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Depression
Medical Science

“The study found that 87% of evangelical clergy said they would encourage their congregants to seek help from a mental health professional when suffering from depression. (85% of Black Protestants, 97% of mainline Protestants and 99% of Catholics agreed.)” - RNS

Discussion

Sat, 03/22/25

Even beyond the use of medications, changes in diet and exercise can sometimes be a big help. I am not suggesting that this approach is a cure all at all. Instead, I am suggesting that when treating depression or any emotional response, one size does not fit all.

Sat, 03/22/25

JD is referring to what is referred to as "self-care", medically, and here's an example from the Mayo Clinic on the topic of depression in particular. It's worth noting that there are studies out there which have found that the effectiveness of self-care approaches that of medication.

One thing to note here--I have several family members struggling with mental illness, as well as two daughters who work as nurses and often get to help doctors make referrals--is that sad to say, the supply of competent mental health practicioners (for depression, psychiatrists who can prescribe medications) is far exceeded by the demand. So if you've got someone you love who might need care, it's a huge deal to encourage them to get it before things spiral out of control. It's awfully hard to catch up when it gets out of control.

Aspiring to be a stick in the mud.

Sat, 03/22/25

One thing to note here--I have several family members struggling with mental illness, as well as two daughters who work as nurses and often get to help doctors make referrals--is that sad to say, the supply of competent mental health practicioners (for depression, psychiatrists who can prescribe medications) is far exceeded by the demand. So if you've got someone you love who might need care, it's a huge deal to encourage them to get it before things spiral out of control. It's awfully hard to catch up when it gets out of control.

Sometimes a mental health professional is needed, but sometimes a functional medical provider is needed. My wife had some thyroid problems about 10 years ago. She had lost energy and motivation and that was depressing. Once she found out about her nutritional deficiencies as well as foods that she needed to cut that were causing problems she improved right away. Now she is in her best health both physically and mentally that she has been in her whole life.