Video from Pastor Gives Mental Illness a Place Within a Life of Faith
(Oconomowoc, Wis.) October 10, 2013 is National Depression Screening Day®, and this year Sue McKenzie and Suzette Urbashich, co-directors of Rogers InHealth, hope to encourage those of faith who might not otherwise seek relief to watch a video on the subject of depression… and take an anonymous screening.
“For many who live a life of faith, coming to grips with the realization of clinical depression can be difficult,” McKenzie said. “Many believe their faith should somehow shield them from the feelings associated with a depressive episode and that they are ‘less spiritual’ if they seek the help they need. That’s one reason we want people to watch Pastor Tim’s video. His story is about living with clinical depression and how it plays out in a life of faith.”
About Clinical Depression
Although “I’m depressed” is a statement many throw around on any given day, clinical depression is a mood disorder in which the feelings of sadness, loss, anger or frustration interfere with everyday life and persist for longer than two weeks at a time. In addition to persistent feelings of sadness or “emptiness,” symptoms may include sleeping too much or too little, differences in appetite and weight, loss of pleasure or interest in activities once enjoyed and more.
“The good news is that depression, like all mental illness, is treatable with the right combination of supports,” McKenzie continued. “As Pastor Tim demonstrates from his own life experience, receiving support during mental health challenges from the very people with whom you share your faith journey can be a pivotal piece in one’s recovery. Rogers InHealth offers guidance to congregations seeking to reduce stigma and be a safe place for people to find recovery support for depression and other mental health challenges.”
