Battling Depression: The Invisible Enemy

By: Terry Hall, MA, ADTR, LPC

Depression cuts across all class, race, and social barriers. One in four women is likely to experience severe depression, putting women at a significantly higher risk than men. Lisa's story exemplifies the depth and degree to which depression can impact one person's life.

A soft-spoken, thoughtful young woman, Lisa has battled bouts of depression since its onset at age 13. "Depression feels like a mental cancer, a disease which permeates every crevice of my brain. I would retreat to my room, shut out the light and completely isolate myself from family and friends. I felt even worse on beautiful days when the sun was shining. My relationships suffered, at a time when I needed support the most. I feared that my friends and family would tire of hearing about my suffering, so I distanced from them before they had the chance. Besides, I had no words to describe what I was going through. I had nothing to show people, no physiological diagnosis or illness that lent my problem more legitimacy. My problem was invisible to others. People's well-meaning attempts to help often made things worse. Suggestions that I had the "blues", that I "smile" and "look at the bright side" caused me to fee inadequate and helpless. And because I grew up in an affluent neighborhood, with a stay-at-home mom and all the material advantages, people sometimes wondered "what I had to be depressed about". I, too, questioned the legitimacy of my struggle.

Researchers point to a variety of biological, social, and psychological factors which may account for the high incidence of depression in women. For instance socially, young girls tend to be more protected and closely watched than boys, which can inhibit the development of a sense of mastery and self-esteem. A sense of mastery and adequate self-esteem tend to safeguard one from developing depression. Women with young children are also vulnerable to depression, and the institution of marriage does not seem to shelter women from developing depression as well as it does men. It makes sense that women who find themselves caring for spouses, children and, perhaps other family members, would find it challenging to devote time to their own personal growth and the quality of life.

Other medical and reproductive issues which are unique to women can lead to the development of depressive symptoms. For example, women who suffer miscarriages, struggle with infertility, go through perimenopause or surgical menopause are also vulnerable to depression. It is estimated that 37% of all women have had a significant experience of sexual or physical abuse by the age of 21, putting women at risk for depressive symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Furthermore, poverty and the stress resulting from various forms of discrimination render women more vulnerable to depression.

Over time, Lisa has discovered that a combination of medication and therapy has helped her to successfully cope with her depression. "Medication gives me the clarity and energy to fight. Therapy helps me to challenge my desire to isolate from others and to identify and voice my feelings. Therapy also allows me to mobilize my inner strength and resources."

At TEMENOS we believe that the relationship between the therapist and client provides a context for which healing can occur. Each of our staff has a unique blend of expertise in both traditional and alternative forms of therapy.

If you struggle with any of the telltale signs of depression: depressed mood (feelings of helplessness and pessimism), sleep disturbances (either inability to sleep, sleeping too much, or irregular sleep patterns), appetite disturbances (eating far less or more than usual), social isolation, feelings of worthlessness or self-blame, inability to concentrate (even on routine tasks), or substance abuse (alcohol or drugs), you may benefit from a consultation at TEMENOS. Our staff of fully credentialed and licensed professionals will help you to discover your own path towards healing, so that you can take charge of this invisible enemy. Depression is not a sign of personal weakness, nor can it be willed away. The first step to a healthier life begins with a phone call.

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