Shedding a light on depression in Dunklin County

Jim Carrey, Robin Roberts and Ellen DeGeneres have made careers out of making us smile, but these three also share something else in common, something perhaps not as well known - all three have battled depression.

They are not alone however, as depression, along with other mental illnesses, affects millions of people. In May as a part of National Mental Health Month, mental health care providers are urging Kennett residents to remember that being aware of their mental health is as essential as maintaining their physical health.

The human mind can be affected by mental illnesses, just as the human body can be affected by illnesses like the flu, cancer and heart disease. However, many mental illnesses are not as recognizable as illnesses that affect the body, and consequently, they can go misunderstood, unnoticed and therefore untreated.

One recent study by America's Health Rankings found that Missourians had, on average, nearly four poor mental health days over a 30-day period. In this category, Missouri ranks 44th out of the 50 states -- nearly the worst in the nation. Clinical depression affects as many as one in five people at some point in their life, according to Missouri Department of Mental Health statistics -- and affects twice as many women as it does men. That is the equivalent of 6290.8 people in Dunklin County.

There is a difference between being clinically depressed and feeling blue for a few days. Clinical depression can be clearly diagnosed. The simplest way to understand it is in two parts, according to Dr. Deanna Pledge, a licensed psychologist with a private practice in Missouri. First, clinical depression affects a person by altering their normal, everyday life -- a person is less likely to feel motivated and less likely to enjoy activities they once did -- as well as by disrupting basic functions, like eating and sleeping. How long those conditions last are the other part of the diagnosis: Conditions that don't go away in a few weeks may be a sign of depression.

If those symptoms continue, a person should talk to a doctor. Mental illnesses can be diagnosed and treated, be it through therapy, medication or other means, just like other illnesses.

Dr. Erika Waller, a clinical psychologist at the University of Missouri said, "If you had high cholesterol and your doctor told you to change your diet and exercise or take a prescription, you would -- a professional mental health diagnosis is just like that. Even though there can be a stigma associated with it, depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric conditions."

For some, overcoming those stigmas that surround depression and other mental illnesses can be difficult. It is important to remember that mental illnesses do not make someone a bad or incompetent person. Family and friends can help reinforce that fact by stepping in with support: A network of caring, trustworthy friends provides a strong, stable emotional foundation, and a safe place to go in times of need.

Family and friends help in other ways, too, including recognizing that there's a problem. While some people acknowledge they might be depressed, others are completely unaware and may even deny any change has occurred. In those instances, "many times friends and family will notice something and speak up," says Pledge.

Depression can be caused by multiple factors including stress, numerous demands and multiple roles. At times, even "good" changes in one's life, such as a job promotion, can be stressful and lead to depression. In these situations, addressing the issue -- not avoiding it -- is the most important thing. Learning about mental health and possible treatments can be as easy as bringing it up during a routine check-up or physical.

"One of the things that most people find most comfortable is asking their regular physician," says Pledge.

To help yourself and other people in your family and community handle signs of depression, Health Literacy Missouri and the National Institute of Mental Health recommend:

* Get out of the house and engage in exercise and community activities. This is one of the best preventive measures and treatments for depression.

* Talk to your doctor if you believe you or someone you care about may be suffering from a mental illness. Some treatments may include medications, but others do not. Your doctor can help you with the right treatment plan.

* Don't wait to get help and in emergency situations, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 800-273-8255.

For more information about mental health services in your area, call Family Counseling Center at 573-888-5925.

* Information provided by Health Literacy Missouri.