Understanding Depression: Personal Stories and National Impact

Depression is a pervasive issue that touches countless lives across Ireland. A recent survey conducted in 2024 revealed that one in four Irish adults will experience a mental health disorder during their lifetime. This staggering statistic highlights the urgent need for open discussions about mental health and the personal experiences that often accompany it.

The Personal Toll of Depression

The emotional turbulence of mental health can be likened to a well-known nursery rhyme: “There was a little girl who had a little curl, right in the middle of her forehead. When she was good, she was very, very good. But when she was bad, she was horrid.” This captures the unpredictable nature of mental health, where good days can quickly turn into challenging ones.

Individuals like Gwen Loughman illustrate the intimate struggles many face. Loughman recounts her experiences with depression, describing moments when a sense of doom envelops her, making daily functioning feel nearly impossible. She notes that the “black dog” of depression, as famously personified by others like musician Niall ‘Bressie’ Breslin, can be an unwelcome companion in life.

Throughout her life, Loughman experienced episodes of what she termed “melancholic moments.” Her struggles intensified during winter months, and she later dealt with post-natal depression during her pregnancies. After years of feeling unwell, a visit to her general practitioner (GP) led to an unexpected diagnosis of depression and a prescription for antidepressants.

Seeking Help and Finding Solutions

Loughman emphasizes the importance of seeking help, stating that her GP and the supportive pharmacist who checked in on her made a significant difference in her journey. She acknowledges the fear many individuals face when seeking help, fearing they may not be taken seriously. These feelings can be compounded by symptoms such as irritability and anger, which are not always recognized as indicators of mental health struggles.

“When you are deep in the trenches of a mental health episode, it is less than helpful to be tasked with explanations or evidence of proof,” Loughman said.

After starting medication, Loughman noticed a significant improvement in her mental health. She describes the relief of regaining joy in life, attributing this positive shift to the adjustment in her treatment. Yet, she encountered a setback a year later, demonstrating that mental health is often not a linear journey.

In recent years, Loughman has found stability and even joy in her post-menopausal condition. However, she made the decision to wean herself off medication, believing she could maintain her mental health through lifestyle changes. Research indicates that exposure to natural sunlight and engaging in regular physical activity can significantly alleviate symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Yet, after stopping her medication, Loughman experienced a decline in her mental state, leading her to seek help from her GP once more.

Loughman’s story illustrates a critical point: mental health is complex and requires ongoing attention and care. She highlights the importance of being open about struggles and seeking support, reinforcing that everyone has mental health and faces their own battles.

For those affected by mental health issues, numerous organizations offer support. These include the Samaritans, which can be reached at 116 123, and Aware, available at 1800 80 48 48. For youth, Teen-Line Ireland provides a helpline at 1800 833 634, while Childline serves those under 18 at 1800 66 66 66.

As Loughman poignantly states, “There isn’t a family in the land who hasn’t been affected in some way by depression. Everyone deals with their demons and struggles differently.” By fostering open conversations about mental health, society can take significant strides toward understanding and supporting those in need.