This Mormon Channel episode shares the personal story of Amy Staley – a Mormon woman who has struggled with depression through most of her life, although she wasn’t officially diagnosed with depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) until after her fourth child was born. Amy’s brother also struggled, and, sadly, took his own life in 2005. Two of Amy’s children also struggle with depression, as do other of Amy’s family members. (The genetic component of depression is well-known.)
Hear Amy talks openly about her experience with anxiety and depression.
Also, we have had various posts her at Mormon Women about depression. See some of the following stories below:
Battling Clinical Depression, “Finding the Light from Within” by Ariane
Mormon Woman Writes about Struggle with Depression in Poem: “Descending” by Marsha
Vulnerabilities give us courage and strength: Reflections on #byuwc by Lauren
Forward with Faith: Finding Strength in the Lord by Ariane
Poetry: Dormant — a poem about facing depression by Clancy
Birthing Hope – an essay written by a woman who calls herself a thriver of bipolar depression
My Heart is Full: A Peace and Empowerment from Priesthood Blessings
Forward with Faith: “I’m grateful for my depression” by Cheryl
Mormons and Depression / Mental Illness / Anti-depressant Use
I did not seek help for my depression until I realized that I was suicidal. I had to try several different things until I found what would work for me (running).
That experience helped me when I was bishop. In particular I remember one sister coming in for a temple recommend interview. She felt she was not worthy. As we discussed the matter, I realized that she was depressed. I counseled her to receive treatment.
“I think you may be suffering from depression. I recommend that you get professional help. Talk to your physician about it.”
“How do you know about depression?” the sister asked.
“Well, I’ve suffered from it in the past and I’ve even got it now.”