The DEPRESSION Episode & TOOLKIT - Resources, Hot Takes & Holistic Perspective | EP 4

#4 Today, I'm delving deep into the realm of mental health, specifically focusing on depression. This episode is not only a personal narrative but also serves as an educational toolkit for those battling depression or supporting someone who is.

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**Episode Highlights:**

[6:30 MIN]. **Debunking Depression Myths:** Mackenzie challenges the widespread belief that depression is solely caused by a chemical imbalance and discusses recent research that suggests otherwise.

[8:58] **Understanding Depression:** Depression can manifest in various ways, and it's not always about feeling sad. Mackenzie shares her own journey with depression, starting in her early teens, and the symptoms that often go unrecognized.

[11:46] **Flaws in the Western Medical System** 

[14:42] **The DSM-5 Criteria:** A look at the official symptoms and diagnostic criteria for depression, along with Mackenzie's perspective on how these may present in real life.

[17:27] **Personal Story:** Mackenzie reflects on her own experiences with depression and the healthcare system, offering a candid look at her path to diagnosis and self-realization.

[21:50] **Other signs of Depression ** Mackenzie's POV on signs of depression that aren't in the DSM-5

[29:38] **Holistic View and Energy Work:** An exploration of how energy and spirituality can play a role in mental health, especially for those who may be sensitive or empathic.

[34:10] **The Mind-Body-Soul Connection & The Beauty in Depression:**** A discussion on the significance of aligning our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health when addressing mental health issues. A powerful message about how depression can be a signal from our body that something is off, providing an opportunity for deeper self-exploration and healing.

[41:06] **Mental Health Relating to Emotional Health**

[43:43] **Inner Child Assessment Practice**

[45:27] **Physcial Health Tools for Mental Health** Diet, Inflammation, Movement, etc

[59:37] **Mental Health Relating to Spirtual Health and Tools**

[67:00] **Depression Goggles Explanation**

[74:00] **Toolkit and Tips:** Practical advice and tools for those experiencing depression or supporting someone who is, including how to approach conversations about mental health.

**Resources Mentioned:**
- DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
- Articles speaking to the (complexities of) research on depression and chemical imbalances - 

https://www.sciencenews.org/article/chemical-imbalance-explain-depression#:~:text=A%20recent%20review%20of%20evidence,takedown%20of%20the%20serotonin%20hypothesis.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/insight-therapy/202207/depression-is-not-caused-chemical-imbalance-in-the-brain
https://www.technologynetworks.com/neuroscience/articles/a-popular-theory-of-depression-wasnt-debunked-by-a-new-review-it-got-debunked-years-ago-363986


**Call to Action:**
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, remember that you're not alone. Share this episode with them, and let's continue the conversation about mental health. If you're in need of immediate assistance, people reach out to