Published: May 09, 2008 11:12 am            

Depression topic of SIfCC luncheon

Sixteen representatives from 14 different faith groups joined the board of directors and staff from the Stillwater Interfaith Counseling Center (SIfCC) for their spring luncheon. The luncheon was held in the First Presbyterian Church’s new fellowship hall. Dr. Thad Leffingwell, associate professor of psychology and director of clinical training at Oklahoma State University, presented a talk titled “Depression: The Common Cold of Mental Health.”

Leffingwell stated that the analogy to the common cold is useful because depression is common. In fact about 10 percent of the population is depressed at any given moment and 25 percent will have depression at some time during their life. Unfortunately, the analogy breaks down because depression can have profound affects on those who suffer from it. “Depression should not be taken lightly.”

Depression has many causes. It can come from one’s genetics, an imbalance of body chemicals, stress, isolation or other environmental factors and psychological attitudes towards problems and other people. One may experience greater risk during changes in social identity, unpredictable or chronic stress — especially in dealing with health issues.

The elderly and new mothers are also at higher risk of having depression. Leffingwell said that many mothers are ashamed to talk about their sadness during what “should be the happiest time of the life;” yet many new mothers deal with postpartum depression and should seek help if they are persistently feeling down.

Leffingwell noted some different signs and symptoms of depression. Clinically, depression is diagnosed if an individual has five of the following nine symptoms: Persistent sad or down mood, hopelessness or pessimism, guilt, worthlessness or helplessness, loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbance, appetite or weight changes and thoughts of suicide or preoccupation with death.

One of the participants commented that individuals may also demonstrate passive suicidal tendencies, such as refusing to buckle seat belts or mentioning that they don’t care if they die or not. If you are concerned that a friend, relative or acquaintance is depressed, they may exhibit some signs. These signs include withdrawing from social activities, often calling in sick to work and being less productive. An individual may be more forgetful or make decisions more slowly; he or she may complain about poor sleep, low energy or pain or change their demeanor. Finally, depressed individuals may develop changes in their hygiene or dress habits.

Leffingwell was emphatic that there is good news about the treatment options for depression. Treatment includes counseling, medication and exercise. Many have found that a combination of these treatments will often speed up the recovery or provide longer-lasting benefits.

Participants received some advice about how to help those who may suffer from depression. Bringing up the matter with them is a good first step. For example, one can note that they haven’t seemed like themselves lately. This will allow the other person to open up about their feelings or concerns. If they think they need help, encourage them to seek information from their pastor, a psychologist or even looking through books or web sites.

It is normal to feel hesitant about committing to a treatment plan, but just looking at information may be an easy first step in getting help. Leffingwell also advised to be careful looking at web sites. Some seem very informative and helpful, but can be cleverly disguised advertisements. Finally, don’t forget to follow-up if the person decided to get help.

Robert Vincent, center’s executive director, concluded the talk by thanking the participants for their presence and sought continued support through donations, prayer and referrals.

The mission of Stillwater Interfaith Counseling Center (SIfCC) is to facilitate the growth and wellness of individuals, couples, families and groups through professional counseling, consultation and education. In this endeavor, SIfCC joins religious communities in a unique partnership of service and ministry that is respectful of individual beliefs and values.

SIFCC offers counseling services on a sliding-fee scale through two professional counselors, Julia Campbell, Ph.D. and Pat Darlington, Ph.D. The center is considering the possibility of providing similar talks to other groups and opening the luncheon to other participants. If you would like more information about SIFCC, please visit www.sifcc.org or write them at contact@sifcc.org. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a counselor, please call 624-5854.

        

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