Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Depression Awareness Month

Everyone knows that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, but few people know that it's also Depression Awareness Month. Just because it's not cancer doesn't mean that depression isn't serious. Here are some statistics on depression from Uplift Program:

  • Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year. This includes major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, and bipolar disorder.
  • Everyone, will at some time in their life be affected by depression -- their own or someone else's, according to Australian Government statistics. (Depression statistics in Australia are comparable to those of the US and UK.)
  • Pre-schoolers are the fastest-growing market for antidepressants. At least four percent of preschoolers -- over a million -- are clinically depressed.
  • The rate of increase of depression among children is an astounding 23% p.a.
  • 15% of the population of most developed countries suffers severe depression.
  • 30% of women are depressed. Men's figures were previously thought to be half that of women, but new estimates are higher.
  • 54% of people believe depression is a personal weakness.
  • 41% of depressed women are too embarrassed to seek help.
  • 80% of depressed people are not currently having any treatment.
  • 92% of depressed African-American males do not seek treatment.
  • 15% of depressed people will commit suicide.
  • Depression will be the second largest killer after heart disease by 2020 -- and studies show depression is a contributory factor to fatal coronary disease.
  • Depression results in more absenteeism than almost any other physical disorder and costs employers more than US$51 billion per year in absenteeism and lost productivity, not including high medical and pharmaceutical bills.
  • Antidepressants work for 35 to 45% of the depressed population, while more recent figures suggest as low as 30%.
  • Standard antipressants, SSRIs such as Prozac, Paxil (Aropax) and Zoloft, have recently been revealed to have serious risks, and are linked to suicide, violence, psychosis, abnormal bleeding and brain tumors.
  • Government (FDA) warnings highlight concerns over the efficacy and use of antidepressants in children. Antidepressants with the exception of Prozac have been banned in Britain for children. The BMJ recently reported they found no scientific evidence whatsoever that SSRIs work for preschoolers (or for anyone under eighteen).
  • Antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) work only as well (or less) than placebos.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has an 80% relapse rate in the long term.
  • Physiological problems, plus learned beliefs and behaviors, make functional decisions difficult, and the results reinforce the depression in a vicious cycle.
  • Depression can “somatize,” or become expressed in the body.
  • 80% of people who see physicians are depressed.
  • Studies are increasingly linking more illnesses to depression, including: osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease, some forms of cancer, eye disease and back pain.

Some of the symptoms of depression in adults are:

  • Persistent sad or "empty" mood.
  • Feeling hopeless, helpless, worthless, pessimistic and/or guilty.
  • Substance abuse.
  • Fatigue or loss of interest in ordinary activities, including sex.
  • Disturbances in eating and sleeping patterns.
  • Irritability, increased crying, anxiety or panic attacks.
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions.
  • Thoughts of suicide; suicide plans or attempts.
  • Persistent physical symptoms or pains that do not respond to treatment.
(From SAVE.org)


Depression is something that I suffer from and most people don't understand it at all. It makes everything in my life difficult, even very simple things. Maybe if there was more awareness about depression, more people would understand.

The color for depression awareness just happens to be my favorite polish color: Green.


You can find more information and resources for depression at the National Institute of Mental Health.

129 comments:

  1. thanks for this post Scarngie *hugs* beautiful nail colour as usual.
    I also suffer from depression :(

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  2. Thank you so much for this post Scrangie. I knew depression is a huge problem but seeing those statistics was a huge eye opener. Maybe if we raise awareness we can get help for more people and more research into the causes/treatment. Guess I'm breaking out the green polish today!

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  3. Great, informative post. Thank you!

    (((Hugs)))

    -vennie

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  4. This is a great & informative post. I was unaware until now that depression had it's own month, but I think I need to go do a green mani =)

    I'm one of the people who has never seen a doctor for my depression, mainly because I have no desire to be medicated, partly because ... well, lots of reasons, I don't want to ramble too much here. But, oddly enough, blogging is one of the things that helps me feel better =) Maybe always having something to look forward to, maybe having someone to talk to even if only online.

    I hope you have something or someone to help you also - and if it's the blog for you too, well, lucky us =)

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  5. I did not know that! I don't even think we have that kind of thing here in Sweden...a depression awareness month, I mean. Depression do we have a lot of though, it really sucks. I suffer from it like you do, and medicate for it. I hope both you and me can be happy and free on our own some day!

    Is it OK if I link to this post in my blog? I'll write it's from you :)

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  6. I also suffer from depression. I really appreciate you doing something to increase people's awareness and understanding of it. I think it's slowly becoming less stigmatized thanks to people talking openly about it. Scrangie, you're awesome!

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  7. Wow, Scrangie. I really want to thank you for this post. This is a wonderful attempt to create more awareness about depression.

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  8. I believe I was suffering from depression since April 2009 and just came out of it last week. Talking to someone really helps. Don't keep it all bottled inside. Last week I called a charity, The Samaritans and even though there was no "solution", it felt so good to talk to someone that I can truly say I am out of depression. Don't think of asking for help being weak as it takes strength to ask for help and actually seek it.

    Great post Scrangie

    xxo

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  9. Great post.
    I'm sure some will ask, how can that beautiful girl who writes a great blog be depressed?
    Personally, I always characterized it as trying to ice skate on concrete.
    Everything is so much more difficult.

    No pity party here though.
    Rock on Scrangie!

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  10. I have followed your blog for some time now but never have left a comment. Thank you for posting this.By speaking out to inform others on depression statistics and your own struggle with it is very brave and empowering. Thank you again. And your nails, swatches and color preferences are fabulous to boot : )!!

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  11. thank you for posting. i suffer from severe depression and i can't remember a time in my life where i wasn't wearing this heavy cloak of sadness. i'm sorry you have to endure it as well.

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  12. I applaud you for posting this Scrangie! I have no idea what it is like to be depressed in the US culture, but I am very well aware of what it's like in Sweden, being a sufferer since childhood and under treatment for 15 years. I've suspected sometimes that you are also one of us many, silent, sufferers, and I think it's great that you're pointing people's attention to the problem and compel everyone to just be aware.

    <3 to you!

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  13. The color green is beautiful. I think everyone, at one point or another, has gone through a bout of depression. It can be so painful and you feel so alone... Thank you for letting us know about this.

    Sunny

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  14. Thank you for posting that ♥

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  15. i am a clinical psych grad student who studies depression. this is awesome and I have on green polish today too! (Orly Enchanted Forest). Only thing I'd like to add is I'm not sure about the stat that SSRIs only work as well as placebos. I know for a fact that SSRI + CBT works way better than placebo, so people shouldn't get discouraged. some treatments do work.

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  16. Thanks for your lovely blog! I have loved nail polishes for three decades and complained about the lack of cool colours here in Finland. Then I suddenly found a real nail polish paradise on the Internet, i.e. American online stores and some very nice polish blogs, such as yours that I visit every day. It has given me so much joy! Thank you for cheering me up! :-)

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  17. I have it, my mom has it, and her mom has it. You can't tell me there isn't a genetic link here.

    I'm lucky in that we've found a med and dosage that works pretty well for me. I'm also very aware of myself and how I'm feeling - it can get tiresome, but it helps if I can catch myself on a downswing. Looking back, I think I probably had episodes from about 12 on - and no, it wasn't just moody hormonal girl stuff, lol. Back then, though, no one had heard of it, or if you did, it certainly wasn't something to talk about.

    Does anyone else think that our electronic society, with little REAL communication between people anymore, can contribute? I'm an introvert, yet I find that when I have real conversations with real people, I tend to feel better. Just an observation.

    Here's hoping that the stigma will continue to be removed and that everyone needing help can and does get it.

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  18. Scrangie: Thank you so much for this post. I have very bad problems with depression also. Green is also my favorite color of nail polish.

    xo - Marsha S. - heisey123 on MUA

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  19. Scrangie,

    Thank you for posting this, it's very important to get the word out and thank you for sharing about your own struggles, helps everyone know they aren't alone and its nothing to be ashamed about.

    Thank you,

    Jessica

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  20. I do appreciate this post, mostly. I have had issues with depression for years and years. I was in therapy and counselling for a very long time with very little improvement. It was terrible, like being stuck in this giant miserable hole and there's just no way out; considerably the worst time in my life ever. It was completely debilitating. I began to fail all my classes, lost my job.

    It was suggested that I take medication and I was skeptical but willing to do absolutely anything. Well, it didn't work. The physical side effects just made everything worse. So I tried another. And, third times a charm: after being on the third medication, it was like these big giant chains just dropped from my body. I was finally able to function like a normal human being. No, I'm not chipper and super happy. But I'm normal, I guess.

    I think antidepressants get a real bad rap. I just want people to know that antidepressants are godsends for some people. They don't work for everyone, indeed not. But I guarantee I wouldn't be here today without them.

    I'm not discounting the use of therapy and counseling. I was actually a psych major in college, so I'm a big proponent. I was very disappointed when therapy didn't work for me.

    Sorry for the long comment! I understand if don't post it.

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  21. Thank you for the very informative post! Also, I would like to say you have the best swatches. They always make me want to purchase the polishes ASAP!! <3

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  22. thankxxxx for posting this, more people should be aware so they can be more understanding, i learned that the only people who understand depression are the ones who had or have one...

    big hug for everyone suffering from depression

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  23. Me too, Scrangie - you hang in there! Big hugs!

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  24. Thanks for sharing this. We need more education and awareness.

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  25. I wish they would stop with the commercials for drugs though - pharmaceuticals aren't always the answer for depression. I'm glad you included those statistics.

    You rock. *hug*

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  26. Thanks Scrangie. I have talked to you about my own depression in the past. People still don't get it.

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  27. thank you so much for your post. it really touched a nerve, as i also suffer from manic depression (and so do my brothers and my mum - undiagnosed tho).

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  28. Scrangie, thank you so much for posting this. I suffer GREATLY from depression and nothing seems to help. It's hard to get through the day sometimes.... some days I wonder how I do it. I reposted your blog on my Facebook, I hope that was ok. Much love and hugs, Crysti

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  29. Thanks for this post. I was diagnosed at 13, and dealing with it every day since then has been a struggle. Luckily I've found a doctor who I work well with, and a boyfriend who is very supportive, but it's been the most difficult thing I've ever dealt with. I'm glad that people are finally becoming more aware than depression is a disease, and not a personal failing. Next time I change my polish it'll be green in support of this! Looking down at happy, colorful fingernails is one of the things that get me though the day.

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  30. Thank you Scrangie! I too have depression (along with anxiety) and have been dealing with it most of my life. When I was 11 my Mother died from Alcoholism....most likely brought on by Depression. My older Brother is a severe alcoholic....most likely brought on by Depression. So when my 12 year old daughter started showing signs of serious depression, I wasted no time in taking her to the Doctor! She is now on medication and see's a therapist and is a MUCH happier child. Today she told me that a kid at school said she was "disturbed in the head" because she see's the therapist at school....it is exactly THAT kind of thinking that needs to stop! People need to recognize depression for what it is...a REAL disease! Sorry to go on about it, this just really touched a nerve with me today....

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  31. Thank you for reminding us about this. Depression is a very serious issue unfortunately :(

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  32. Thank you for sharing this, since depression is an epidemic that often goes ignored.
    I've been there and it still pops up every once in a while. You're right when you say no one understands.

    BTW, I like your manicure. :)

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  33. Thanks for the post, I suffer from depression as well, but looking at your colorful swatches always makes me feel a litte bit more cheerful :)

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  34. Thanks for the post! I suffer from depression as well, but watching your colorful swatches always makes me feel a bit more cheerful :) Keep up the good work!!

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  35. Thank you for posting about this and putting the awareness out there. I have many loved ones that are battling Depression.

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  36. @Scrangie- I agree with you! Can I post a link to your post on my blog?

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  37. Thanks for posing this and getting more people aware of this. I didn't know that there was a Depresion awareness month, but now I'll tell EVERYONE. haha.

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  38. Green is my favorite color, too. I suffer from depression off and on, mostly situational. My live-in boyfriend struggles with understanding it. Thank you for this post on your excellent blog.

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  39. I've never posted a comment on a blog before, but just felt compelled to thank you for posting about this subject. Thank you for raising awareness of this misunderstood disease.

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  40. Thank you for posting this!!

    I sought treatment from several different therapists, over the course of about 20 years, before I finally found one who was willing and able to help me get to the root of the problem.

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  41. Thank you for your post, Scrangie. Like you and so many others, I suffer from depression. Life can be very difficult, often overwhelming... it's helps to know there are others out there who are going through the same thing. The more we educate ourselves, the better we can deal with our own personal demons.

    Sending you my love.

    ps, Your swatches always put a sweet little sparkle in my day! Hooray for color therapy. :)

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  42. Thank you for this post! Depression is something I and many in my family have struggled with and it is so true that most people who haven't just can't understand at all. <3<3<3

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  43. Thank You so much for posting this! My Husband suffers from Bipolar manic depression which has lead to other serious issues and has left him disabled and very isolated.
    Support is key to all depression sufferers and their families!

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  44. Scrangie - great post thanks for bringing this subject up! It's definitely not anything to be ashamed about, and depression is just as important an issue as breast cancer is. You rock.

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  45. Thank you for posting this... I suffer from depression and I didn't even know that it had its own month. I will definitely be rocking the green nails this month in support. Thanks again!

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  46. Scrangie, thank you so much! I am only echoing everyone else's thoughts, but this is a serious matter and overwhelming numbers of people suffer from this, often undiagnosed, I find. I too suffer from depression. Sometimes it's a struggle just to get through daily functions, I find I'm constantly physically exhausted when I'm depressed.
    I really appreciate you posting this - I'd have to agree that it's widely misunderstood.

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  47. Thank you so much for this post. I too suffer from depression. I am on medication, but it doesn't always make me feel better. It only helps me sleep really. Hugs to you for putting this out there for all to be aware of!

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  48. Excellent post, and brave - as a fellow sufferer (I'm actually Bipolar-II but my "manias" are very mild. My depressive periods, not so much), I know how difficult it can be to openly admit to a problem that so many people see as some sort of personality flaw. I do hope you have found a treatment that helps you manage (I'm on the SSRI + CBT plan myself.) Much love to you, lady!

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  49. From one sufferer to another, thank you for this post AND for your courage in bringing the disease out into the open. Granny Carol

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  50. Hey Scrangie, this is the first time I heard of October being Depression Awareness Month. Thank you for this post. Your manicure looks awesome as well. Also if you dont mind, can you tell me the name of that polish? I dont think i've seen a green so deep!

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  51. Thanks for this post... I suffer as well. youre awesome!:)

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  52. I really admire you for using the popularity of yr blog to raise awareness for something so important that we've overlooked.

    thank you scrangie. :)

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  53. Thank you for posting this Scrangie! Depression is a really big deal; I see what it has done to my mother. She started having depression a couple of years ago and the change was really sudden. She takes medication for it now and that helps her a lot. Thank you again for this post, I had no idea that it was Depression awareness month, and now I am going to do my own mani for it! *hugs*

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  54. Thanks for sharing this, Scrangie! As Bill said, people wonder how a beautiful woman with a great blog can be depressed - and it's only because they don't understand.

    Been there. Still there.

    ~kickyouonce on mua

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  55. Thank you so much, Scrangie! I haven't been formally diagnosed with depression, but I have been in and out of counseling for the better part of the last 6 years. I commend you for bringing light to a topic that's so misunderstood. (((hug)))

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  56. Great post...as someone who's fought depression for years, I really appreciate it. That said, what is that gorgeous, gorgeous polish?? :)

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  57. Thank you for posting this Scrangie. Depression is so misunderstood is all mental illness. It's hard for people to come out and talk about it. I have suffered with depression for more than 10 years now. I went through a really bad time after the birth of my youngest son and it is very hard to find others that understand. I am going to post a link to your article on BeautyBuzz and on my Twitter page if that is alright with you. Thanks again and to everyone out there going through something, find someone to talk to that can help. Sometimes you just have to reach out to one person and it can make a huge difference.

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  58. Looking at the amount of comments and support left for this post, I think you should be very proud of sharing this with all of us. I also suffer from depression and I only found out recently even though I've been depressed for a few years now. A lot of people, including myself does not understand that it is an illness, an illness that should not be taken lightly. It's not "oh, you just feel sad, boohoo", or what certain cultures say ("it doesn't exist"). The emotions are real, the pain is real, the illness is real. I wish more people are informed about depression and be more aware of those that may be depressed. Sometimes, all we need is a little motivation to go get help. My prof gave me that little push and I will never be able to thank her enough for it. Thank you for this post, Scrangie! I'm gonna go whip out some green polish now! =) Keep up the amazing work! Much love and support!

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  59. I can't thank you enough for this post. I've been suffering with depression (and anxiety) since I was 13. I still haven't found a treatment that works for me. I didn't even know Depression Awareness Month existed.

    I love the manicure and your blog in general :]

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  60. This post brought tears to my eyes.I have struggled with depression on and off since my teen years, and lost several family members to this disease.Thank you so much for using your wonderful blog as a platform to raise awareness about this issue.

    *Hugs* Ginger

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  61. Thank you so much Scrangie for posting this. We need raise awareness. My aunt died of depression and I have a mild case of it. Thank you.

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  62. Depression sucks. :( Thanks for posting this!

    - sybelle

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  63. I hear you Scangie...this just happens to be the month it starts up for me too. Seasonal for me, even though i live in sunny so cal, I "hibernate" every year.... my funk.
    The irony of your timing on this post for me is especially deeply personal.
    Thanks for the nudge.

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  64. Thank you for this post, Scrangie! I am also a sufferer of depression and you are completely right, other people just don't get it.

    Also, what polish brand/color is that? I am obsessed with greens right now. :)

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  65. Thank you for posting this Scrangie, and for sharing. I could go on for a long time about depression, since I have some training in this area. As a psychologist, I think it is important to be educated on this, and choose a treatment that works for you. For some, drugs are fine, but for many people they are not enough. I hope everyone who suffers from depression finds some way of dealing with the symptoms, if not the root causes (not always easy to determine or change).

    I have gone through milder forms of depression at times, and realized it stems from my need to please and my harsh internal critic. It has taken time to learn to say no to others, and to silence the critic. Once I was able to do that, I explored the reasons for these factors, and realized that they stem from parental interactions. It doesn't help that we still feel that women have to please others and meet their needs, while denying their own. I have dealt with those issues, and now that I have a handle on things, I can move forward and not feel down. I encourage everyone to engage in some form of self-exploration, whether it is blogging or journalling. Even if you don't immediately feel better, then at least you are talking about your feelings.

    Hugs to everyone!

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  66. Thank you so much for this post. I suffer from severe depression (and a social anxiety disorder) and I didn't even know it was Depression Awareness month. You'd think I'd be seeing posters in my shrinks' offices for the past however many years they've designated the month (it's been 20+ years for me suffering from it), but I've never seen a one.

    Well, I'm glad they picked green, since it's my favorite color too (and it's a nice color to break up all the pink we're seeing... I believe in Breast Cancer Awareness, but I start to hate pink after a short while). I'll have to go through my ribbons and make a few pins. Hopefully next they'll do Anxiety Awareness or Mental Health Awareness and my choice for that ribbon is either plaid or paisley. LOL! (Gotta keep my sense of humor or I'm doomed ;-) ).

    Thanks again.

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  67. Many people just don't realize how debilitating depression can be. Sometimes it's a struggle just to get out of bed, sometimes just moving is draining.

    I've been slipping back into my old pattern of depression and I wanted to thank you for posting this little reminder.

    This sounds like a good excuse to wear OPI Here Today, Aragon Tomorrow and do some thematic nail art, though! To be honest, doing my nails has really helped to keep me going, and your blog and beautiful swatches keep me inspired.

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  68. Hi Scrangie - great post. Thank you. (Like so many others, I'm a long-term sufferer from chronic depression; medication mostly works for me and I hope beyond hoping that I can just stay on it for life the way I'll stay on asthma medication for life, and never have to have big problems again.)

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  69. I really appreciate this post, Scrangie. First, your nails look great, like always :] Secondly, I too suffer from depression, and some people just don't understand it. Like you said, maybe if there is more awareness...Sorry I know you have tons of comments to read, especially on this post, but I really want to commend you on such an honorable post.

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  70. let me add my thanks for this post. i also suffer from depression and take medication daily and have for almost 9 years. if you don't have it, i don't think you fully understand it. thanks for bringing some awareness. and of course, i love the mani :)

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  71. •Antidepressants work for 35 to 45% of the depressed population, while more recent figures suggest as low as 30%.
    •Standard antipressants, SSRIs such as Prozac, Paxil (Aropax) and Zoloft, have recently been revealed to have serious risks, and are linked to suicide, violence, psychosis, abnormal bleeding and brain tumors.

    I am recently starting to see the truth of this. I wonder if all these drugs they are pushing are helping or are possibly even harmful in the long run. Time to try and get off being medicated imo.

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  72. I suffer from chronic depression and I never knew it had a month! I know what month Epilepsy is (next month) and Autism Awareness and Cerebral Palsy Awareness but I never researched for depression. Thank you for such a great post!

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  73. Scrangie, I wasn't even aware that there was a depression awareness month, or that there is a representative color.

    Thank you for your honesty and your courage, and for bringing to light a disease that many suffer from while feeling alone and ashamed.

    It's a very difficult disease for those who have not suffered from to comprehend.

    I also suffer from anxiety and depression, and I'm going to paint my nails a brilliant green and use it as a conversation piece when they are commented on.

    Deepest thanks.

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  74. Thank you so much. You have been able to express something better than I ever could have. Sadly, I too suffer from depression. I wish there was more understanding as well. For now, those who suffer it understand it, and hopefully everyone has a good support system as do I to help them deal with it in a good way. Good luck!

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  75. Thank you so much for your post, Scrangie. My roommate suffered from depression -- I think most people have no idea how very difficult this disease can be.

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  76. This is a great post and I didn't know! Thank you for bringing awareness to this. Depression has touched my life and my loved ones and I know it is not only a mental but physical illness. Thank you for sharing this with us, and like many others here, I have to add a *hug*!!!!

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  77. October is a month to look at the positives in life....
    I also suffer from depression, but we need to also remember October is breast cancer awareness month (which my mother in law is in remission).

    I love the ribbon nail detail...anyway you can do a tutorial on it?

    thanks again

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  78. Scrangie,

    Thank you for this post. I was hospitalized with severe depression last year. It's been a difficult recovery with lots of medications, but weirdly enough, nail polish has been a real help. Just looking down at my hands and seeing pretty colors is surprisingly helpful. It also gives me something else to focus on. Thank you for your wonderful blog.

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  79. Thank you for this post Scrangie! I saw a flier with information like this on my college campus billboard 9 years ago, and it helped me recognize my own symptoms and seek the help I needed. I am a BIG advocate in talking about it and putting a face on it. I own my depression, and it is absolutely CRUCIAL for those of us that suffer from it to talk about it, and to show others how awesome we are and how this disease touches so many lives. Love!

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  80. Thank you for this. :) I've been suffering from varying degrees of depression for as long as I can remember, but I didn't know there was a month dedicated to its awareness. I'm not on any medication now (I was on Prozac for a few years back when it was first out and it harmed more than it helped), and while it's a struggle at times, I'm getting by well enough.

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  81. Erin (chickpea on mua)October 7, 2009 at 10:10 PM

    Scrangie, you truly rock. Of course, I knew you rocked before -- just by being such an amazing NBer on MUA and creating such a fantastic blog -- but now I love you a million times more.
    =)
    I have suffered from depression for most of my life (as have pretty much all the females on my maternal side....*sigh*) and really applaud you for raising awareness about such an important issue that affects so many people. Anything that anyone can do to help erase the stigma is one more (pedicured!) step forward for all of us.
    Hugs....oh, and BTW, that green mani is beyond gorgeous.

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  82. Thanks for this post Scrangie, I had no idea that this was Depression Awareness Month.

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  83. Thank you for posting this, Scrangie. I have depression and didn't even know there was a month and a color for us! I'm lucky enough to have it mostly under control these days (meds + therapy is working for me), but I went through some extremely bad times that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.

    Kudos on 'coming out' about having depression. We love you and think you're awesome!

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  84. I was diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder in 2003. In addition to the Schizophrenia-type symptoms, I have to deal with Depression. I can identify with one poster's analogy to ice skating on concrete. There are some days when I don't even want to wake up in the morning. If it weren't for the treatment and the support of those around me, I probably wouldn't.

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  85. As a mental health professional I really admire and respect that oyu have brought this to people's attention. Along with depression there are a multitude of mental illness that other's either have no clue about or just avoid thinking about because "that's not going to happen to me" Kudos to you for this and thanks for keeping the strength to keep blogging!

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  86. Thank you for your post. So many people don't know or understand depression.

    I am going to wear green soon! :)

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  87. Hi Scrangie,
    Thank you for your efforts to reduce the stigma of depression, and the many wonderful comments today from your readers.

    I do respectfully disagree with this statement:
    Antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) work only as well (or less) than placebos.

    While it is accurate that some studies on _some_ SSRI's showed equivalent outcomes to placebos, there were many more studies that showed better outcomes for SSRI's and related classes of antidepressants vs placebo. Depression is a brain disease, with changes in the neurotransmitter levels in the brain, and medications do successfully re-regulate these vital "brain chemicals" for many people.

    The FDA (in the US) does not approve medications unless they perform significantly better than placebo on the majority of their clinical trials, and the trials have to meet certain standards as well.

    I would urge people to talk to a trusted doctor as well as a therapist, and try multiple types of treatment until they find the right choice for them.

    People can find joy in their lives again; there is hope.

    Thank goodness as well for creative interests that give us pleasure during difficult times--- like playing with beautful colors, and posting pictures of nail polish!

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  88. Many hugs to you. You are beautiful on the inside as well as the outside. Take care of yourself. And thanks for all you do.

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  89. Dear Scrangie,

    Thanks for your post. I have been suffering from depression since I was 19, and have had three major depressive episodes (including one post-partum episode) as well as numerous "minor" ones. I've done some terrible things to myself in my low moods. It's comforting to know there are people out there who can empathise. I didn't know that someone who can write such a wonderful cheerful blog would suffer from the same debilitating mental illness as myself. *hugs Scrangie*

    I've taken up long-distance running and I have been doing better of late. Perhaps you might like to include in your blog post that exercise is a good drug-free way of alleviating depression symptoms, since the endorphins naturally secreted during exercise can improve one's mood for up to 12 hours.

    (By the way, that's a beautiful green. What colour is it?)

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  90. I'm just echoing everything else said before me, but thanks for the informative post. I didn't know October was Depression Awareness Month either. I've suffered from depression since I was a teenager. It is hard for people to understand what it's like. Just know you're not alone! *hugs*

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  91. Reading this post made my day. I too suffer from depression (diagnosed for 6 years although I now believe it began much earlier than that and I simply didn't recognise it).

    I am on an SSRI which has helped me immensely, but of course different things work for different people.

    I have also struggled with feeling ashamed and embarrassed about being depressed, although my mum is always trying to convince me that it is really no different to having any other illness. I still find it hard to tell friends and others about it.

    Thank for bringing more awareness to this issue, and for showing us that it isn't something we need to be ashamed of. Thank you, it really means a lot!

    *hugs*

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  92. "Antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) work only as well (or less) than placebos."

    where is the proof for this, considering sales of antidepressants are HUGE in america? further, if the fda saw that they did not work, how were they approved?

    i dont mean to be rude, it just seems like a bogus fact to me

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  93. Powerful post Scrangie. I dont suffer from depression and can only imagine how awful it must be to live your life under a cloud like this so thanks for sharing. Love your blog and am green, with envy, your nails are beautiful!

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  94. Thank you for the post Scrangie. I also stuggle with depression and anxiety and didn't know there was an "awareness month". I also agree with another commentor, Bill, who stated he likens it to "skating on concrete"...that is a perfect analogy. I love your blog and your nails! :o) You were one who inspired me to start my own blog. Thanks again.
    Peace and love,Eileen

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  95. thanks for this post. I agree with Bill that likened it to ice skating on concrete. I too didn't know there was a depression awareness month, so thanks for that too. Love your blog.
    Peace and high spirits to you.
    Eileen

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  96. Awesome post, Scrangie. Thank you so much for bringing this up--most people think that ppl with depression are just grumpy and that they should snap out of it. Ha! I wish I could ...

    You rock, girl. Keep plugging away.

    *hugs*

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  97. I had no idea October was also considered Depression awareness month. Thank you for informing us polish lovers! You reach so many people through your blog and I know that this post made a difference. I'm sorry you have to deal with depression everyday...it must be awfully hard. I feel lucky not to be part of the millions who suffer from depression. Your green manicure (as always) is gorgeous!

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  98. Thank you so much for this post.

    I love your blog and admire so much your strength and attitude.

    Hugs to you.

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  99. Thank you for this post. Can you please tell me what color is on your nails?

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  100. Thank you for writing about this. I never understood depression until I had post partum depression a few years back when my daughter was born. I now have a completely new appreciation for it and know that it's serious. I now understand that it isn't something that people can willingly just snap out of. I didn't know green was their color, but I thank you for raising awareness through your blog.

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  101. Thanks for the great post. I always enjoy your blog and purty nails :)

    Big hugs to you!

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  102. I suffer from Postpartum Depression and Anxiety. I just wanted to thank you for posting all of that info. I find that if one has never dealt with any type of depression first hand, they can never know what it is REALLY like. I am going to paint my nails green tonight :)

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  103. Thank you for this post. It's comforting to know that people I admire and respect have the same problems I do. (I'm not sure if "comforting" is necessarily the right word, but I'm sure you know what I mean)

    xx

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  104. Wow... there are a lot of comments on this particular post. I also want to thank you for this. You inspired me to make a video about Depression Awareness and create a tutorial inspired by green. If you'd like to check it out here's the link: http://beautymarked16.blogspot.com/2009/10/depression-awareness-month-green-smokey.html

    I said thank you in my post too. :) The video should be uploading soon if you want to see that also.

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  105. I too suffer from depression - thank you for posting this. So many people are uneducated about this dangerous disease. It is a serious illness, like any other life threatening one. I was diagnosed over a year ago and am doing better, but have my moments. It's important to have people who understand and care around you. Cymbalta's website has excellent resources to give to those you love to help them understand.

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  106. I had no idea there was a color for us! Woo hoo, my favorite color green! I think it's very brave to admit to having depression. Most people don't understand it. They just think it's something you can get over by doing some chores or seeing a funny movie. I didn't understand it myself. My brother suffered badly from it and still does. I think my Mother had this for a long time. People were undiognosed. I didn't realize I had it until my girlfriend went to the doctor because of panic attacks. The doctor gave her some material on depression. I read it and realized I had all the symptoms. I made my appointment with the doctor and he put me on Effxor. Thank God he did. I was never sucidial just sick with pain and deep sadness. My pain didn't go away but the sadness started to leave me. It's taken a long while to get to where I am now. I still have the pain. I take pain medication but nothing very strong. I can't work anymore because of the pain so I'm at home all the time. If it wasn't for my girlfriend and these blogs I wouldn't be as happy. It's hard when your home alone and everyone else is at work. It's great to have blogs to read and comment on. Thank you for bringing this to life.

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  107. I had a mild depression for many years and was on Lexapro for about a year and a half. I have to say it helped me in many ways but I hated that I was becoming a slave to the drug. Luckily, I met someone who taught me about supplements and I took them in replacement and totally got off the Lexapro.

    But please please, I must know what color you used in the photo of this entry!!!!

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  108. That was a really amazing and intelligent post ... thank you Scrangie!

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  109. This was a great post Scrangie. I too suffer from Depression, and take an SSRI for it. I agree, most people think you can just get over it, but it's not nearly that easy.

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  110. I didn't know that . Thank you for that.

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  111. OMG can you believe how many comments....but how wonderfull that we can all smile by the sight of something simple like a good mani, keep growing stronger from those happy moments :)
    i was on diazepan for quite a while but now i have my nerves under control after seeing a reiki lady and some natural personalised Bach drops.

    again, big hug to all of you..

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  112. Wow, the response is unbelievable.

    Thank you for posting this.

    (((((hugs))))

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  113. Scrangie I am dumbstruck, you are an amazing woman. I can't even begin to tell you what your posts/blog do for me. I am one of those people who does not understand what you suffer through every day but I hope that your online community here makes a difference for you.

    You rock my world, girl! xxx

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  114. I too am a sufferer from this... really sucks :( It's so familiar to me when you mention even small simple things are difficult to deal with.
    Very informative, and kudos to you for raising some awareness ♥♥♥

    Love the mani, btw ;)

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  115. Thanks for this post. Although I'm much better now, I've suffered from depression for most of my life. In the US, there is still a great amount of misunderstanding surrounding depression, and I appreciate all attempts to raise awareness.

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  116. Thank you so much for this post. I suffer from depression and panic disorder and most people find it very hard to understand. Just knowing there are people like you spreading awareness...it makes me feel very hopeful! ^_^ And of course your manicure is gorgeous! ^_^

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  117. An issue that should not be taken lightly. I have seen depression first hand, and taking steps to knowing you are depressed and then doing something about it is key in recovery. Thanks for putting this up

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  118. God bless you, Scrangie. I had no idea that you suffer with depression. Your blog is one of my very favorites as you always make me smile with your posts and way of talking.

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  119. Fantastic post Scrangie. We all face battles in life and you should be proud that even given your challenges, you have created such a wonderful blog, site and network because of your intelligence and creativity! Long live the "green"!

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  120. Just a "small" update:

    It's being Depression Awareness Month has really grabbed my attention because this month I'm feeling worse then I have in a while (I blame the Yaz I was taking to balance out my hormones and is now getting out of my system... the Lutera was worse though). I asked my mother, who has been dealing with major depression herself for the last couple of years (they're considering hospitalization for the second time, the last being right before Xmas last year, whish never happened), if she'd heard abou tit or anyone in her group therapy.. she said no.

    So, I decided to crochet green "ribbons" to wear as pins. They came out so nice, I thought I'd post the instructions, which are really easy. It's basic single crochet, going back and forth.

    you need: #1 crochet hook
    green crochet cotton

    Row #1: Chain stitch 5 stitches.

    Row #2: Put your hook into the 2nd stitch from it and single crochet in the next three stitches (row = 3 stitches).

    Row #3-#32: Single crochet in each stitch of the row, not forgetting to make that one chain stitch for turning you row, until you've finished the "ribbon".

    Finish off by knotting and hiding the thread. Twist into the right shape and stitch together, from back to part way into the front (so as not to let your stitch show in the front) or you could use a glue that would work with the ,material. Stitch or glue on a small pin back (you can also use a safety pin).

    Finished ribbon (with 2 strands) 2"L x 1"W


    I used Luster Sheen (which is a bit thicker than size 10 crochet cotton) for 1 ribbon. For the second, I used two strands together (you can find skeins like this, which is what I used or just use to separate skeins held together).

    I wish I could post pics, but I don't have a digital camera. I might try scanning them later, so people get the basic idea. Also, I hope the instructions are clear enough, since it's the first time I've ever written a crochet pattern out.

    Thanks again Scrangie for letting us know about this important month. I'll have my pin ready to wear by Monday and will wear it for the rest of the month. Better late than never, right? ;-)

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  121. It is with tears in my eyes that I write this. Scrangie, because of your post, I feel less alone today. I'm sure you did the same for many others as well. Thank you so very kindly for summoning the courage it took to share this very personal issue with all of us. Please know you've touched many hearts by doing so.

    ♥(((Scrangie)))♥

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  122. Thank you for a very beautiful post that included not only nails, but facts. The depression I have suffered over the years was caused by PTSD and anxiety issues but nevertheless combined they throw quite a punch.

    Keep leading us on to new adventures!

    -BunnyMasseuse @ TPF

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  123. I am new to your blog and have only commented once before. I have depression, anxiety and panic disorder. Thank you so much for posting this. So many people misunderstand our condition and need to learn the facts.

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  124. I'm not sure that it's possible to 'get' it unless you've suffered from depresssion or been closely touched by it, but after nearly losing my SO to it I am learning. Thank you for this post Scrangie, and thank all of you who have stepped forward and added your voices to the chorus. Depression is a serious and potentially life threatening illness and it's time that the 'just snap out of it' school of thought was laid to rest along with archaic attitudes like 'real men don't cry' and medical dinosaurs like 'female vapours'. I wish you all the mental health and happiness that everyone should have in their life.

    And yes Scrangie, thank you for your blog which is always a bright spot of beauty in my day.

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  125. Hi! I've heard a lot about your blog and I've been reading it a lot lately, it's gorgeous and wonderful! I'm 18 and I've been suffering from depression since I've been atleast 10-12. It's not fun, and when you don't understand what you're going through it's even worse. This post made me feel inspired because it's nice to see that people do take it seriously and respect others going through this, because not many do. Thank you so much, and keep up your amazing work:) -Marie

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