Depression is a cruel punishment, slowly eroding the self without any visible symptoms. Clinical psychologist Martha Manning describes it as a solitary experience, like being in a room in hell with only your name on the door.
When visiting people in hospitals, I often hear stories of depression from individuals of all backgrounds. They often feel sad, lonely, rejected, and may have suicidal thoughts. While I’m not a professional counselor, being present and listening to their struggles can be the best form of support. My therapist, Dick Rosenleaf, always reminded me that “God does not make junk.”
Bullying is prevalent in various environments like schools, sports, and social media. Recognizing this can help in providing a nonjudgmental presence when listening to those who have been abused and traumatized. Kindness and promoting the common good are essential in supporting individuals with depression, as studies show it is a highly treatable psychiatric disorder in young people.
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Attending a workshop on suicide prevention, I learned about the QPR Gatekeeper program, emphasizing the importance of questioning, persuading, and referring individuals with self-harm impulses. Through my experiences as a teacher, coach, and chaplain, I’ve seen the value of active listening, asking effective questions, and providing referrals.
Matt Kuntz, in his book “Looking for Answers Through Dirty Glasses,” recounts a story of a woman seeking forgiveness. Forgiveness, though difficult, is a necessary step in the path towards reconciliation. Loving our enemies and praying for those who hurt us is a challenging but essential practice.
Kuntz, as the executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Montana, advocates for individuals struggling with serious mental illness. He openly shares his own struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts.
In an annual column on suicide, Catholic writer Father Ron Rolheiser describes suicide as a disease, akin to cancer or a heart attack. He emphasizes God’s all-encompassing love and understanding, assuring that those lost to suicide find peace and compassion in God’s embrace.
Even in the face of tragedies like suicide, our limited human comprehension and love can offer comfort. Knowing that God’s love surpasses our own, we can trust that the departed find solace and understanding in His presence beyond our understanding.
John Uggetti serves as spiritual care director at St. James Healthcare and is a deacon at St. Ann Parish.
