Lincoln's ability to persevere over extreme obstacles is an inspiration

EDITOR:
As we approach Presidents' Day, I am reminded that Lincoln suffered from depression most of his adult life. Biographers of Lincoln reveal a president who dealt with profound personal struggles while carrying out his presidential responsibilities. He did this during one of the most challenging periods in our country's history. It is remarkable that without the benefit of medication or psychotherapy, he was able to prevail over his personal difficulties and lead this nation in a manner that has demanded the awe and respect of generations.
Millions of people are afflicted by depression each year, and yet this illness is widely misunderstood. Too often in the past, depression was mistakenly considered a sign of emotional weakness or character flaw. However, it is clearly an illness with biological causes. Research has shown that the symptoms of depression are the result of an imbalance of important natural substances called neurotransmitters, which act as "messengers" between nerve cells in the brain. Also, life struggles can trigger or worsen the symptoms of depression.
The key symptoms of depression are a sad, anxious, or empty mood that lasts for two or more weeks; and/or loss of interest or pleasure in most activities that were once enjoyed. Along with these symptoms, several others may exist. They include feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, guilt, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep habits, significant changes in weight or appetite, fatigue, irritability, frequent thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts. Oftentimes, these symptoms are ignored or untreated. People either do not recognize the symptoms, are afraid to appear "weak" or are too depressed to take action.
Major depression (the most serious form) is characterized by symptoms that begin suddenly and are so severe that they may interfere with normal functioning. Dysthmyia is characterized by a chronic state of mild depression, that is, the person may feel "down" much of the time. Bipolar Disorder; formerly manic depression is an illness in which a person alternates between periods of depression and periods of mania or elation characterized in many cases by excessive physical activity, rapidly changing ideas, or poor impulse control.
A variety of medications (called antidepressants) can help relieve the symptoms of depression.
If left untreated, depression can disrupt work, family relations, and limit one's ability to enjoy life. The good news is that medications and psychotherapy have been proven to be very effective in the treatment of this very serious illness.
DENNIS W. NEBEL, Psy.D
New Castle, Pa.
The writer is executive director of the Human Services Center in New Castle.