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Utah leads the nation in rates of depression
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Anonymous | 9:00 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I would be depressed also with all the people moving into the state wanting to
turn it into the cesspool that they left.
No Way | 9:02 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
So, Guy, did the therapy work or are you just given in to extreem hyperbole? I
used to live in Southern California and ambient air temperature wasn't
enough to keep me there. Couldn't get an appointment with any of the
celebrity therapists and the dirty air blocked seeing the mountains. The 90
minute commute was driving me crazy. So I decided that I would rather be
depressed in Idaho than mingle with the wingnuts in California during my
everyday drive to work. Something's wrong though, I'm not depressed
despite the lack of mental health "professionals." Maybe being around
normal people halps prevent depression -- works for me.
Comments continue below
Matthew | 9:08 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Well suicide rate seems straight forward. But how are they measuring the
incidence of depression? The availability of mental health treatment is no
measure at all, even if it is a good thing. Likewise concerns about cost
aren't connected. Sounds more like a meaningless number-crunching
publicity stunt to me.
At least in Utah people seem to be treating depression with anti-depressant prescriptions monitored by a doctor instead of self-medicating with alcohol like most of the world. Try substituting alcohol consumption for one of those meaningless metrics and see where Utah comes out.
The rate or anti-depressant prescriptions should have an inverse relationship to how depressed a state is rather than the opposite that previous "studies" have used.
At least in Utah people seem to be treating depression with anti-depressant prescriptions monitored by a doctor instead of self-medicating with alcohol like most of the world. Try substituting alcohol consumption for one of those meaningless metrics and see where Utah comes out.
The rate or anti-depressant prescriptions should have an inverse relationship to how depressed a state is rather than the opposite that previous "studies" have used.
Henry Drummond | 9:10 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I did go to the web site and tried to find this report. All that shows up is a
press release that refers you back to the same sight for the "full
report". I've explored every link but it just isn't there.
I'm sure this will cause a lot of talk in the state about this, but before we take action or draw conclusions it would be nice if we could actually get the report. I would enjoy hearing from someone in the Mental Health Community who has read this thing before I am willing to draw the conclusion that we are "the most depressed state in the union".
From the press release this does not seem to be based on facts such as suicide rates but on their perception of the accessibility of mental health services. I really think its unfortunate that all the news starts making statements that may not be supported by the facts and then this goes into the lore about Utah.
I'm sure this will cause a lot of talk in the state about this, but before we take action or draw conclusions it would be nice if we could actually get the report. I would enjoy hearing from someone in the Mental Health Community who has read this thing before I am willing to draw the conclusion that we are "the most depressed state in the union".
From the press release this does not seem to be based on facts such as suicide rates but on their perception of the accessibility of mental health services. I really think its unfortunate that all the news starts making statements that may not be supported by the facts and then this goes into the lore about Utah.
anoyomous | 9:15 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
The predominant religion has a huge factor on depression. Women in the LDS
faith continue to take anti-depressants and tell the other sisters in the ward
how remarkable they are. So it is a domino effect. People in religion will do
what they are told and what their peers think is right. Problem. Too many
pressures on mormon women, to be the perfect wife, mother, neighbor, community
service person, have a calling etc. And if their kids are not perfect that is
a whole other spiraling effect. Not worth it.
Pharmaceutical rep. | 9:15 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
You can find out how many anti-depressants are prescribed in any state by
contacting the drug wholesalers, (McKesson, etc._ of your area.
Pharmacy Times also has this information.
I've already checked this out, and Utah does in fact lead the nation for anti-depressant prescriptions.
Why do you suppose this is?
Pharmacy Times also has this information.
I've already checked this out, and Utah does in fact lead the nation for anti-depressant prescriptions.
Why do you suppose this is?
Matthew | 9:19 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I just went to the website. The report doesn't seem to actually be
available there. The four actual measures they used were:
1) the percentage of the adult population experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year
2) the percentage of the adolescent population experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year
3) the percentage of adults experiencing serious psychological distress
4) the average number of days in the last 30 days in which the population reported that their mental health was not good.
But it doesn't say how these numbers were obtained. The range of "depression" was 7% to 10%. I'll bet that the uncertainty error bars for the measurements is +/- 5% and so I'd say that all the states are the same. Until I find the actual report I'm dismissing this as junk science in pursuit of a political agenda.
1) the percentage of the adult population experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year
2) the percentage of the adolescent population experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year
3) the percentage of adults experiencing serious psychological distress
4) the average number of days in the last 30 days in which the population reported that their mental health was not good.
But it doesn't say how these numbers were obtained. The range of "depression" was 7% to 10%. I'll bet that the uncertainty error bars for the measurements is +/- 5% and so I'd say that all the states are the same. Until I find the actual report I'm dismissing this as junk science in pursuit of a political agenda.
Miss Synthia Forsyth | 9:20 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I have to agree with the mass majority of these comments, in saying that it is
the LDS churches fault. Because, they set such high standards, they expect
perfection from their children. And when their kids figure out that they
aren't capable of such perfection, they take it out on themselves.
NOBODY'S PERFECT!
NOBODY'S PERFECT!
intermountain west | 9:33 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Umm...didn't the article mention that it's not just Utah but several
of the surrounding states as well that have this problem? Utah is the only one
of these states that has such a dominant Mormon population, so I don't
think that religion is the root cause here. It could be the weather, although
this is less convincing to me because there are states with worse weather (like
Wyoming...it's terrible). I think the health care system certainly seems a
feasible explanation.
Reality | 9:35 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Societies like the Mormon culture that live for the promise of pie in the sky
rather than for the love of life on earth today are unusually effected in ways
of depression, overweight and anxiety.
grundle | 9:35 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I actually agree with some of the comments posted here. I think that there are
elements of the LDS culture that contribute to the depression problem here.
There seems to be an undercurrent of competition for who can be the most righteous, faithful, wealthy, and perfect. So much so that we feel the need to appear perfect all the while professing our imperfections. I have counseled people to find happiness in their journey and not worry about the judgements others place on them but it seems that most find that difficult.
Don't know if this really contributes to the problems we collectively have with depression??
A humerous side note...I ran into a member of my ward in the grocery store and I was holding a bottle of diet pepsi to purchase. As soon as he noticed the caffienated beverage in my hand the tenor of our meeting changed. That person has not spoken to me since. I guess I didn't live up to his standards.
I still enjoyed the drink!
There seems to be an undercurrent of competition for who can be the most righteous, faithful, wealthy, and perfect. So much so that we feel the need to appear perfect all the while professing our imperfections. I have counseled people to find happiness in their journey and not worry about the judgements others place on them but it seems that most find that difficult.
Don't know if this really contributes to the problems we collectively have with depression??
A humerous side note...I ran into a member of my ward in the grocery store and I was holding a bottle of diet pepsi to purchase. As soon as he noticed the caffienated beverage in my hand the tenor of our meeting changed. That person has not spoken to me since. I guess I didn't live up to his standards.
I still enjoyed the drink!
Anonymous2 | 9:36 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I do not believe that the LDS Church itself is THE root cause of so many people
that are "depressed" or are indeed self-medicating here in Utah.
I've noticed since moving here two years ago, that the majority of people here in MY neighborhood, are under the influence of some time of prescribed medication. Most have the innate ability and CAPABILITY to persevere, but mistakenly beleive that they are living in "Zion" ergo, nothing bad should happen to them. Sheer fallacy.(and doctrinally incorrect as well) Too many people her want to give the ILLUSION that they are perfect, reality reached out and graphically lets them know of their human frailties. Too bad that so many Utahns are so naive(and lazy) enough to believe that THEY are (or should be) protected from life's challenges. Buck up People! Get a grip on reality. DEAL with life, don't hide from it. Sheesh.Life can be fantastic, even when you're NOT the perfect Molly Mommy. (Pssst-you don't HAVE to be you know!)
I've noticed since moving here two years ago, that the majority of people here in MY neighborhood, are under the influence of some time of prescribed medication. Most have the innate ability and CAPABILITY to persevere, but mistakenly beleive that they are living in "Zion" ergo, nothing bad should happen to them. Sheer fallacy.(and doctrinally incorrect as well) Too many people her want to give the ILLUSION that they are perfect, reality reached out and graphically lets them know of their human frailties. Too bad that so many Utahns are so naive(and lazy) enough to believe that THEY are (or should be) protected from life's challenges. Buck up People! Get a grip on reality. DEAL with life, don't hide from it. Sheesh.Life can be fantastic, even when you're NOT the perfect Molly Mommy. (Pssst-you don't HAVE to be you know!)
Solved our problem | 9:37 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Our son was diagnosed with a serious depression problem by a prominent
psychiatrist, who informed us that his condition was inherited, and therefore
could not be cured but only controlled and managed through prescription drugs
and counseling.
My son improved somewhat, but not enough to live a normal life.
We stopped seeing a health care "professional", and took my son to an accupuncturist, and changed his diet to include whole grains, LOTS of fresh vegetables and fruits, and HERBS.
Within two weeks, my son, who had been depressed, violent and angry, turned into a calm, happy kid. His social life returned to normal, and he resumed school.
Now he is a returned missionary, married, holds down a good job, a college graduate, talented musician, with natural leadership ability to keep up with demanding church callings.
I really hope this post helps some other mother out there!!! As I am soooo glad we got our son AWAY from so called "Health Care Professionals"
My son improved somewhat, but not enough to live a normal life.
We stopped seeing a health care "professional", and took my son to an accupuncturist, and changed his diet to include whole grains, LOTS of fresh vegetables and fruits, and HERBS.
Within two weeks, my son, who had been depressed, violent and angry, turned into a calm, happy kid. His social life returned to normal, and he resumed school.
Now he is a returned missionary, married, holds down a good job, a college graduate, talented musician, with natural leadership ability to keep up with demanding church callings.
I really hope this post helps some other mother out there!!! As I am soooo glad we got our son AWAY from so called "Health Care Professionals"
Facts and figures | 9:40 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
According to a study based on prescription claims from one mail-order
pharmaceutical provider,(Prescription Drug Atlas) Utah ranked first in
antidepressant and narcotic painkiller use.
(source: Wikipedia)
I feel so sorry for the people of Utah (especially the women) who are so helplessly depressed and drug dependant.
(source: Wikipedia)
I feel so sorry for the people of Utah (especially the women) who are so helplessly depressed and drug dependant.
abb | 9:42 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Anonymous may be correct, we can't just swallow the study findings hook,
line and sinker. However, I do think we have a major depression problem and
maybe we do need to rethink our thinking.
The implication here is of course that the LDS church is a major causal factor. It would be interesting to do a study of practicing mormons and see if they have a depression problem different from national and state averages.
Some of the comments above suggest that trying to live up to high LDS standards is a depressing impossible challange. I think it is likley that living around people with high standards that you are not able or willing to keep up with could also be depressing.
The implication here is of course that the LDS church is a major causal factor. It would be interesting to do a study of practicing mormons and see if they have a depression problem different from national and state averages.
Some of the comments above suggest that trying to live up to high LDS standards is a depressing impossible challange. I think it is likley that living around people with high standards that you are not able or willing to keep up with could also be depressing.
Set it straight | 9:44 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
For all the Mormon bashers let's set it straight.
RE: "No Surprise Here". Who says that returned missionaries are "expected" to marry within two years? Do you see that anywhere in scripture or any modern church leaders' talks? No. I've been home almost 4 years, still single, still happy. And I've never had a church leader call me to repentance or tell me they are worried about me. That expectation of marriage is self imposed by members, not the church.
If one truly understands the principles of the LDS faith, they won't be depressed. I'll be honest. I have dealt with depression in my own life. It's a genetic thing (if you don't believe me, ask any doctor). But once I realized that I can't be everywhere and do everything, and I've learned to accept that being imperfect is life, I'm alright with it. I still live by my beliefs the best I can, but I don't let it drive me to depression.
Lastly, is it such a bad thing that the bar is set so high in the Mormon church? I don't think so. I think the world could use some higher standards, especially our country.
RE: "No Surprise Here". Who says that returned missionaries are "expected" to marry within two years? Do you see that anywhere in scripture or any modern church leaders' talks? No. I've been home almost 4 years, still single, still happy. And I've never had a church leader call me to repentance or tell me they are worried about me. That expectation of marriage is self imposed by members, not the church.
If one truly understands the principles of the LDS faith, they won't be depressed. I'll be honest. I have dealt with depression in my own life. It's a genetic thing (if you don't believe me, ask any doctor). But once I realized that I can't be everywhere and do everything, and I've learned to accept that being imperfect is life, I'm alright with it. I still live by my beliefs the best I can, but I don't let it drive me to depression.
Lastly, is it such a bad thing that the bar is set so high in the Mormon church? I don't think so. I think the world could use some higher standards, especially our country.
Pills | 9:45 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
To me something needs to be done without having to have medical treatment for
depression. Isn't there something we can do before someone has to have
medical treatment. When my wife and I moved here to Utah, I was very surprised
to see how many people are taking medication for depression. When my wife
started to feel down, the first thing her mom told her to do was to go see the
doctor and get some depression medication. My family was totally fine and never
had an issue with depression until moving to Utah. I personally think the
mindset of trying to keep up with the Jones is a major factor. I do also think
the smog makes you feel crummy and not want to do anything. This valley has
some of the worst pollution I have ever lived in (California, Washington,
Louisville, Missouri, Oregon).
Are We Stupid | 9:47 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
As a University researcher I always laugh at these studies. Wow! big news, a
group that is funded by drugists and gains thier whole validity on the findings
of thier own, study has disovered that the states with the fewest clinics have
the highest rate of depression!
Give me a break, Are people seriously buying this study.
If so I guess I better do a study and determine that the University of Utah is the greatest Univeristy in the Universe. So what if they pay my salary its still 100% objective and unbiased.
Kudos to the western states for being the least drugged up states in the union.
Give me a break, Are people seriously buying this study.
If so I guess I better do a study and determine that the University of Utah is the greatest Univeristy in the Universe. So what if they pay my salary its still 100% objective and unbiased.
Kudos to the western states for being the least drugged up states in the union.
Now is the Time | 9:51 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I am LDS and have a great deal of experience with mental illness in my own
family as well as my profession. The LDS Church and its members are rife with an
attitude that "mental illness" is really just SIN. Consequently,
people and families who suffer from depression or other mental illnesses in Utah
are subtly as well as explicitly judged and condemned as being sinners.
This is not only interpersonal, it is institutionalized. The LDS Church does not adequately train their �lay clergy� to be competent in handling mental health or family issues � in other words, Bishops and Stake Presidents are HORRIBLE at counseling with people suffering from these problems! I could tell you some shocking war stories in this regard. And although others will not doubt comment that THEY �had a bishop who saved their marriage and was wonderful,� the numbers show that such stories are the rare exception.
In my opinion, the LDS Church is failing miserably in its moral obligation to help those afflicted with mental illness! Repentance is way overdue!
This is not only interpersonal, it is institutionalized. The LDS Church does not adequately train their �lay clergy� to be competent in handling mental health or family issues � in other words, Bishops and Stake Presidents are HORRIBLE at counseling with people suffering from these problems! I could tell you some shocking war stories in this regard. And although others will not doubt comment that THEY �had a bishop who saved their marriage and was wonderful,� the numbers show that such stories are the rare exception.
In my opinion, the LDS Church is failing miserably in its moral obligation to help those afflicted with mental illness! Repentance is way overdue!
abb | 9:51 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Pharmaceutical rep - it is because we don't drink alcohol. the
anit-depressants have replaced the alcohol.
Heather in Wisconsin | 9:56 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
1. Grey weather and lack of sunlight can affect people. Seasonal Affective
Disorder. I know, I live in Wisconsin.
2. Most non-LDS people do self-medicate with alcohol and other drugs. I know, I live in Wisconsin.
3. Depression has a very strong genetic componant. Could it be that many of the early Utah settlers had a genetic predisposition for depression and we are all the beneficiaries of that?
4. Some people want to blame the high expectations of the LDS church on depression. That may be the case for some people who misunderstand the doctrine. They know Christ's commandment to "Be thou Perfect" (Matthew 5:48) and feel hopeless with their inability to reach that. In those cases they just don't get the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The Atonement is central to LDS doctrine. "Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him...then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ" (Moroni 10:32). True understanding of LDS doctrine brings hope, not depression.
2. Most non-LDS people do self-medicate with alcohol and other drugs. I know, I live in Wisconsin.
3. Depression has a very strong genetic componant. Could it be that many of the early Utah settlers had a genetic predisposition for depression and we are all the beneficiaries of that?
4. Some people want to blame the high expectations of the LDS church on depression. That may be the case for some people who misunderstand the doctrine. They know Christ's commandment to "Be thou Perfect" (Matthew 5:48) and feel hopeless with their inability to reach that. In those cases they just don't get the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The Atonement is central to LDS doctrine. "Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him...then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ" (Moroni 10:32). True understanding of LDS doctrine brings hope, not depression.
geography | 9:56 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming are at the top. I wonder if perhaps it has more to
do with geography and the things that come with it than the LDS church.
I love the kneejerk reaction that having high standards and "always being told what to do" is a major cause of depression, but take a rational look at it.
I also looked at the suicide rates and 8 of the top 10 (Alaska being number 1) are from the same geographic location. And before you say it's because there are also a lot of mormons from those states, of those states in the same geographic location, Utah was last, behind Nevada, New Mexico, Wyoming, Colorado, and Idaho in that order. I'm sure the church is a cause of depression in a small % of mormons but it appears geography plays a much bigger part. Look at facts rather than prejudice.
P.S. I also agree with others that access to healthcare is a pretty weak statistical link to actual rates of depression.
I love the kneejerk reaction that having high standards and "always being told what to do" is a major cause of depression, but take a rational look at it.
I also looked at the suicide rates and 8 of the top 10 (Alaska being number 1) are from the same geographic location. And before you say it's because there are also a lot of mormons from those states, of those states in the same geographic location, Utah was last, behind Nevada, New Mexico, Wyoming, Colorado, and Idaho in that order. I'm sure the church is a cause of depression in a small % of mormons but it appears geography plays a much bigger part. Look at facts rather than prejudice.
P.S. I also agree with others that access to healthcare is a pretty weak statistical link to actual rates of depression.
Is it just me, | 9:56 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
or does the study seem a bit too generalized. Nowhere does the article reference
what facts or data the organization gathered to make their conclusions. They
simply stated that "...one of the biggest factors in Utah's ranking is
lack of access to mental health services, due in large part to a lack of or
minimal coverage for mental health services on most employer-provided insurance
plans."
I don't know about you, but this sounds to me like our state has been ranked #1 in depression rates simply because we have the poorest access to mental health services in the country. That may be true, but does one cause the other?
Keep in mind that I do realize Utah's high rate of depression is a big problem, but in order to tackle the problem we need to know the actual cause. In my opinion, there is too much speculation in this study and (sad to say) in this forum.
I don't know about you, but this sounds to me like our state has been ranked #1 in depression rates simply because we have the poorest access to mental health services in the country. That may be true, but does one cause the other?
Keep in mind that I do realize Utah's high rate of depression is a big problem, but in order to tackle the problem we need to know the actual cause. In my opinion, there is too much speculation in this study and (sad to say) in this forum.
Pity the women | 9:59 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Why does this NOT surprise me?
With the monstrous practice of patriarchy, if I were a woman from this culture, I'd find ways to stay perpetually stoned.
With the monstrous practice of patriarchy, if I were a woman from this culture, I'd find ways to stay perpetually stoned.
Researcher | 10:00 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
The article says the least depressed state is South Dakota. That alone makes
the data suspect.
A Nony Mouse | 10:02 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Every time a study like this appears there is the same predictable response: the
LDS debate. Isn't it about time some study, loaded like this one or
legitimate, include religion as a data point? If depression is higher among the
LDS population, so be it. If it's the same as or lower than the non-LDS
population, so be it. At least it would prevent this same weary flame-war.
Anonymous | 10:03 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
In my experience as a counselor, I have found that many practitioners of the
"dominant culture" in Utah might struggle because they do not
differentiate between family expectations, cultural traditions, and general
opinion as opposed to actual church doctrine. I've met many ideas about the
church held by its own members that were simply not true. Yes, there are high
standards expected, but they are also counseled by their leaders to pace
themselves, to plan, to adjust as circumstances warrant, to take time to enjoy
and develop their talents and interests as well, to say 'no' to
overtaxing demands, to not spread themselves too thin. As with all things, it is
a work in progress, and the mixed results reflect the lives of people at
different stages of development.
Actually, it is of greater interest to me to note that depression rates in Utah have gone up as the non-LDS population has increased. Make what you will of that. The study said nothing at all about the religious persuasion of its respondents. You make a big stretch in assuming that even the majority of them are LDS.
Actually, it is of greater interest to me to note that depression rates in Utah have gone up as the non-LDS population has increased. Make what you will of that. The study said nothing at all about the religious persuasion of its respondents. You make a big stretch in assuming that even the majority of them are LDS.
troll | 10:03 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I used to have severe bouts with depression. Then, after joining the LDS church,
and improving my life-style, depression is no longer an issue for me.
Now I live in Seattle WA. (renoun for it's abundance of sunshine). I'd be a basket case without the LDS church in my life. Or, at best, an alcoholic.
Now I live in Seattle WA. (renoun for it's abundance of sunshine). I'd be a basket case without the LDS church in my life. Or, at best, an alcoholic.
JG | 10:06 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
This is not the first time this kind of article has been written about Utah.
All other articles that I have read in the last 20 years on this topics also
never took into account all of the people across the US who self-medicate with
illegal drugs and alcohol.
As for blaming the Mormon church, the only way to get an accurate look at that is to compare Mormons from areas all over the world with other religions all over the world. Though even then you'd have to also take into account people's self-medication. What pharmaceutical company is going to want to do that? It's much too easy to make inferences and let everyone fly off the handle and say, "It's ALL because of (fill in the blank)".
As for blaming the Mormon church, the only way to get an accurate look at that is to compare Mormons from areas all over the world with other religions all over the world. Though even then you'd have to also take into account people's self-medication. What pharmaceutical company is going to want to do that? It's much too easy to make inferences and let everyone fly off the handle and say, "It's ALL because of (fill in the blank)".
Read the article | 10:18 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
The main reason Utah has been declared the most depressed is because of the lack
of health care coverage. This study being done by a major drug company (a bit
fishy). Sounds like someone wants more money.
In addition, who is the most depressed in Utah? Mormons or Non-mormons? Does the article mention any studies done to find out? Until then, the LDS church is not to blame. And what unreal expectations are you folks talking about?
The article is flawed. How can a state be most depressed because it has a lack of coverage in an area where money is to be gained? The drug company doesn't want people to find out the cheap and easy way to overcome depression. Get out and get some exercise. It can cause you to be happy.
In addition, who is the most depressed in Utah? Mormons or Non-mormons? Does the article mention any studies done to find out? Until then, the LDS church is not to blame. And what unreal expectations are you folks talking about?
The article is flawed. How can a state be most depressed because it has a lack of coverage in an area where money is to be gained? The drug company doesn't want people to find out the cheap and easy way to overcome depression. Get out and get some exercise. It can cause you to be happy.
JOE SChmoe | 10:20 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I love it how the blame for Utah's depression falls on the LDS Church.
"too many pressures on mormon women", you say.
While I admit that there is growing pressure on parents to raise children with brains, talents, and abilities that will help them be productive adults, I don't attribute that pressure to the LDS church. I attribute it to the fact that it's harder for EVERYONE (not just LDS) to raise good kids these days. Most mothers (mormon or otherwise) would admit that they feel the demands of their children don't allow for much personal time. Most fathers (assuming the father is the one earninig a living) would admit that work demands more of their time, energy, and devotion and that they find it hard to spend quality time with their kids. These factors are not specific to families in the mormon church, but probably contribute to the depression referred to in the study.
It's an american culture issue, not mormon.
While I admit that there is growing pressure on parents to raise children with brains, talents, and abilities that will help them be productive adults, I don't attribute that pressure to the LDS church. I attribute it to the fact that it's harder for EVERYONE (not just LDS) to raise good kids these days. Most mothers (mormon or otherwise) would admit that they feel the demands of their children don't allow for much personal time. Most fathers (assuming the father is the one earninig a living) would admit that work demands more of their time, energy, and devotion and that they find it hard to spend quality time with their kids. These factors are not specific to families in the mormon church, but probably contribute to the depression referred to in the study.
It's an american culture issue, not mormon.
Arm of Orion | 10:22 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Perhaps the reason why Utah is so depressed is because we the people keep
bickering back and forth about whose worse than whom or about how Jesus loves me
and not you. Guys the best way to be happy is to put others above yourself and
to always love your neighbor no matter they may do.
as per usual | 10:32 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Re: JOE SChmoe
Spoken by your typical LDS patriarch.
Spoken by your typical LDS patriarch.
Depressed about winter | 10:35 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Scandinavians are the most depressed people in the world. There are a lot of
Scandinavians in Utah. Has that been examined?
Miss Synthia Forsyth | 10:37 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
First off, I have to ask... Why is someone from Wisconsin reading the Utah news?
Second, I personally suffer from Major Depression, and I know that their a lot
of things that caused it. Things like these:
-school
-gossip
-church (yes, I am mormon, but now I'm inactive or whatever)
-homesickness (our family moved here to utah, from washington, and I miss Washington, cause I loved the rain and everything else there)
-family issues
-heart break
-And the feeling, that every day, I'm doing the same thing... over... and over... and over...
-school
-gossip
-church (yes, I am mormon, but now I'm inactive or whatever)
-homesickness (our family moved here to utah, from washington, and I miss Washington, cause I loved the rain and everything else there)
-family issues
-heart break
-And the feeling, that every day, I'm doing the same thing... over... and over... and over...
Depressing | 10:38 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
This article and all your comments just reminded me to take my prozac.
N/A | 10:39 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Do your research. If you split the demographic, and look and the active LDS
population as a whole, the suicide rate is below the national average. The LDS
culture is not the cause, it is the fringe culture. If you live the Gospel, you
will be happy. Been there, done that.
I Am Not depressed! | 10:44 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I am a LDS woman, homemaker, mother of 7 very young children. I gave up a
career to be a wife and mom. I was there, clawing up the ladder until I met my
sweet husband and eternity hit me in the face. I do sometimes wake up a little
down that I have to face 4 loads of laundry a day, keeping my home clean,
planning FHE lessons, Sunday School lessons, driving kids here and there for
activities or lessons. I get more than irritated when I hear that I'm
depressed because I'm LDS. I'm NOT. My 'lifestyle' is a
chosen one. I have the fancy degrees, had the really cool job and now my life
has shifted to what is really important: Raising up the next generation.
I'm not depressed, I'm not subservant to my husband, I'm not a
mommy slave. I have the choice of who I am, who I will be and how I will live
and enjoy or hate my lot in life.
gabriel | 10:47 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Suicide to some is LIFE ELEVATED
Nothing ever wrong? | 10:49 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Dear N/A:
I believe giving credit where credit is due.
Rather than getting defensive and whining the usual persecution complex story, why not stop and take the time to see what is really happening within the organization to see if something needs fixing?
I believe giving credit where credit is due.
Rather than getting defensive and whining the usual persecution complex story, why not stop and take the time to see what is really happening within the organization to see if something needs fixing?
byron | 10:50 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
This study has nothing to do with weather or the lds church; it's about
selling more perscription drugs. Or is it just a huge coincidence that a study
funded by a major drug company lists the states with the least amount of funding
for depression as the most depressed. More funding = more money for the drug
company.
Miss Synthia Forsyth | 10:51 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I've known at least two people that were LDS and did suicide because of it.
They couldn't take the pressure of our religion. Face it, the LDS religion
is at least a small part of why people are depressed.
Stating the Obvious | 10:53 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
This study is completely bogus. Considering access to health insurance and
mental health facilities as factors of depression makes no since. Did it never
occur to them that Utah has less mental health facilities because it is less
depressed, not more?
It is always fun to watch the LDS church get lambasted for the results of bogus studies like this. Don't forget that BYU, an LDS institution, is considered by Princeton Review as one of the Happiest student bodies on earth. So if the LDS church makes you depressed, why is everyone at BYU so happy?
It is always fun to watch the LDS church get lambasted for the results of bogus studies like this. Don't forget that BYU, an LDS institution, is considered by Princeton Review as one of the Happiest student bodies on earth. So if the LDS church makes you depressed, why is everyone at BYU so happy?
Thomas | 10:55 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Re: the Scandinavian factor, I thought of that, too -- but then I saw that the
Dakotas and Minnesota, which are chockablock with Scandinavians, are at or near
the top of the happy-skippy-joy list.
The weather's worse there, too, so that can't be it.
It's impossible to rule out the influence of the LDS Church. I'd guess this elevates the depression rate in multiple ways:
1. The Church is a wonderful church, as churches go, but it claims to be something more than that -- the literal Kingdom of God, with the visions and blessings of old, etc. Rightly or wrongly, many people expect more of the Church than they get, and the dissonance disturbs them mentally.
2. The Church is a wonderful society to those who fit in, but it's also a closed society. There are bright lines drawn between the in-group and the outsiders. This can't be particularly good for the outsiders' mental health, even if they are inherently wicked and weak and deserve whatever they get.
3. The Church really does demand a lot of people. The sacrifices develop a powerful ability to endure, but also require people to endure more.
The weather's worse there, too, so that can't be it.
It's impossible to rule out the influence of the LDS Church. I'd guess this elevates the depression rate in multiple ways:
1. The Church is a wonderful church, as churches go, but it claims to be something more than that -- the literal Kingdom of God, with the visions and blessings of old, etc. Rightly or wrongly, many people expect more of the Church than they get, and the dissonance disturbs them mentally.
2. The Church is a wonderful society to those who fit in, but it's also a closed society. There are bright lines drawn between the in-group and the outsiders. This can't be particularly good for the outsiders' mental health, even if they are inherently wicked and weak and deserve whatever they get.
3. The Church really does demand a lot of people. The sacrifices develop a powerful ability to endure, but also require people to endure more.
Sacto | 10:57 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I live in Northern California, which has a relatively mild climate. When I was
in the Army, I spent a winter at a remote Field Artillery site in Western Turkey
now that is depressing. Northern Utah is ski heaven.
Happy Valley? | 11:00 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Does this mean there is no more Happy Valley??
Average Mormon | 11:01 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
I would assume that many of the factors listed here are all to blame
Religious Pressure
Financial Debt � high bankruptcy rate and fraud scams
Pecuniary emulation � keeping up with the Jones�
Conspicuous consumption � buying things to be see and praised
Winter Weather
Etc.
There are too many variables to put the blame on one sole event or outcome. Doing so, is a simpleton�s uneducated means to an end. In many cases it is to belittle those of a particular faith in this case. I�m not saying that religious pressure doesn�t play a role because personally I feel it does, but rather it�s only a factor in a large equation.
Religious Pressure
Financial Debt � high bankruptcy rate and fraud scams
Pecuniary emulation � keeping up with the Jones�
Conspicuous consumption � buying things to be see and praised
Winter Weather
Etc.
There are too many variables to put the blame on one sole event or outcome. Doing so, is a simpleton�s uneducated means to an end. In many cases it is to belittle those of a particular faith in this case. I�m not saying that religious pressure doesn�t play a role because personally I feel it does, but rather it�s only a factor in a large equation.
annoyed | 11:04 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
When is snows it IS good skiing in Utah.
Now if they can only do something about their holier-than-thou hypocritical culture.
The outside world is becoming increasingly annoyed.
Now if they can only do something about their holier-than-thou hypocritical culture.
The outside world is becoming increasingly annoyed.
Memememe | 11:05 a.m. Nov. 29, 2007
Hubby was depressed and on antipressants before moving here - even before I met
him.It's genetic- his mom is also. I suffered mild panic disorder before
moving here and now it is worse. The reason - too many bad things happening in
my neighborhood.
We are happy when we do what we are the most happy doing and that is attending the temple and fulfilling our callings.
We are from New England and did see a lot of people who self-medicated using illegal drugs, cigarettes and alcohol. I had a friend who is bipolar and she can't understand how my husband is able to function without lighting a cigarette. Lots of mental health clinicians find it hard to believe that someone who is bipolar isn't reaching for a cigarette or alcohol.
Don't blame the church - they have nothing to do iwth it. People are their own worse enemy and we do have a tendency to put ourselves under too powerful a microscope.
We are happy when we do what we are the most happy doing and that is attending the temple and fulfilling our callings.
We are from New England and did see a lot of people who self-medicated using illegal drugs, cigarettes and alcohol. I had a friend who is bipolar and she can't understand how my husband is able to function without lighting a cigarette. Lots of mental health clinicians find it hard to believe that someone who is bipolar isn't reaching for a cigarette or alcohol.
Don't blame the church - they have nothing to do iwth it. People are their own worse enemy and we do have a tendency to put ourselves under too powerful a microscope.
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However, I now reside in Nauvoo, IL lots of cold gray-gray days. Your statements about weather just doesn't account for Utah's condition with respect to all Northern States from coast to coast that experience the same weather.
It's Mormonism not the weather!