By Nancy Virden (c)2020
Major depression is a potentially fatal disease that affects 1 in 10 Americans over the course of any year. It can have relapses and remissions similar to other illnesses.
Major depression is very treatable with positive results 80% of the time! Yet needless misunderstandings and shame interfere with receiving professional help, and only about half of those suffering with major depression ever seek care. This contributes to a rising percentage of suicides.
Stigma is myths gone wild. Sadly, it is dangerous.
Myth: “Psychiatrists throw pills at you.”
She was defensive and huddling with her favorite excuses. Out of context it would seem she overreacted when, in response to my comment that medications have helped me, she spat out, “Psychiatrists throw pills at you, and you know they do!”
Considering her demeanor I had no interest in trying to make another point. Silently I listened to her barrel on, convinced or convincing herself that she was right.
Of course I did not agree with her about psychiatrists. She was confusing the term with someone who offers talk therapy. When she saw a psychiatrist, he did what psychiatrists do – listened to her describe her symptoms and prescribed medicine. As MDs, that is their job.
From many people I have heard the same type of complaint. “All my psychiatrist did was write a prescription.” “My psychiatrist only has 15 minutes for me.” If you seek a psychiatrist, leave your expectations of talking at home.
Psychologist, the term often confused with psychiatrist, most often describes the one who sits with you for an hour and talks over your concerns. A psychologist is not a medical doctor. You will not receive recommendations for medication or scrips. This doctor (PsyD or PhD) is especially trained in talk therapy techniques and diagnosis.
If you want someone to talk to, look for a psychologist or licensed counselor/therapist.
As for those pills that psychiatrists are supposedly throwing, most people who receive professional mental health treatment find the combination of medication and talk therapy most effective.
Today’s Helpful Word
Proverbs 18:14-16
The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge for the ears of the wise seek it out.
Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.
*** COMMENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.
If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.
If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!
Always the Fight 