Recently, I fielded a call from a worried mother. She believed her 15-year-old son was depressed and didn’t know where to turn. However, she did know that I speak openly about my depression, so she reached out to me. Above all, this mother needed encouragement and hope.
The first thing I did was listen. She shared what’s been happening in her son’s life. And the family dynamics they are living with. Next, I commended her on her willingness to reach out for help for her son. Then I provided her with numbers of a few therapists in the area as well as our local NAMI chapter.
Encouragement and hope are two essentials when faced with uncertainty and a worrying spirit. Depression is a scary illness, an isolating illness, and an illness that takes away hope.
My heart aches for this mother and her son for too many reasons to list. However, I believe with my whole self that with the proper diagnosis, treatment, and personal accountability—recovery is possible.
The time has come for us to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health disorders and normalize these illnesses. I receive many calls and emails from distraught individuals groping for a glimmer of hope. One caller literally asked me if she was going crazy. She had struggled with depression her entire life. And I couldn’t remember the last time she felt well. What a sad statement.
What can we do? Each of us, who has lived experience, can help others in their struggles. Provide a listening ear, a phone number of a therapist or a website to visit. But also, reassurance their feelings are caused by an illness. We owe it to each other to help in some way.
Reflection Question
What resources can you provide the next time you are asked to help?
About the Author
Carol A. Kivler is a nationally recognized mental health speaker, international executive coach/trainer, and author. Most importantly, she is a passionate consumer advocate for mental health. Carol is available for speaking engagements in the U.S and internationally. Email or call Carol at (609) 882-8988.
