I’m a 53-year old woman dealing with some chronic health problems and an impending divorce. I’ve always been prone to very mild, short bouts of depression, but my health and the divorce seem to make this current episode of depression more difficult to manage. My therapist suggests I participate in mental health-oriented group activities, workshops, etc., to help me through this difficult period. Do you have any suggestions? 

First things first- I want you to know you are certainly not alone! Current statistics indicate that 13% of the population experiences a depressive disorder in any given year—between 13-14 million people. Approximately 16% of adults will experience depression at some point in their lives. Of those reporting depression, 97% also report that their work, home life, and relationships suffered as a result. Women are twice as likely to experience depression as men. Aging and a major life challenge such as divorce would certainly compound the depression. You are to be commended for seeking out professional help. Unfortunately, only 1 out of 3 women will take that step. Our organization, the WINGS Program of Jewish Family & Children’s Service was created to serve adults living with any kind of mental illness. We also offer support to family members and offer community education on issues of mental health. I invite you to join us on Sunday, December 3^rd from 9:30am to 2:30pm for a symposium called “Women’s Mental Wellness.” Keynote speakers will be Rabbi Susan Talve and Dr. Helen Friedman. There will also be a panel of mental health professionals addressing issues of medication, self-care, family concerns and grief. A dramatic presentation and brunch will cap off the day. Please call me to RSVP or for general info on the WINGS program. I wish you good healing. 

Sara Bromberg
WINGS Program Coordinator
314-812-9366
sbromberg@jfcs-stl.org

A “self-help group” may not suit everyone, but its inclusion as one approach to overall wellness can feel “like a life-saver” for some. Two important benefits are: 1) participants no longer feel they are “going through this alone” and, 2) participants can talk with and receive feedback from persons who’ve been in similar situations. The group dynamic provides validation, emotional support, insight, and information on additional resources. Some participants report improved family relationships because they now have an outside outlet for support and understanding. Here are suggestions of groups to address your specific concerns.

·        Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) - 314-652-6100. Provides groups for persons with depression or bipolar disorder; family and significant others welcome.

·        Depression Support Group for Women – 314-503-2696. Two mental health professionals facilitate this group.

·        Emotions Anonymous – 314-638-2844. Support groups for persons coping with emotions such as depression, anger, shame guilt and low self-esteem.

·        Recovery, Inc. – 314-770-9865. Open to persons with mood, anxiety, psychotic or personality disorders; purpose is to learn practical techniques for handling everyday problems of life.

·        OWL (Voice of Mid-Life and Older Women) – 314-725-5862. This organization offers a group for women contemplating or experiencing divorce after 20 or more years of marriage.

·        Numerous groups exist to address physical health conditions. Call the Mental Health Association at 314-773-1399 for more information.  

LaDonna Haley
Program Director
Mental Health Association of Greater St. Louis

Want to see other Open Mind columns?  Click here for archive index.