Reader comments
Utah leads the nation in rates of depression
257 comments | Read story
Anonymous | 12:44 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Well that's a depressing article!!
Guy Smiley | 12:45 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Those four factors are nonsense. Have you ever been to northern Utah in January?
It's like one very very long gray month. Christmas has just ended. School
is back in session (with very few breaks during the winter semesters). There are
no leaves, no sun, no happiness. It's all just very depressing; like a
stagant muddy pond that appears to be frozen over. But then you step on it and
your whole leg falls in and you get hypothermia to the bone. Your boot gets
stuck in the mud and you have to walk home in frozen jeans and one bare foot
that gets all cut up on the asphalt road.
That's why I moved to southern California! It was 75 degrees today.
That's why I moved to southern California! It was 75 degrees today.
Curtis Blanco | 1:40 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
How can this be since the majority of the people of Utah claim to live what is
the "way of happiness". Obviously living a creed which sets up
unreasonably high standards in areas where it out not get involved, isn't
the way of happiness after all.
Comments continue below
Social Worker | 2:06 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Ok, now here's where everybody throws in their 2 cents about how the LDS
church is responsible for all of this.
Let me guess; Members of the church, especially women, are depressed because of the demands that LDS life places on them, and non-LDS are depressed becaue they are ostracized from Utah society.
There, I've already thrown it out there, so if anybody felt the need to say it they don't need to worry now.
Maybe we can start looking at the methodologically sound approaches to pinpointing the causes of depression.
Let me guess; Members of the church, especially women, are depressed because of the demands that LDS life places on them, and non-LDS are depressed becaue they are ostracized from Utah society.
There, I've already thrown it out there, so if anybody felt the need to say it they don't need to worry now.
Maybe we can start looking at the methodologically sound approaches to pinpointing the causes of depression.
Social Worker | 2:14 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Guy Smiley, I' hear what you're saying, but check out the report from
the link provided in the article. The whole point they want to make is that
better policies at a state level regarding access to treatment will improve
depression rates. It may well be that prolonged nasty weather contributes to
depression, and in fact, some research shows this, but that isn't the point
of the study in question. This study is all about health insurance, public
health/mental health policies, and access to treatment.
state of depression | 2:16 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
[Have you ever been to northern Utah?] GS,
Have you ever been to Seattle Washington? In 1968,
I came home for a 2 months leave from Vietnam. After 45 days of continual rain I told my dad I had to go back or I was going to hurt myself-talk about your Grey skies.... Then I went back, and it rained for another 4 months....
Can you say ZOMBIE?...... That is what I looked and felt like... I do believe that rain, weather, can cause depression.. I also know that our LDS religion can cause problems for some people. I sometimes feel that I am not living up to my full potential.... But then I get on my knees and thank the Lord for saving my life so many times, and get over/on with it...
Have you ever been to Seattle Washington? In 1968,
I came home for a 2 months leave from Vietnam. After 45 days of continual rain I told my dad I had to go back or I was going to hurt myself-talk about your Grey skies.... Then I went back, and it rained for another 4 months....
Can you say ZOMBIE?...... That is what I looked and felt like... I do believe that rain, weather, can cause depression.. I also know that our LDS religion can cause problems for some people. I sometimes feel that I am not living up to my full potential.... But then I get on my knees and thank the Lord for saving my life so many times, and get over/on with it...
Keith R. Wood | 2:53 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
The numbers are skewed, and can't be trusted.
In general American culture, most of the depressed self-medicate with alcohol or other drugs. Here in Utah, most of us don't use booze, so if we need anything, we get a prescription instead of getting drunk.
But that doesn't matter -- they whole "study" was just done to prove that the people who did it need more Federal money.
In general American culture, most of the depressed self-medicate with alcohol or other drugs. Here in Utah, most of us don't use booze, so if we need anything, we get a prescription instead of getting drunk.
But that doesn't matter -- they whole "study" was just done to prove that the people who did it need more Federal money.
phd | 4:06 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
The article says that one problem might be that Utah has inadequate medical health services, yet Utah has the highest rate of antidepressant uses. Where are these people getting these mind altering drugs from if it isn't from medical health services?
As for weather being a factor, I doubt it since one of the bleakest of states South Dakota is the least depressed. It appears to have more to do with the depression gene and lack of education.
Anonymous | 4:07 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
"Research was underwritten by a grant from Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, one of
the largest drug manufacturing companies in the world." And surprisingly,
the "research" showed that we need more mental health coverage!
Duff | 4:33 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Guy,
I'm sure the depression rate in Utah has nothing to do with the weather. I rather suspect it has much more to do with the relentless, "eternal" religious pressures. There is no way out for a young mother with five or six children and communal expectations staring her down day after day after day. It even makes me depressed to think about it.
I'm sure the depression rate in Utah has nothing to do with the weather. I rather suspect it has much more to do with the relentless, "eternal" religious pressures. There is no way out for a young mother with five or six children and communal expectations staring her down day after day after day. It even makes me depressed to think about it.
Jim Platt | 4:43 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Suppression = Depression
Anonymous | 5:05 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
It makes me wonder why. Are we really so isolated or so busy making everything
look like we are perfect that we forget the most imortant thing in life is our
relationshiops.
Lets truly give thanks for our blessings and spend time listening to our children. That may help this state.
Lets truly give thanks for our blessings and spend time listening to our children. That may help this state.
Nonsense | 5:20 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I deal with depression on a daily basis, triggered by prescription meds five
years ago.
But Wyeth can fund all the 'studies' they want, I'm not looking to more pills for my 'care'.
Guy Smiley's funny description of January in Utah is one of the ways I get through depression -- humor, friends, keeping busy.
But Wyeth can fund all the 'studies' they want, I'm not looking to more pills for my 'care'.
Guy Smiley's funny description of January in Utah is one of the ways I get through depression -- humor, friends, keeping busy.
waiting | 5:37 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I'm surprised someone hasn't blamed Mormons for this yet.
USC | 5:42 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
It's the inversion. Driving from Salt Lake City to Alta on an inversion day
is like waking up from a bad dream. I'm sure I'd be popping
anti-depressants if I had to live in that smog bowl. Also, early Mormons and
non-Mormons had a glass of wine to unwind. Today's Mormons cope by popping
pills. Guess it's better than going postal.
r | 5:44 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Look at the suicide rate in Alaska. Twice that of Utah and near the bottom.
It looks like for depression the northwest and inter mountain areas of the US are more depressed.
I wonder why there are such major discrepancies.
It looks like for depression the northwest and inter mountain areas of the US are more depressed.
I wonder why there are such major discrepancies.
MikeW | 5:45 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Okay, I'll say it. You have to suspect a link between the high rate of
depression in Utah and its higher than average percentage of LDS residents.
I'm only speculating, of course.
Question... | 5:54 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Ever spent a winter in Detroit?? That's depressing...
RE Guy Smiley | 6:15 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I agree with what you are saying, but have you ever wisped down a mountain in 3
feet of powder? Have you ever taken the family up to Park City? Have you ever
hit to most excellent groomed trails at Deer Valley? My friend Utah is awesome
in January.
Ain't The Way | 6:22 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Psychologists will tell you that when a person thinks they believe in something
that deep down they know is a lie, that is a form of schizophrenia.
I feel for the dominant culture in Utah.
"When you believe in things that you don't understand (or believe) then you suffer -
Superstition ain't The Way. - Stevie Wonder
I feel for the dominant culture in Utah.
"When you believe in things that you don't understand (or believe) then you suffer -
Superstition ain't The Way. - Stevie Wonder
RE: Guy Smiley | 6:32 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Two words: Global Warming. That's why I'm doing all I can to speed
up global warming. I live in northern Utah and can't wait to have palm
trees in my yard!!!
AK2UT | 6:36 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
GUY SMILEY - As someone who recently moved my family from the state with the
highest rate of suicide, Alaska, to the state with the highest rate of
depression, Utah, I can assure you this states problem is not its climate.
Access to health care might well be the major factor here. Wages are much lower in this state, and benefits can be too, so people may not be as inclined to spend the money to get help when it is needed.
I wonder though, if our culture contributes a bit as well. For some things to bother you, you have to have a conscience. If you don't think some things are wrong, then doing them isn't going to bum you out, is it?
At any rate, depression is serious; I hope leaders take it that way and take action to turn it around.
Access to health care might well be the major factor here. Wages are much lower in this state, and benefits can be too, so people may not be as inclined to spend the money to get help when it is needed.
I wonder though, if our culture contributes a bit as well. For some things to bother you, you have to have a conscience. If you don't think some things are wrong, then doing them isn't going to bum you out, is it?
At any rate, depression is serious; I hope leaders take it that way and take action to turn it around.
Anonymous | 6:48 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Zion's a lovely place, isn't it? If I hear another statement that
Mormons are the happiest people b/c they have the gosepel I'm going to
puke. I suggest two possible causes for the depression rate in Utah:
1. High cost of living and low, low wages.
2. Unreal expectations put on Mormons by their church.
Will govt and religious leaders address these problems? Please?
1. High cost of living and low, low wages.
2. Unreal expectations put on Mormons by their church.
Will govt and religious leaders address these problems? Please?
a_little_taller | 6:55 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Hmmm.. maybe the study was done after the BYU-Utah game last weekend in Salt
Lake County! :)
To Anonymous | 7:08 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Your comment made me smile:)
Reality | 7:08 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Give me a break- this ahas nothing to do with healthcare. Utah is
overly-populated with healthcare. All practical people know why this is the
case. There are too many people disappointed that they don't turn out to
be the wealthy princess or physician their parents told the they would be.
Reality from the closed world sends many Utahans in a downward spiral when they
are surviving on $40k a year with 5 kids and no free time between church and
kid's activities. No time to relax. Weather is not as big of a factor.
If that were the case, people in AZ would be among the happiest the world.
Social factors are the highest. ALso, male teenage suicide rates are highest in
UT. Why do you think that is?
Joe | 7:10 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
1. Lack of access to mental health services
2. State's % of residents who say they can afford health care
3. Prevalence of serious depression
4. Suicide rate
This study was published to "highlight the country's major need for mental heath resources."
Utah apparently leads the nation in not having insurance to cover mental health related issues. Not sure how this translates to the conclusion that Utah leads the nation in rates of depression as the headline states. The statement may or may not be true, but is not supported by the this report.
2. State's % of residents who say they can afford health care
3. Prevalence of serious depression
4. Suicide rate
This study was published to "highlight the country's major need for mental heath resources."
Utah apparently leads the nation in not having insurance to cover mental health related issues. Not sure how this translates to the conclusion that Utah leads the nation in rates of depression as the headline states. The statement may or may not be true, but is not supported by the this report.
Curtis Blanco | 7:18 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Since a good portion of Utah'ns live what they consider to be the "Way
of Happiness", the question arises, why is Utah the highest when it comes
to depression?
Dave | 7:22 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
So a special interest group pays for a study that says they should receive more
funding. What a supprize.
Experienced | 7:25 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
No one on Utah wants to admit it but the LDS influence and the high expectations
its members are burdened with has to be a big factor in this. I have personal
experience gained in 50 years of living in and around this influence and can
attest that what I say is true.
Herr Altekrieger | 7:33 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Add the fact that many early LDS church converts who immigrated to Utah were
from northern European and Scandanavian countries. Depression rates are higher
in these regions than in other regions of Europe.
Anonymous | 7:34 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
There is a problem with depression here in Utah. In my old neighborhood, 15 of
the women within close proximity were on anti-depressants. One spent a couple
of years in bed, two committed suicide.
I remain skeptical about anti-depressants as a solution, though, because these women were taking them, and they didn't ultimately solve the problem. While this medication helps some, does it give a message that a pill will solve everything?
I'm curious about the studies and how they were conducted. What was the criteria, who was questioned, what was included. How can Utah rank 51st when there are only 50 states?
I remain skeptical about anti-depressants as a solution, though, because these women were taking them, and they didn't ultimately solve the problem. While this medication helps some, does it give a message that a pill will solve everything?
I'm curious about the studies and how they were conducted. What was the criteria, who was questioned, what was included. How can Utah rank 51st when there are only 50 states?
WhoMe | 7:44 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
GEE, I never get depressed as long as I'm living the way my family,
friends, neighbors, and fellow church members think I ought to live. It's
much more important that I live and believe in their standards than follow my
heart and feel the peace and joy in doing so!
Thinker | 7:45 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
It seems I have also read that Utah is close to the top in divorce, bankruptcy
also. Doesn't depression come from a feeling of hopelessness, Never
measuring up, not being good enough. Maybe it is because of focusing on all the
things we are not doing well, rather than the good in each one of us. Sometimes,
it seems we have so many rules and standards or unrealistic expectations, it
would be impossible to feel good about ones self. Maybe we should re-think our
thinking.
Really... | 7:53 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I'm surprised that the article does not take into account that Utah also
has the lowest rate of self medication through alcohol. The only difference
between Utah and the rest of America is the number who take PRESCRIBED
medication.
No surprise here | 7:58 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
No surprise here. The expectations in our LDS dominated culture to marry early
and swallow the tremendous financial and emotional burdens that imposes are part
of the problem. Young men returning from missions are "expected" to be
married within 2 years max and the young women are expected to start their
families while trying to put their husbands through school. Nearly impossible
expectations that are getting harder with the cost of living costs sky
rocketing. Also, these insane interest only home loans and other varible rate
loans have trapped many a young Utah family over the past decade. No one wants
to wait to have a nice home and the banks are more than willing to help. So, the
end result of all this is DEPRESSION.
JAMES STOWE | 8:03 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I AM NOT SURPRISED THEY ARE NOT ALLOWED TO HAVE ANY REAL FUN.
Anonymous | 8:13 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Did anyone notice that the depressed states are republican states and
emotionally healthy states are all blue states? Infact, the most republican
state of all is the most depressed. I find this ironic.
R McCune | 8:22 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
This article is a perfect example why I quit taking the Deseret News years ago.
Why any reporter would find the article of such value that it would be printed
again is beyond me. Why any PHD and or associates would put his or her name on
this article, that is based on four flawed factors, is amazing. I wonder if the
news people even understand the premises behind the article. Is this good
journalism?
No Longer Depressed | 8:26 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
As a former resident I believe this article is a fair assessment of the
situation. I know that I am no longer depressed since I moved from Utah.
How's that inversion coming along?
Theo Schlbotnick | 8:27 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I find it depressing that this article and the "kidnapped bride"
article were number one and two!
So many people in Utah are "depressed", why? Perhaps, it's because they take drugs to deal with "problems" instead of realizing that "problems" come to all families, relationships, employment, etc.
Why are so many people "feeling" they have to be perfect? We aren't "perfect" and are never going to be as long aas we don't realize we are human after all. Now, who would like some more Prozac?(my doctor prescribed the drugs for me, so it's not like I'm abusing them, right?) Gotta love rationalization!
So many people in Utah are "depressed", why? Perhaps, it's because they take drugs to deal with "problems" instead of realizing that "problems" come to all families, relationships, employment, etc.
Why are so many people "feeling" they have to be perfect? We aren't "perfect" and are never going to be as long aas we don't realize we are human after all. Now, who would like some more Prozac?(my doctor prescribed the drugs for me, so it's not like I'm abusing them, right?) Gotta love rationalization!
willie | 8:32 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
There is a local leading organization that prohibits it's members from any
sort of wild and crazy behavior. Could it be that they put so much pressure on
their members that they just can't live up to the expectations imposed by
this local organization? 4 of those top 10 states have a high population that
are members of this local organization. hmmm coincidence? I don't think so.
The floggins will continue until moral (or morality) improves.
usu depression | 8:32 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
IF YOU WITNESSED ANY OF THE FOOTBALL GAMES IN 07' AT USU THAT COULD BE A
MAJOR FACTOR FOR DEPRESSION
Re: Guy Smiley | 8:38 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Yeah, It's almost impossible to get depressed in Southern California.
You're too busy fighting traffic to have time to get depressed.
Grimalkin | 8:38 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
All of this depression in Utah data is basically flawed, I believe. Because of
religious or personal beliefs many Utahns commonly go to doctors for legitimate
drug therapies. People outside Utah more often use (and abuse) their coffee,
alcoholic drinks, tea, and sometimes things like marijuana and cocaine. They
don't need doctors or their pills. The reason these types of statistics
keep resurfacing is because so many Utahns are not self medicating like so much
of the rest of the nation does!
anonymous | 8:38 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I grew up in Utah and was very depressed. I moved away, and got some real help
in the 12 step programs, and quit comparing myself to others, and really
developed a connection with God, and learned to not carry the world on my
shoulders, and to do His Will, and not try and be perfect all the time. Yes, I
am LDS and am faithful. But I also love Al-Anon, S-Anon(for co-addicts to
sexaholics) and Overeaters Anonymous. Sexual addiction is very prevalent in
Utah. The Church is great, but the 12 steps are a great adjunct to the church.
I almost died also, because I thought I had to carry everyone else's
burdens. I do not, and everyone else has their free agency. I do not have a
perfect house, perfect waist size, and perfect children. But I am so happy!
Advocate | 8:39 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I very much agree that the issue of access to mental health services as it
relates to health coverage is a major issue. Every year for the last 3-5 years
in Utah, the numbers of uninsured people have increased. I have no douubt that
if there is not an intervention by someone with respect to helping folks in Utah
get the health care they need
--statistics listing Utah leading in health related problems will increase more frequently.
--statistics listing Utah leading in health related problems will increase more frequently.
Me Myself and I | 8:40 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I want to be the first one to officially blame it on the Mormons!!! I
can't think of a reason why...but if anything bad ever happens in Utah
it's always the Mormons fault right??? I can't wait to hear all the
comments that place the blame on the LDS church. Buckle up people, it's
studies like this that add fuel to the fire.
I'm happy | 8:51 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Cause I go to Church everyweek.
Kevin | 8:53 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Guy
Add to that going to church all the time and get told week after week all the things you are not doing right. Another thing to add is all the people that are told that they are bad because of who they are to a point that the people of utah even wrote it into their state constitution no wonder we are so depressed
Add to that going to church all the time and get told week after week all the things you are not doing right. Another thing to add is all the people that are told that they are bad because of who they are to a point that the people of utah even wrote it into their state constitution no wonder we are so depressed
Add your comment
Comments are monitored. Any comments found to be abusive, offensive, off-topic, misrepresentative, more than 200 words or containing URLs will not be posted.
Words Remaining
E-mail address: For internal use only. We may want to contact you to publish your comment (not your e-mail address) in the newspaper or for a separate story idea.
Related content
- House GOP won't take no-tax pledge 12:18 a.m.
- Storms dumped lots of snow in Utah 12:18 a.m.
- Deputies dragged by fleeing car 12:17 a.m.
- Some charities are close to folding 12:16 a.m.
- Insurance exchange not faring well 12:16 a.m.
- Gila Valley Temple dedication set 12:16 a.m.
- Davis schedules 2 free H1N1 clinics 12:15 a.m.
- Mormon mom finds stability in music 12:08 a.m.
- The joys of last-minute Christmas 12:08 a.m.
- Is Tiger Woods a sex addict? 12:07 a.m.
- Wet spot found in Powell's home
- Sources: Josh Powell hires attorney
- Y. opponent nearly smelled roses
- D-Will treats military families to party
- MWC looks better in basketball
- Pace happy not to be noticed
- Maynor amazed by L.A. fans
- High school football: All-region teams
- Jazz Extra: Starting 5
- Jazz will have full lineup tonight
- Gay-friendly curriculum phased out
145 - LDS to emphasize helping needy125
- Unga might enter NFL draft106
- BYU to wear royal blue uniforms103
- Disappearance called 'suspicious'96
- TV mom gives birth to 19th child96
- Choir, guests unwrap musical magic84
- Barkley says Boozer is big problem81
- Sources: Josh Powell hires attorney80
- Stay the course with our president79
David Rankin, one of Utah's youngest and ablest astrophotographers has...
There was a time when free shipping was rare. This holiday season, you...
First of all, to "20/20," how can you read newspapers and not understand...
Latest comments
I agree with the Anae supporters. He has been great for the program and I...
I was sad to see her go home after what I considered one of her best...
Wow. What a concept.
To the little brother comment: BYUs most famous and successful person...
Classic Jazz.
"The Utes drew about 9,200 for both the Michigan and Oklahoma games..."...
We have quit the childish bunch. BSU and Aggies fans are truly the baby...
@mark (snicker) 11:32 p.m.: "Yes, All Knowing (snicker) I have known poor...
Wow, lots of hostility for the man. I wonder why? I don't think some of...
You sure? What kind of oil can we cook with? What light bulb is "good"...
Advertisements