What does it feel like to experience this disorder? In the chapter titled “Stress and Depression” from the book “Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers”, Dr. Robert Sapolsky warns that besides being life-threatening, depression can “destroy lives, demolish the families of sufferers.” He goes on to spell out that someone in chronic depression displays the inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia), feels a great sense of guilt and grief, and typically moves and speaks slowly.
You are not alone
Chronic depression is expected to be the largest contributor to disease burden by 2030. This is the prediction in “Depression: A Global Crisis”, a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) published in 2012. If you (or someone you know) have experienced chronic depression, you will appreciate this early warning by WHO.
I’m fortunate to have supported clients diagnosed with depression. The common trait is their determination to pull out of the dark corners they were in. They have sought or are actively seeking medical help. Most of them described their recovery journey as a massive self-motivation exercise. And this is where mindfulness support comes in.
Recovering from depression with mindfulness
First introduced in the UK as Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), the mindfulness technique helps depressive sufferers recognise the well-worn patterns of thoughts and beliefs. They start to notice thoughts as thoughts, rather than interpreting them as reality. A sad thought is just envisioned as a lone bird flying across the blue sky. It comes and it goes. The awareness returns cognitive control back to the person. Practised again and again, we start to see choices around us. The walls of the dark corner we were in are not solid and can be pushed through.
Next steps: Seek out a mindfulness teacher if you wish to get started. Experience first-hand by attending a public class, arrange for a private session, or plan for a corporate workshop.
Medical disclaimer: Mindfulness is the practice of purposely paying attention to our thoughts, emotions and bodily sensations. It is not a substitute for medical treatment. Please seek medical attention first.
