Religion: Depression and the (Mormon) church

World On The Web ^ | March 8, 2008 | Kristin Chapman

[Gamecock]

The release of a recent study that found Utah is the most depressed state in the country is leading to controversial questions about whether there is a correlation between depression and the Mormon faith. Ultimately, the reason behind Utah’s mass depression is unknown. However, Dr. Curtis Canning, a psychiatrist and former president of the Utah Psychiatric Association, believes there is a cultural factor involved, especially with Mormon women who may feel that in order to be a good mother and wife, they “have to put on this mask of perfection. They can’t show their tears, depression or agony.”

But Brent Scharman, a psychologist and the assistant commissioner of LDS Family Services, isn’t convinced there’s a crisis in Utah and the Mormon church. Instead he cites the fact that “religion is good support” that ”creates a positive network and helps people get through crises and deal with long-term problems.”

“Are there people who feel ‘I’m not living up to the LDS ideal,’ or ‘I’m not living up to my family’s expectations’? Absolutely, there is no question. But having done counseling outside the LDS community, I saw people there, too, who were depressed because of perfectionism,” he said. “I wouldn’t say it is any worse here than in more diverse communities.”

What do you think about Scharman’s point that the pursuit of perfection in any religious community can be a root of depression? Is this something you have observed in your congregation?

[Religion Moderator]

It certainly is getting old for me.

Discuss the issues ..... do NOT make it personal.

[Old Mountain man]

Dear RM:

So far, I seem to be on the consistent receiving end. I only copied you in self-defense!

[Religion Moderator]

This exchange - which has become increasingly personal - began with your post 42 which used pronouns and was therefore, taken personally though you denied that was your intent at 45.

Once anyone goes down that road of "making it personal" - or "taking it personally" - the potential for a flamewar exists.

[Elsie]

HELL is ok if describing religious terms; just not like I did.

Ok.

(I do have HECK in my tagline... ;^)

[Elsie]

Don’t get all excited because I gave you a fancy one instead of a generic one.

When you play with the variables - THEN perhaps you get a gold star or a smiley face sticker.

[Elsie]

Now, what are you accusing me of?

Nothing.

I even used ME as an example.

[Elsie]

I am just so thankful I found “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!”

Most folks would say...

I am just so thankful I found Jesus!

[Elsie]

Once anyone goes down that road of "making it personal" - or "taking it personally" - the potential for a flamewar exists.

We have been being better in our responses to each other.

Let's choose to continue.

[Tennessee Nana]

the Xers and anti’s
______________________________________

Is that game anything like X’s annd O’s ???

Like Tic Tac Toe ???

[Tennessee Nana]

I am just so thankful I found “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!”
__________________________________________________

Your Mom’s glad too...

Now you can play in the sandbox

:)

[Tennessee Nana]

I am just so thankful I found “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!”
_______________________________________

Oh goody another game...

Is it like Hide and Seek...

Or A Tisket A Tasket I lost my Yellow Basket..

:)

[Tennessee Nana]

Bitter xers and anti’s happiness comes from slaming the LDS!
___________________________________________________

Is that like slamming the door ????

Someone’s Mommy will be mad...

:(

[Tennessee Nana]

I am just so thankful I found Jesus!
_____________________________________

I am just so thankful I found Jesus, too...

And I was the one who was lost

:)

[Tennessee Nana]

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

I’ve been hanging around Elsie...

Oh, well, it’s been good for me

:)

[Elsie]

Oh, well, it’s been good for me

Oh NO!!!!

I'll get the big head!

[Tennessee Nana]

You Silly

I meant posting several in a row ...

LOL

:)

[fproy2222]

I have just read through this thread, and like most threads about the LDS Church, there are a lot of posts that just degrade our religion.

And this on a thread that one would think posters would have a reason to help the sick and afflicted.

True character stands out well.

[Old Mountain man]

Many of the posts are not aimed at helping, but seem to be aimed at either personal harm or harm toward our Church members in general, all in the name of “salvation”.

[Elsie]

Many of the posts are not aimed at helping, but seem to be aimed at either personal harm or harm toward our Church members in general, all in the name of “salvation”.

So true; but the OTHER 97.3% are helpful in all kinds of ways!

[Elsie]

And this on a thread that one would think posters would have a reason to help the sick and afflicted.