Episode 68: Reaching Out, by host, Laura Milkins. Our guest, Francesca, tells the story of her depression and how rejecting the label of “depression” helps her manage her symptoms, allowing her to accept her emotional state and be honest about how she is feeling. Through yoga and her blog she helps others find their own way through depression. Sunday, October 1, 2017.
Francesca’s website: http://www.francescamichelle.com/
Francesca’s blog: https://www.frenchygold.com/
Except’s from this week’s show from Psych Central:
Reaching Out
4 Ways To Reach Out When Depressed By Graeme Cowan
https://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2013/12/12/4-ways-to-reach-out-when-depressed/
1. Talk to those around you
You don’t have to formally inform someone that you feel like you have clinical depression.
Instead, you can simply say that things have been a bit tough for you lately and that you’re struggling to cope. Ask if they can listen to you without judging for a little while, and then tell them how you feel and what you’re going through. You may be surprised how supportive, empathetic or understanding your family member or friend may be.
2. Join support groups
There is nothing like being able to talk with people who really understand what you are going through — fellow travelers — those who also live with depression or bipolar. There are specialized depression or bipolar groups, and those that support all mental health challenges.
3. Call a support line or reach out online
These provide total anonymity and support from either trained counselors or people who have been through depression and survived.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the U.S. (800-273-TALK), or the worldwide network BeFrienders (http://www.befrienders.org/need-to-talk). Tucson HOPE Warm Line, 520.770.9909
4. Read others’ stories
Reading the documented struggles of others from all walks of life when it comes to depression can help provide you with a sense of both perspective and scale. Not only are you not alone — many more people are afflicted than you may have initially thought.
