115: Understanding and Navigating Depression

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Today, I want to explore a topic with you all that, while it has always been important to discuss, has become increasingly so during the pandemic, and that's the topic of depression. The one positive thing that has come out of COVID is that it has become a little bit more normal to talk about mental health, and as many of you know, my background is in this area. With the staggering mental health statistics over these past two years in our country, there's no better time than now to take a deep dive into just what depression is and what steps we can all take to recognize and address it.</span> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I begin today's discussion by defining depression and listing some shocking mental health findings in America pre- and post-2019. I touch on the concerning numbers of people without privilege and access to mental health treatment due to poverty or even stigma, and highlight the fact that the increasing percentage of adults with mental illness who report unmet need for treatment has increased every year since 2011. The factors that play a role in depression, the differences between depression from sadness, and some ways to get help and treatment when depressed are also reviewed. Lastly, I talk about ways to reduce symptoms of depression, including regular exercise, quality sleep, and eating a healthy diet. I cannot stress enough that his is an extremely important conversation to have, and I sincerely hope that, as you listen in today, should you find that you are experiencing symptoms of depression, you take the time to care of yourself and find the help you need.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As always, if there is ever a topic you would like me to discuss, a guest you'd like me to interview on the podcast, or feedback you wish to offer, please feel free to contact me at</span> <a href= "mailto:pr@kellytravis.net"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">pr@kellytravis.net</span></a> <span style= "font-weight: 400;">- I would love to hear from you!</s