Facades: Dealing with Depression

It’s a tragedy that just doesn’t get addressed nearly as much as it should. I am talking about the tragic hint of thought to harm oneself or worse. I am not a mental health expert nor am I a doctor of any kind. As a long time and active blogger on Parkinson’s disease, sadly, I am occasionally approached by people with Parkinson’s who see no way out.

Appearances can be deceiving

The tragic death of designer Kate Spade is just one of the many shocking deaths that prove that appearances of having and achieving that perfect dream and care-free life is nonexistent. Depression can attack us all. Keeping up appearances and projecting the image that all is fine and good is a popular reaction to living with an illness. Denying that there is a problem, is just that, a problem. Maintaining a life of denial and cloaking one’s feelings hinders our ability to recognize that a problem is looming.

No embarrassment in seeking help

There is no embarrassment in seeking help when we need it. Recognizing our need for help or for outside advice is nothing to be embarrassed about. Adding a mental health practitioner to your care team may be just what you need to put you back on track.

Secrecy is a difficult roadblock to knowing about someone’s life and mindset. Unless we are alerted or let in, only then can we refer those who are struggling, to experts in mental health and neurology. Regretfully, some people are just too skilled at keeping secrets.  Communication is crucial.

Identifying new approaches

There are times in our lives where we must regroup and take another approach. If your approach isn’t working for you, you may want to look at the issue with fresh eyes. Be patient and willing to try a new approach to the same issue. Don’t give up. Be creative and seek options. If one approach doesn’t work that doesn’t mean that you have to abandon other new potential opportunities. There are choices for all of us — it just takes identifying those options.

If you have suicidal thoughts or feelings tell your physician, your neurologist, and seek out professional expert mental health in your area. Unleash your feelings to those close to you for the help that you need. If you need it, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-8255 and www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.