In The News: Research on Depression and Reaching Out

Amazing reading on the Independent’s website relating to the way depression can affect us on a fundamental level, rendering the world a less colourful place, contributing to the effects of the illness.

Scientists say that the onset of depression can act rather like a remote control, turning the contrast dial on the world, via the retina, making the experience of life for sufferers less vibrant, less vivid and more foreboding. It’s a very visceral way of thinking about the illness, which affects millions of people and is far more common than many people realise. In my capacity as a psychologist, I see it so regularly and it really is an issue close to my heart.

It would be trite and inappropriate to offer advice to those who are clinically depressed here, as the condition needs the right treatment. All I would say is that, if you know somebody who appears to be suffering or if you yourself feel you are slipping, then there are things you can do to avoid this crippling state of mind.

If you know someone who is suffering from depression, offer help and reassurance, and make it clear that there is medical help available to anybody you know in this situation.

If you yourself are experiencing any kind of despair, short of depression but equally upsetting, (perhaps you’re reading this following a break up and are at a loss as to what to do) then it is possible to pull yourself from the mire of bad feeling.

When afflicted with sadness, our best bet is to reach out to sympathetic friends and family, or, if we feel it is more serious, a medical professional.  The worst thing is to withdraw – which is what so many people who suffer with depression do.  All the research and my own clinical experience suggest that those less likely to suffer depression – are those with a good perceived social network.

Friends and family are so easily taken for granted when the going is good, but when we suffer a setback, we start to see the value in our ever-present support network. Even if they can’t be there in person, the telephone, messages and skype-type communication systems we have these days can ensure we need not be alone.  With all the social media and modern ways of communicating, it’s never been easier to reach out to each other.

It’s the company of a positive influence that can really kickstart recovery. A friend or family member can empathise with us and, knowing us as well as they do, may be able to help and guide us in deciding what the best course of action is.

The amazing thing that happens, when we muster up the courage to reach out and admit things aren’t all rosy –  is that you suddenly discover that so many of your friends, family, colleagues and acquaintances, you thought were completely ‘sorted’ and ‘together’ have also struggled with something.  Sometimes it’s the first time many connect with each other on a ‘real’ level.  Your reaching out often gives others permission to be ‘real.’

And don’t we need that in this world where life seems to be all about projecting perfection, success and often feeling we have to pretend to be someone we are not?

Reach Out and Be Real – and see what happens.