love, and patience.

How You Can Help Break the Stigma

It takes everyone to break a stigma: celebrities, public figures, families, friends, schools, government leaders, news outlets, advocacy groups, doctors, therapists, and individuals.

One of the best ways you can help break down the stigma is to allow and participate in mental health conversations. Educate yourself. Be aware of the language you use. Show equality between physical and mental illnesses. Be compassionate.

Talk about it at work, with friends, and with family. Post on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook about things related to mental health awareness. Be one of the drops in a bucket. Each person’s voice matters.

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December 5, 2022
Major Depressive Disorder and the Changes It Brings

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Looks can be deceiving. Just ask Melissa Drake.

The 50-year-old author and consultant from Southern California says she had a good job, owned a home, and was raising a wonderful son. On the outside, her life looked pretty good. But nothing could’ve been further from the truth.

On the inside, Drake was in a life-and-death struggle with major depressive disorder — a diagnosis she got at 20 years old.

She admits it’s hard to explain what it’s like living with this condition. “I often describe depression as ‘everything and nothing at once,’ because nothing was really wrong, but everything felt wrong at the same time.”

Drake is not alone in her feelings.

People often say there’s no reason for them to be depressed, but yet they are, says Shawna Newman, MD, a psychiatrist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York. Some describe major depression as if they are living under a cloud or walking through mud, she adds.

But a closer look uncovers recognizable clues that can signal major depression.

Symptoms of Major Depression

Depression isn’t just simply feeling sad or blue. It’s normal to feel bad over the loss of a job, the death of a loved one, or another sad event, Newman says. The difference is that symptoms of major depression last at least 2 weeks, run very deep, and are not at all normal for you. Here are some changes you might see in yourself if you have major depression:

Sadness, emptiness, or irritable mood. You can’t seem to shake the low mood. You may be irritable too. If you are normally cheerful and you’ve turned consistently cranky, it could be depression.

Loss of interest. You may stay away from friends or loved ones, or stop doing things you used to enjoy. You may lose interest in sex too.

Sleep problems. You may find it hard to fall asleep, or you could toss and turn all night long. On the flip side, you might sleep much more than usual or nap during the day.

Change in eating habits. You could lose interest in food and lose weight, or you might begin to eat too much and gain weight.

Lack of focus. Work may become difficult because you can’t keep your mind on it. Many people describe this as “brain fog.” You could also see this loss of focus in your home life, social life, and personal relationships and conversations.

Changes in energy. Overwhelming weakness and exhaustion may make it difficult or impossible to peel yourself off the couch or get out of bed. In contrast, you may be full of energy and feel fidgety or shift in your chair or bed to try to get comfortable.

Hopelessness. You may have a bleak outlook and not see a way out of your depression.

Thoughts of death. These can range from thoughts like “It would be okay with me if I just didn’t wake up” to active suicidal thoughts or actions, Newman says. Making a plan to kill yourself or taking action (like buying medication for an overdose) takes these thoughts to the next level. It’s not common, but sometimes people with major depressive disorder have homicidal thoughts too.

If you feel like you may harm yourself or others, call 911 right away.

Get professional help if you have symptoms of major depression or are unsure about why you’re feeling so bad. Treatments like medicine, talk therapy, and others can work wonders. Opening up to a therapist often gives people a sense of relief right away, Newman says.

Melissa Drake’s Symptoms of Depression

Drake’s depression at times was severe. “I attempted suicide once, thought about it many other times, was recommended for in-patient hospitalization, and heavily medicated for more than 20 years.” Her most pressing symptoms were extreme exhaustion and a general feeling of sickness (malaise).

For 7 years, Drake was practically bedridden, only getting up to go to work and care for her son as a single parent. “There were times when I didn’t do laundry or chores for months while piles of mail went untouched for years.” Although she spent most of her time in bed, insomnia kept her awake at night and bathing and self-care were nonexistent.

“I was constantly numb, avoiding feelings and stuffing them down with food. I gained weight and ballooned to 307 pounds.”

Drake describes her lowest point to show just how bad her depression was: “I have two dogs that I adore. They are always in bed with me. One day one of them threw up in my bed. As dogs sometimes do, the other dog ate the vomit. I rolled over and went back to sleep. I did not bother to change my sheets — for weeks.”

Drake Finds Peace

The most important decision Drake made was to find a therapist. “It wasn’t until I understood and accepted that I had to do the work to recover and start taking steps toward recovery that I began to get better.”

She wanted someone who didn’t just pay lip service but who held Drake accountable for the better life she said she wanted. “That’s what she did and I am so grateful.”

Once she was out of the woods, Drake says she began to look for things that she enjoyed. She started to dance. “It was the medicine I needed to heal. It grounded me and put me back in my body.”

The year 2020 was especially tough for Drake. But today she’s doing well. “Not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but I’ve come a long way from being in bed for 7 years. I do work I love; I have a large group of friends; I enjoy dancing and nature,” Drake says. “Even through the tough times, my outlook is generally positive.”

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November 15, 2022