Situational depression: Correct diagnosis, finding right treatment are key

Depression is reaching epidemic proportions. Photo provided by Tina Cole-Mullins

Article and photo by Tina Cole-Mullins

Depression is one of the most common and shared mental health conditions. In fact, it is reaching epidemic proportions as nearly 10 percent of Americans experience a form a depression, according to a report in the U.S. News & World Report.
Since World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10, this year I would like to bring more awareness about depression, and specifically that of situational depression.

Depression comes in various forms, with the primary types being situational, clinical or chemical. Some experience one or even overlapping forms of the condition.

In some cases, situational depression is created by a trauma or specific stressors and life-altering events such as illness, relationship issues, divorce, loss of job, financial stress, family interpersonal dynamics, death or grief (even ambiguous grief, loss of someone still alive).
Clinical or chemical depression has a biological and psychological source that alters the brain. Postpartum depression, clinical depressive disorder, seasonal depression or bipolar disorder are a few examples.

Treatment styles vary by the type and severity of the condition. I have firsthand experience with both types of depression. For me, recognizing the difference between the two has helped create the most effective plan of treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a talk-based therapy, was part of the treatment plan when I was in my late 20s and now is part of my ongoing plan.

Depression can compromise judgement; it’s best not to try and tackle mental health problems alone. Photo credit Pexels photos

CBT is a common treatment for clinical and situational depression, both of which can be prompted by triggers. By acknowledging and addressing a situation, one can learn to manage better and cope through depression if they apply skills learned from treatment. I have learned firsthand that CBT works as an effective approach to stability within my mental wellness journey.

By using a personal individualized treatment plan, my clinical depression (bipolar disorder) has been deemed in remission for several years. I am struggling currently with situational depression as my primary focus in my treatment. I use individualized therapy and a special dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) class to help manage day-to-day stress and my triggers. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ambiguous grief and family interpersonal dynamics impact day-to-day stressors and primary health concerns.

DBT helps teach core skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal communication skills on an ongoing basis, and it is covered through insurance.

One skill referenced within DBT is radical acceptance, where one has to radically accept the situation as it is and that it can’t be changed. But that does not mean you have to agree, or that the situation is right, it is simply out of your control.

In my mindfulness approach with DBT, one of my various coping skills is music. The band Godsmack has always been a go-to when seeking peace and serenity within my often stressful life. In April 2019, Sully Erna of the band, after losing several friends to suicide, created The Scars Foundation in support of mental health.

As an attempt survivor, I know that it’s crucial to overcome the stigma of physical scars. But I wear my scars openly in hope others will learn and heal from my experience and reach out for support.

“Scars come in all forms. They are both physical and emotional. They’re traumatizing and make us fear what people may think of us,” Erna said. “We are ALL imperfect in some way, that’s what makes us perfect and unique!”

“EVERYONE has something that makes them insecure or embarrassed. Instead of hiding or internalizing them, own them and show them off to the world!” he said. “Let them empower you so you can be a voice for everyone who can’t be…No matter what your scars are — abuse, mental illness, disabilities, bullying, addiction — none of them are defects, but a part of your unique story.”

Recently, I spoke with a local woman who I will call Joy. She shared her experiences with mental health and depression. Joy said she was diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD).

“It is fairly common in people who have suffered prolonged exposure to trauma,” she said. “Depression, anxiety, and even disassociation are common symptoms of the condition. It is a combination of nature and nurture. I am genetically predisposed towards mental health issues, but my environment is what directly caused C-PTSD specifically.”

She has been in and out of therapy for 20 years. She currently is speaking with a psychologist, psychiatrist, and pursuing EMDR therapy.
“In my experience, seeking help is a good option, but you must also find the correct therapy and people to help you,” Joy said.
One key is getting a good diagnosis, and sometimes it can take years, she added.

“I was diagnosed with a half a dozen disorders until finally being diagnosed with C-PTSD about three years ago. Many disorders can look like others,” Joy said. “It can take weeks or months for professionals to figure out exactly what is going on. My advice is to stick with the process.”
Now, Joy says, at her best, she is functioning exceptionally well. But at her worst, she appears to have borderline personality disorder or dissociative identity disorder. Joy says sometimes her anxiety is so great that she disassociates, and it is confusing, terrifying and overwhelming.

She advises others not to try and tackle mental health problems on their own. “When we are feeling low, down, unlike ourselves, it’s important to remember our judgment is compromised,” Joy said.

Resources:
• The Scars Foundation: www.scarsfoundation.org/resources
• DBT Self Help https://dbtselfhelp.com/
If you or a loved one is in crisis:
• The National Suicide Prevention organization offers a 24/7 hour crisis line; call 1-800-273-8255. An online chat can be found at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
• U-M’s Psychiatric Emergency Services, call 734- 615-1441, or email [email protected].
• The Listening Ear in Lansing offers a 24-hour crisis line; call 517-337-1717, or email www.theear.org, or reach the Crisis text Line by texting “Start” to 741-741.

Author’s Note: Follow me and my journey at Putting the “ME” into Mental Wellness with Tina Cole-Mullins of Facebook.