Suggestions Please

I always get a little concerned about my mental health when I think about the genetic connnections. Most of the women in my family take medication to maintain mental health (depression, anxiety, etc...) Does anyone know of any thing out there where you could find out how likely it would be that you would suffer from a mental illness depending on family history. Anyone know of any preventive things you can do or take that would keep the effects of heredity at bay?

Have you ever read the magazine "Prevention"? It often has articles on this type of subject. I believe they have a website too..
www.Prevention.com
There should be a question/answer forum where you can get answers to your problem. Good luck.
www.WebMD.com is another good site.

Candice, you mentioned prevention...

Before I post my thoughts I want you to know that I am not suggesting that women who are Christians don't get depressed. I am a Christian woman and I was depressed after being involved in a car accident that kept me from living the active life I loved.

However, I believe with all my heart that staying focused on my faith: reading the Bible, journaling, reading Christian books, attending prayer groups and classes for self improvement has made a tremendous impact on my life. I don't know where..or how..or who I would be without those activities.

My faith makes me stay focused on my blessings which leads to a more positive way of thinking and living.

I also believe exercise is extremely important too. Knowing that I am taking time to do something for myself makes me feel better.

Anyone have any other thoughts or suggestions? I think it is a great topic!

I think it is extremely important to keep your doctor and nurses informed on how you are feeling. I'm not saying call them everyday, but if you notice a change or an increase in symptoms, please notify them. They can make referrals to other doctors qualified to handle these problems. With a referral from your own family practice doctor, most of these problems can be covered by insurance. I guess the main thing to remember is there is no need to "suffer in silence". There is always someone qualified to help you with your problems.
Also I would encourage anyone with a depression problem to get out and be active, with exercise, with social events, either through your church or club activities, or just by visiting while in line at the supermarket. A little human interaction can help with a lot of problems.

Mental illness also runs in my family, though no one speaks of it. However, I was shocked when I was diagnosed with depression and bipolar disorder in my 30s! It greatly upset me. I did not believe the diagnosis and I did not wish to think anything was "wrong" with me. I had led a fairly normal life, with many friends, successes, etc. up to this point and I did not relish the idea of being "different" or "sick" in any way. But after much education, I found out I was predestined by my genes to have this disorder. The stats said I was 25-40% more likely to inherit it.

Through extension reading, group discussion, and couseling, I learned that MOST PEOPLE WITH BIPOLAR OR CLINICAL DEPRESSION SUFFER BECAUSE OF A CHEMICAL MALFUNCTION IN THE BRAIN. Too much or too little serotonin in your brain causes often tremendous depressions. Low energy, lack of hope, irritability, loss or excessive appetite, sleep disorders usually result from this chemical imbalance.

Thank goodness there are many medicines which adjust the serotonin levels and bring your back to normal health.

Of course, Dotsie and others mention prayer/faith and exercise/social interaction...these are also very beneficial towards anyone's mental health. However, after many years of very successul treatment, I would say medicine is the first and most important step. Six years ago, I would not have believed this to be true!). Then lots of prayer and exercise and outings. Use a holistic appreach -- mind, body and spirit (medicine for the mind, exercise for the body and faith for the spirit.)

Best of luck. Do not worry. Mental illness is as fixable as a bad heart or broken leg!

Laurie, thank you for sharing such great info. I truly believe you are a blessing to the women in this community simply by sharing your story.

I totally agree that medication allows people with mental illness the opportunity to live full and successful lives. Just like insulin for diabetics, and concerta, ridalin, etc. for people with ADD/ADHD, it is key for stability.

I also like countrygirl's comment about suffering in silence. It is no longer necessary in today's society.

There are other posts in this forum that I will find and share with you. I recall some great web-sites and information about a book written by a young adult who is also bipolar and leads a successful life. She wanted to share her story and did so by writing a book that is geared for young adults.

Thanks for jumoing in and I look forward to your posts! I am always happy when wise women aren't shy and jump right in!

Thanks to everyone for all of the great info and feedback. I haven't been diagnosed with anything, but I had to fill out this form for my physical before I go on Monday and I figure the doctor is going to flip when she sees the family history of mental illness, heart disease, and cancer. I think I'm a walking time bomb when it come to the heredity, all the more reason to follow some of the preventative advice I got here.

I am a clinical social worker who has a lot of mental illness in my family as well. From a professional standpoint, I can say that learning all you can about the illness is a big plus, and learning what your resources are, (personal and medical) can make a big difference. When any symptoms trickle back, it's good to know what to plug in quickly to bring you back to equilibrium.
Personally, my mother was bipolar, and unfortunately, she grew up in the "dark ages" of psychiatry, and she was not correctly diagnosed until the age of 69. (She recently died at age 80)It was a blessing to finally have the right treatment and medications for her. It was unfortunate that she had to live most of her life
with the wrong treatment, tho'.
I think alot too about what my chances are for inheriting those genes. There are alot of studies at Johns Hopkins that are looking at genetics, so maybe soon we'll know more. And there are alot of studies on meds too, so hopefully side effects will be less in the future.
There is a woman from Hopkins, Kay Redfield Jamison, who is inspiring. She is a professor there, but is bipolar, and has done incredible things with her life. She has written several books, both personal and clinical info. She makes you feel that it's possible for anyone to manage the illness.

I've just finished a book titled "An Unquiet Mind", by Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison. Dr. Jamison is a Doctor of Psychology and a professor at Hopkins and also a sufferer of "manic-depressive illness" or Bi polar disorder as it is often called. Her book is a memoir of her life and the journey toward sanity. The book is both wonderful and horrifying if you have a family member who is manic depressive. But it is an excellent resource. I highly recommend it to anyone who suspects that they are dealing with this illness either personally or with a family member.

Kath, I checked the book out on Amazon and it sounds great. Might have to check that one out at the library. Did you read 40 something's post? She also mentioned the same doctor.

I can't even imagine how hard it must have been in the past for people living with mental illness. Isn't it great that we, as a society, have come to realize that mental illness is just another "illness" and deserves as much attention, research, and understanding as diabetes and cancer.

I tell people my son had schizophrenia and instead of turning away they ask about the illness -- truly caring to know more about it -- usually because someone in their family -- or someone they know -- has been recently diagnosed with a mental illness. It's not a "closet" illness anymore and that's the first step to finding a cure

So I'm very glad this subject has had such positive response -- maybe knowing that it's okay to talk about mental illness will help those that are afraid of speaking out realize it's okay to go to your doctor, friends, family and they will get the help needed to have happy and fulfilled lives

I have read Kay Jamison also (all of her books!) and thought I would throw out another good one for consideration. Bipolar disorder is very thoughtfully explained in a readable format in Francis Mondimore's recent book "Bipolar Disorder: A Guide for Patients and Families." Dr. Jamison writes remarkably, but she also highlights many of the worse cases. Her own disorder, which she describes beautifully in one of her books, is almost frightening. (She does this to highlight the importance of diagnosis and treatment).

After some reflection, I also thought I'd also mention that more than 1% of the population is now believed to be bipolar and that acoording to S. Pratt almost 40% of all women will seek couseling for depression at some point of their lives. By the age of 40, almost one third of the women you met will either have had symptoms or sought treatment. SO, if you know someone has depressed mood, low energy, reduced interest in activities, low self-esteem, sleep or eating problems, etc. -- ENCOURAGE THEM TO GET HELP! Or if appropriate, GET THE HELP YOU NEED YOURSELF. If you don't feel strong enough to get help (which is common)-- Lean on your family or friends to help you get to the doctors.

Once you pull out of the depression or anxiety clouds and see the sun again, you wonder how they ever engulfed you. Our crazy female hormones take us places we often shouldn't go to. Men suffer depression too, but far less.

Anyone who needs counseling or help, I am able to give encouragement, web sites, places for help and of course PRAYERS.

Be healthy, mind, body and spirit! Lauri

All the above is true. Treatment is the key. Talking therapy can be an important piece of the picture too. After the meds do their job, sometimes it's helpful to find a professional with whom you can discuss issues, ventilate, emote, and learn some wonderful things about yourself! It's work, but it has so many rewards if you invest in the process. I have sought therapy at several points in my life, and it was the best thing I ever did for myself! Insurance usually covers a portion, but if funds are an issue, there is a program in Baltimore called the Pro Bono Counseling Project. I am sure that many other locations would have similar programs. Find a therapist that you feel a good chemistry with, wherever you go.

Reading all of your posts gives me great hope. Even 20 years ago, you wouldn't find enough women brave enough to share their experiences. I applaud all of you!!!

I have GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) It too is a chemical imbalance and I am being treated with Lexapor. As a matter of fact, I went to the dr today and he increased my meds from 10 mg a day to 20 mg a day because the episodes are coming too close together again. (2 or 3 a week now instead of 2 or 3 a month)

I take Ativan to control major episodes like full blown panic attacks.

GAD can nearly paralyze me at times. I know I have so much to do, but I can't seem to stop worrying about it all to focus on one thing and get it done. So, nothing gets done. I'll look at the clock and realize that 3 or 4 hours had gone by and all I did was sit in one spot and think about everything that needed to get done. It can be frightening to "wake up" from that kind of episode.

It also makes me hesitant to leave the house. I only go out when I absolutely have to.. and I never go out when I'm already having an episode. I can't drive or function during those times. I need my husband to drive.

Your insight gives me hope. It's so wonderful to know I'm not alone.

Peace & Hugs

Vicki, thanks for sharing. I personally know several women who suffer from the same thing. I am looking for a story for my book about this because I know it is something that women will be able to relate to.

I have written Denise Koch (a popular local newscaster) becasue I recall the Sun newspaper doing an article on her panic attacks and how she had to overcome them due to being on the news night in and night out! Quite an accomplishment, and something I continue to wonder is if that is all behind her, or if she has little episodes here and there.

Unfortunately, I haven't heard back from her so I am still looking for an honest story written from the heart from someone who is willing to share exactly what goes on and how to work through it.

Just offered a prayer that you are comfortable with where you are in the process right now.

Thanks for the prayer, Dotsie. I'd be glad to prepare something for your book, just point me in the right direction.

I notice that as I get older, teh eipisodes become more frequent, or else I just can't tolerate them as well as I was able to when I was younger.

As a child I was an extreme introvert, and most people considered me very shy. I suppose I was on the surface.

My husband thinks I'm borderline agoraphobic. I find there are times when I just can't leave the house, no matter what. He is very supportive and can recognize my GAD symptoms sometimes even before I can. He helps me through the episodes. He looks for things that will distract me and stop me from focusing on the panic. One thing he does is have me read to him. It's a great way to transfer my focus. It works. I don't know what I'd do without him.

Hugs to all,

Vicki, You are so brave to share. FYI: I would never have guessed such an accomplished writer with so many hobbies to be an introvert. You sure don't seem shy in the forums!

I am grateful you have such a supportive hubby. I love hearing how spouses encourage and help one another. That's what it's all about!

I will be in touch by e-mail at some point about the story.

Most of my hobbies are to keep me busy. It's also a form of self-therapy to "make" myself have to go outside the house.

Of course, most of my hobbies also keep me busy in the house too. I write, I'm a healer, I have an aromatherapy business, I also have my "window peeps" that I create, and now I'm doing beaded bracelets as well. All of these things I can do from my home.

My reiki table is set up in the great room and I prefer to have clients come to the house. However, I have gone to a client's home to perform a reiki session.

My husband encourages my various creative outlets. We've been extremely blessed that I don't have to "work" outside the home. My husband makes enough to support the both of us. He prefers that I stay home. But, he's not chauvenistic about it. He knows that my health requires a lot of downtime and it's better that I don't have a job outside the house to increase the stress.

Between the 2 of us, we have 4 businesses, not counting my husband's regular 8-5 job. :-)

I'm not sure if I'm much different than other introverts. But, if I could find someone to do all my marketing and sales work, I'd be the happiest person on earth Then, all I'd have to do is create. But, we live in the real world, (not the one on TV) and we have to create, market, sell, account, and everything in between.

Peace & Hugs.