Treasures out of the Darkness

No one could have made me believe that with my jubilant,out-going, assertive, and energetic personality – thinkEnergizer Bunny – I would wake up one morning and seemingly have the life sucked out of me. August 27, 1999,was such a morning.

I awakened to prepare breakfast for my family, and afterwards my husband, Rudy, offered to take the girls toschool. I was appreciative of a fewextra minutes to get ready. I thankedhim and kissed them goodbye. Afterfinishing my makeup I walked out ofthe bathroom, and I began to feelsick. I called my administrativeassistant and told her that I wasn’tfeeling well, so I would be in aroundnoon. I hung up the phone and sawmyself pick it up again, push thespeed-dial button and say “I won’tbe in today, I don’t know when I’ll beback. I’m taking a leave of absenceor medical leave or something.” I hung up the phone andproceeded to have what my grandmother would havecalled a nervous breakdown. I lay down and experienced adownward spiral into a pit of darkness.

In the days to follow I would become overwhelmed by anxiety, lose my ability to concentrate and remain cloisteredin my home. I slept 18–20 hours a day, awakening only long

Fall/Winter 2010

Interview with Dr. Sanjay Mathew

As Program Coordinators we hear a lot of different questionsfrom participants who have major depression, so wehave gone straight to the source to get answers from anexperienced and knowledgeable doctor. Dr. Sanjay Mathewis the Mood Disorders Center Director and AssociateProfessor at Baylor College of Medicine’s MenningerDepartment of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

Program Coordinators(PCs): A question we hear oftenfrom participants who have majordepression is, can I get off my medication(s) or will I have to beon them for life?

Dr. Mathew (Dr. M): Thisissue comes up a lot. Patients have

difficulty with this concept, so we don’t use the expression“rest of life” because we don’t know what might emerge inthe future with pharmacotherapy or new medications. Wetry to use the least amount of medication and reassess themedication plan at least once a year. Of course we see thepatient more often for medication checks, but we will atleast reassess medication once a year if it is not neededbefore then. Other factors also influence the physician’srecommendation regarding medication, including physicalailments. There is a correlation between depression andother chronic recurrent illnesses such as diabetes, and itis possible with drastic lifestyle changes to cope with theillness without medications. Research has shown thatchanges in lifestyle can change the brain chemistry,specifically psychotherapy (talk therapy) that affects thesame circuits in the brain that medication does. So there isa biological effect from non-pharmacological approaches.However, this still needs to be recommended and monitoredby a psychiatrist.PCs:We hear participants asking in group about takingsupplements in addition to or instead of psychotropic medication. What would you say about using supplementssuch as St. John’s Wort to treat major depression?

DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org 1

INSIDE THIS ISSUEDr. Mathew Interview 1&6 Ask the Doctor 5Treasures out of the Darkness 1&9 DBSA Upcoming Events 5President’s Column 2 Support Groups 7&8Facilitator Awards 3 Donors 10&11Coping in College 4 Recognize Symptoms 12

Dr. Sanjay Mathew

continued on page 9

continued on page 6 Please note: DBSA Greater Houston is referred to as “DBSA” in this publication.

Pastor JuanitaCampbell Rasmus

The year 2010 has been passing very quickly. We are in theprocess of planning for the next two years, and it is a timefor contemplating our vision for this dynamic and growingorganization. As a practicing psychologist at the Universityof Houston, I would often use a therapeutic exercise withmy college student clients who were having trouble over-coming immediate obstacles in order to create a futurethat was not completely clear to them. I would ask themto close their eyes and imagine that they had awakened toa personal world that was just the way they wanted it. Itwould not incorporate changing problematic persons intheir lives, but rather how they would be changed and howthey would be experiencing life. It proved to be helpful tomany students because they were able to see past theirimmediate problems to a vision of their personal goals.

How does this exercise applyto DBSA? I engaged in such avision exercise because, as agrowing agency, we are oftencoping with financial constraintsas well as the need for handlingthe necessary details of runningan agency. Following a budget,searching for new officespace, raising the necessaryincome and constantly confirm-ing that all groups are staffedand operating can consumemost of our time. If I were towake up in a world in whichDBSA was able to realize itsvision, here are just a few of the hopeful things I wouldsee. They are not in order of importance because they areall extremely important.

One of my visions is for adolescents throughout Houston toreceive the help and support they need to cope with oftenundiagnosed depression or bipolar disorder before their illness causes them to commit crimes or act in other self-destructive ways. We have begun our work by establishingsupport groups in several school locations through a partnership with Communities in Schools. We are only hitting the tip of the iceberg as far as the number ofschools that need us. I was surprised to find out how manydiagnosed cases of depression and bipolar disorder thereare in Houston’s high schools.

In my second vision, I see veterans returning from war to

2 DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org

President’s Column find DBSA support accessible to them.Again, we have one group, whichhas a high attendance rate, but myvision contains many more of thesegroups that would address the invisible wounds of the men andwomen who have risked their lives forus. Depression is a common result of the physical injuries,as well as head injuries and post traumatic stress disorder(PTSD).

As a third vision, I see corporations in Houston being tunedinto the mental health problems of their employees as aresult of DBSA’s success at reaching out and educatingboth executives and employees about depression andbipolar disorder. Mentally healthy employees do not experience as many physical illnesses and can actually

increase the bottom line. Corporationswould want their personnel to behelped and would have referral programs established to directemployees to DBSA’s free supportgroups. They would also help shoulder the expense of running

support groups by contributingto the cause.

And finally, I envision a stigma-free community where anyonecould receive treatment andbe regarded no differently thansomeone with heart diseaseor some other physical illness.

Included in this vision is the projected successof DBSA’s public education efforts about mental

illness. We are planning to increase our work in this vitalarea, and we will be using all our marketing efforts to realize this dream. Our existing support groups address thestigma problem, and many participants find strength tospeak out and help others. I envision a giant leap in publicunderstanding and acceptance.

It is up to all of us – board, staff, donors, facilitators andparticipants – to help make these visions a reality. Thereare many obstacles, but if we can move past them, wecan save lives. DBSA will need to make important changesto meet the challenges, but I am confident that we canwork together to make our organization a positive forcefor the future.

~ Jan Redford, Ph.D. ~ 2010 Board President

DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org 3

Facilitator Awards

Each year, DBSA honors volunteerfacilitators with two special awards –“Rookie of the Year” and “The BigHeart Award.” Danny Sage wasawarded the “Rookie of the Year”award at the May VolunteerFacilitator Appreciation Luncheon.Danny has been facilitating since2009, when he wastrained as a facilitatorand very quickly tookon the role of LeadFacilitator at theCypress location.Danny is a very dedicated facilitatorand has done anamazing job of lead-ing and growing thegroup. He often asksto keep his groupopen when wewould usually closeduring the Holidays. Danny attendstrainings for continuing educationon a regular basis and sets a greatexample for other facilitators. Weare very appreciative of Danny’s commitment and service to DBSA.

Also at the Volunteer FacilitatorAppreciation Luncheon, Jim Rice wasawarded the “The Big Heart Award.”

Jim has been facilitating groups since2008. He also went on to obtainadvanced training in peer facilitationthrough DBSA National and earnedthe distinction of Certified PeerSpecialist. Jim currently facilitatesthree groups for DBSA, including theDowntown, Galleria and Braeswoodlocations.

Jim is a very passionate facilitatorand creates a feeling of warmth andempathy in his groups. Jim alsohelps DBSA train new facilitatorsand helps fight stigma by being partof community presentations. Jim is avital part of the organization and weare thankful to have his passion andgenerosity.

2010 BOARD OF DIRECTORSJan Redford, Ph.D., PresidentWill Penland, President ElectFred Dunlop, Past PresidentGary Levering, President EmeritusLinda Condon, SecretaryMartin Debrovner, TreasurerBolivar C. AndrewsMargaret BandyClyde BuckEd CappelCynthia GuillDon HaleyMartha Hanson, Ph.D.Brett HoganEvelyn JewellKeith KimmickPeggy Landrum, Ph.D.Elke LaughlinWells McGeeStephanie McGrawCarleton McHenryCarol Ann PaddockRonda G. RobinsonPeggy RoeBill RudolfPhyllis SelberLynda UnderwoodRichard B. WaltersTed WeissMarie Wise

2010 ADVISORY BOARDFlo McGee, ChairBruce ArendaleJim BraniffCat ChapmanReverend Linda ChristiansLois E. DavisJohn EadsJim GasperMaureen HackettEvangelina Hammonds, LCSW, CTSTim HoranMarjorie Bintliff JohnsonDick KildayGranville “Fella” KnightCarolyn LightFranna LittonB. D. McAndrewEd McCulloughOlivia McGillSandra McHenryMarcie Mir Tipton, LCSWVicki MontagueRobert PaddockWalt ParmerJohn PipkinJuanita RasmusHoward SchrammGeorge A. Shannon Jr.Doug SwansonLene Symes, Ph.D.Vivian Wise

MEDICAL ADVISORSSusan Backes, M.D.John W. Burruss, M.D.James Lomax, M.D.Sanjay Mathew, M.D.Jair Soares, M.D.Andrea Stolar, M.D.

Jim Rice and Danny Sage

“Facilitators are a message of hope.” ~ DBSA Group Participant

“DBSA has been very positive for me.I need the meetings as part of my therapy.

~ DBSA Group Participant

“DBSA is invaluable. Excellent resource.It saved my life.” ~ DBSA Group Participant

“I’m here for my son; 16 – he still struggles, but Inow know how I can best help him.” ~ DBSA Group Participant

4 DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org

Coping in CollegeArticle from Esperanza magazine – By Robin L. Flanigan

Survival 101: Get HelpWhen the stress of college life brings on depression andanxiety, students too often struggle in secret.

College was difficult for Megan H. Depression and anxietyset in during her sophomore year at Northeastern Universityin Boston, when she was assigned to live with three room-mates. Already coping with coursework and the rigors oflife at a large university, she couldn’t adjust to sharingclose quarters with virtual strangers.

She moved to her own apartment after a few months, butshe didn’t have a lot of friends and living off-campus madeher feel even more isolated socially.

By junior year, she was routinely crying for no obvious reason. She experienced chestpains that radiated down her arm,sending her to the hospital. Shestarted taking antidepressants prescribed by her primary carephysician, but with no psychiatristto monitor her dosage she stoppedtaking the pills.

In her senior year, with graduationlooming, stress sent her into adepressive episode that lastedabout three months.

“I don’t think most college students are prepared for whatcollege life is like when they get there,” Megan says. “Youhave to balance all these different aspects of your life andit becomes overwhelming.”

Heading off to college can be exciting, but life on campuscan also be a complete culture shock. It’s a time of learninghow to be independent, balancing academic and socialpressures, juggling new relationships, and warding offhomesickness while figuring out a direction in life.

On top of all that, the college years fall smack in the middleof a vulnerable period for developing depression. Accordingto the University of Michigan Depression Center, research

shows that the peak years for onset of depression symptomsrun from the early teens through the mid-20s – and stressis a primary trigger.

“College is a breeding ground for depression,” says KateHarkness, PhD, a certified psychologist whose research atQueen’s University in Ontario focuses on major depressionin adults and adolescents. “The transition can be too muchfor some students.

“They come in with concerns about homesickness andnot being able to find friends, and it tends to snowball.Then that gets coupled with having to adapt to a differentacademic setting – no one’s telling them what to do, so theyhave to be more independent. A lot of times they crash.”

When symptoms of depression and anxiety set in, it’s easyto think that no one else feels the same way. Students maybe too embarrassed to seek help, unaware that on-campus

counseling centers deal confidentiallywith similar issues every single day.

Inertia can be a barrier as well.

“With class schedules, social activities, and other pressing priorities, resistance to treatmentfor depression and anxiety is mostlypassive,” says the University ofMichigan’s Daniel Eisenberg, PhD,principal investigator of the HealthyMinds Study, an annual survey that

examines mental health issues among U.S. college students.“They’re just putting off taking care of themselves.”

Yet the consequences of untreated depression and anxietyare serious, ranging from poor grades to dropping out ofschool to even more serious outcomes. In the United States,suicide is the third-leading cause of death among peopleages 15 to 24, according to the American Foundation forSuicide Prevention.

That’s one reason it’s vital to learn about the help that’savailable from colleges, student groups and off-campusprofessionals – and to muster the courage to reach outfor it.

Please help us reduce printing and postage costs by signing up to receive MoodPoints via email only.Send an email to dbsahouston@dbsahouston.org with “email me MoodPoints” in the subject line.

Check out our new website www.dbsahouston.org, and be sure to follow the links on the website to join us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

2010 Events

Since the last publication of MoodPoints in May, DBSA hascontinued to give a number of public presentations onmood disorders and the services offered by the organiza-tion. We also participated in a wide array of communityevents in an effort to spread the word about DBSA servic-es to the Houston community.

Some of the public speaking engagements have included:

5/14 Managing Depression and the Workplace to the staffof Children Protective Services

5/26 The Services of DBSA to the staff of Cheyenne Center

7/13 The Services of DBSA to AIDS Foundation (residentsand staff)

7/29 The Services of DBSA to The Forum for Seniors(residents and staff)

8/16 Seniors and Depression to Neighborhood Centers (staff)

9/2 The Services of DBSA to Krause Treatment Center (staff)

Some of the health fairs that DBSA has participated inhave included:

5/25 United Way Interagency Networking Conference

6/26 National Alliance for Research on Schizophreniaand Depression (NARSAD) Conference

8/11 United Way Interagency Provider Fair

Upcoming events include:

10/8–10/10 National Association of Social Workers

10/12AARP presentation of DBSA Senior Services

11/4 HCGP presentation of The Services of DBSA

11/6 Suicide Prevention Walk

11/16 Houston Community College, Coleman Campuspresentation of The Services of DBSA

DOCTOR

DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org 5

influenced by one’s genetic inheritance. I think the questioner’s description of a “touch” of bipolar probablyrepresents the subthreshold (less drastic highs andlows) description of bipolar II with it’s more rapid cyclingof mood.

It’s difficult without knowing an individual to say whetherbipolar II is a diagnosis for life, as the above diagnostic dilemma describes. Medication forboth bipolar I and bipolar II disorders can belifesaving and lessen the severity of sufferingcaused by the often debilitating mood swings.Life stressors and situational difficulties

contribute to the need for treatment, both throughmedication and supportive and cognitive therapy.Remember, especially here, that one size does not fit all.The best outcome stems from a highly individualizedplan made between patient and physician, followed bygood treatment.

~ Dr. Susan Backes ~ DBSA Medical Advisor

I’d like to address several questions about bipolar Iand bipolar II diagnoses. One concerned the treatmentand prognosis of a bipolar II diagnosis and the other,commented on being told that a family member had a“touch” of bipolar and wondering if claims of a curewere possible.

The psychiatric community through the DSM hasmade efforts to classify psychiatric disordersin order to communicate among physiciansand reimbursers the aspects of diagnosesthat could be thought of as standard. Mooddisorders such as bipolar I and bipolar II, asmany other diagnoses, are often really differentpoints on a spectrum. Certainly there is much overlap inboth the symptoms and the treatment; and much debateon where one person’s condition belongs. To make thingseven more complicated, often a similar continuum existsbetween bipolar II and some personality disorders. Whenwe hear the term bipolar disorder, it sometimes helps tothink of it as a malfunctioning mood thermostat, often

Ask the

Medicationfor both bipolar and

bipolar II disorders canbe lifesaving and lessenthe severity of suffering

caused by the oftendebilitating mood

swings.

6 DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org

Interview with Sanjay Mathew– continued from page 1

Dr. M: It’s a very broad category and we try to learn abouteach supplement. St. John’s Wort has good research data thatfor mild depression it can be an effective treatment if it is usedin the correct dose and produced by a reliable manufacturer.This method still needs to be monitored by a doctor becauseSt. John’s Wort does have the risk of drug-to-drug interactions.Omega-3 fatty acids are another common supplement used, butagain need to be monitored with the right dose and manufacturer.Doctors need to know everything the patient is on, including supplements, so they need to be asking and not ignore the information because the supplements do have effects.

PCs: A big concern that we hear in groups is people talkingabout treatment-resistant depression. What new advances arethere in the mental health field related to medication or treatmentmodalities such as talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy?

Dr. M: Current research is emphasizing early onset ofresponse or acting quickly to treat. There is interest in lookingat treatments that can help within a week or a couple of daysas opposed to the current 4-6 weeks for commonly used anti-depressants. We are looking at intravenous medication suchas ketamine, scopolamine, and glutamatergic medications.Ketamine is an old drug that is used as a calming agent thatworks in the glutamate system (area in your brain). Researchersare testing its use for depression. This is congruent with theresearch on specific gene variance. Ketamine blocks the samesystem in the brain that alcohol does. Everyone’s genotype orindividual genetic code can respond differently to Ketamine justlike it does to alcohol. There are practitioners in Houston thatoffer Ketamine in a private practice setting, but it’s off-label (notdistributed by a major drug company), experimental and not yetapproved by the FDA. It should be administered and monitoredby an anesthesiologist. Currently, research is trying to catch upwith community practice.

The second area of research is co-administration of medication(more than one medication at the same time) from the verybeginning of treatment. Research is showing some support tostart two antidepressants at the same time in the beginninginstead of just one, which might result in a quicker recovery anda better long-term outcome.

The third critical area of research is preventing relapse. Doctorsare good at helping the initial episode but not good at preventingrelapse in the future, especially after ECT (electroconvulsivetherapy); the rates are very high in the first month after success-ful ECT. Therefore, research is focusing on maintenance of suc-cess since these are chronic recurring illnesses. Combination ofenvironment stressors and the biology of illness are factors inrelapse. If you have a vulnerable genotype, this can also put youat more risk during crisis or other stressors.

PCs: Are we getting good at predicting relapse?Dr. M: No, but we do know risk factors such as prior relapse,lack of social support, family history, poor coping strategies, andpersonality characteristics… like high anxiety or neuroticism.

PCs:We are seeing a lot more participants with more than onediagnosis. For example, they might be diagnosed with depression

and a personality disorder. How do you think this co-morbidity(co-occurring illnesses) affects their recovery?

Dr. M: It is a risk factor for relapse into a depressive or manicepisode. It’s hard to distinguish between the personality factorsand the actual mood disorder. There is a lot of evidence thatAxis II disorders such as personality disorders make the positiverecovery outcome more difficult. However, it is not hopelessbecause we have specific treatments for these disorders suchas borderline personality disorders. Treating the personality disorder directly can help with recovery.

PCs: If someone was previously diagnosed with seasonalaffective disorder but is not presenting with symptoms more con-gruent with major depression, how do you go about treatment?

Dr. M: First you want to rule out psychosocial stressors suchas grief. Then look at treatment; if they respond to light therapyin the winter they might also be responsive in the summer. Also,light therapy can be helpful for non-seasonal depressions. Thefirst thing to look at would be light therapy, and then talk therapy,and finally medications. The effect of light therapy has beenshown to be as effective as some anti-depressants. Patientswould not be deemed treatment-resistant until they have triedand ruled out light therapy.

PCs: If you have a patient in your office that is willing to listento all your recommendations, what does optimal treatment looklike for you?

Dr. M: First, the doctor needs to clarify the diagnosis and get agood family history. It’s important to spend time working on theactual diagnosis and look at all the symptoms over a longer peri-od of time. We need to answer the question, what exactly are wetreating? Look at other possible impacts such as physical ail-ments, substance abuse, diabetes, nutrition status, exercisehabits, and weight. We need to know if they use OTC (over-the-counter) medications such as Tylenol or Benadryl too much.Also, are they using Xanax abusively or inappropriately? It is vitalto talk to family members about early childhood problems suchas characteristics of ADD or ADHD.* The best scenario is tohave the family involved in the process of diagnosis and treat-ment. Diagnosis needs to be based on a timeline of information,not just what is seen in the office setting. Also, it’s important notto rush to either overtreat or inappropriately treat.

*In the case of bipolar disorder, you miss the boat if you don’ttalk to the family because a bipolar person will often times notreport instances of feeling good. Bipolar starts very early, oftenin the teenage years.

PCs: Is there anything else going on in the mental health fieldright now that you think people with major depression need to beaware of?

Dr. M: There are a number of interventions being studied rightnow that will provide hope for patients who haven’t responded toother treatments in the past. This is an exciting time for research.There will be some great breakthroughs in the next decade.There is a lot of commitment from the Government, the NationalInstitute on Drug Abuse, private foundations and individualdonors to help fund research for these disorders. Houston is agreat place to be at this time because it is at the lead of thisresearch.

DBSA Greater Houston – Free Support GroupsGroups listed as of 9/15/10. Some group locations have more than one group meeting at the indicated time.

Veterans Group – 7pmVA Domiciliary7329 Fannin, 77030Open to vets and their family members only

THURSDAY

Inner Loop Adult – Thursday, 7 pmSt. Luke’s United Methodist Church3471Westheimer, 77027Chapel ParlorMontrose Adult – Thursday, 7 pmEcclesia Church2115 Taft Street, 77006Upstairs LoftNorth Houston/1960 Adult –Thursday, 7:30 pmBammel Church of Christ2700 FM 1960 West, 77068Ministry BuildingSpanish Speaking Adult –Thurs., 9 amSpanish Speaking Adult –Thurs., 5:30 pmEastwood Clinic412 Telephone, 77023(corner of Polk/Lockwood)Windsor Village Adult – Thursday, 7 pmWindsor Village United Methodist Church6000 Heatherbrook, 77085New Member Room

SATURDAY

Medical Center Adult – Saturday, 10 amIntracare Hospital7601 Fannin, 77054

BAYTOWNThursday, 7 pmGrace United Methodist Church304 N. Pruett Street, 77520, Room 104

CLEAR LAKEThursday, 7 pmCarole & Ronald Krist Samaritan Centerfor Counseling & Education17555 El Camino Real, 77058, Retreat Rm.

CYPRESSSunday, 6 pm – Cypress Bible Church11711 Cypress N. Houston Road, 77429Cabin B

FRIENDSWOODMonday, 7 pmAdolescent & Parent GroupsFriendswood United Methodist Church110 N. Friendswood Dr., 77546Adolescents (13–17): Room E204Parents: Room E208

KATYTuesday, 7 pmKaty AdultSt. Peters United Methodist Church20775 Kingsland Blvd., 77450, Rm. S-209Tuesday, 7 pmKaty Young Adult (ages 18–30)St. Peters United Methodist Church20775 Kingsland Blvd., 77450, Rm S-212

KINGWOODMonday, 7 pmKingwood United Methodist Church1799 Woodland Hills Dr., 77339, Room K105

MISSOURI CITYThursday, 7 pmFirst United Methodist Church3900 Lexington Blvd., 77459Chapel Parlor

PASADENAWednesday, 6:30 pmAsbury United Methodist Church5354 Space Center Blvd.Pasadena, 77505Community Room

PEARLANDWednesday, 7 pmFirst United Methodist Church, Pearland2314 North Grand Blvd., 77581Bethel Building Room 203

RICHMONDTuesday, 7 pmFirst Baptist Church502 South 5th Street, 77469Parlor Room

TOMBALLWednesday, 7 pmTomball United Methodist Church1603 Baker, 77375Faith Building, Room FB 10 & 12

THE WOODLANDSTuesday, 7 pmThe Woodlands Adolescentand Parent GroupsChrist Church United Methodist Church6363 Research Forest, 77381Parents: M102Adolescents (13–17): M204Tuesday, 7:30 pmThe Woodlands Adult GroupChrist Church United Methodist Church6363 Research Forest, 77381Room M206Support Groups – continued on page 8

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Groups Open to the Public

HOU STON

MONDAYBraeswood Adult – Monday, 7 pmJewish Family Service4131 S. Braeswood Blvd., 77025Library

Medical Center Adult – Monday, 7 pmIntracare Hospital, 7601 Fannin, 77054

TUESDAY

Caregivers Group–Tuesday, 6:30 pmSt. Luke’s United Methodist Church3471 Westheimer, 77027Room: C262

Mid-Town Adult – Tuesday, 6:30 pmSt. John’s Church2019 Crawford, 77002Room: 214Piney Point Adult – Tuesday, 7 pmChapelwood United Methodist Church11140 Greenbay, 77024Room: W204

Young Adults (ages 18–30) –Tuesday, 7 pmChapelwood United Methodist Church11140 Greenbay, 77024Room: W104

Southwest Adult – Tuesday, 7:30 pmWest Oaks Hospital6500 Hornwood, 77074

WEDNESDAYDowntown Adult – Wednesday, 12 noonChrist Church CathedralJohn S. Dunn Building, 1212 Prairie, 77002Room B

Galleria Adult – Wednesday, 7 pmSt. Martin’s Episcopal Church717 Sage Road, 77056Community Room

Seniors Group–Wednesday, 2 pmWest University Community Center6104 Auden, 77005Senior Services Room

Westchase Adult – Wednesday, 12 noonFirst Methodist Houston Westchase3663 Westcenter Drive, 77042Youth Building, Room 114

Westchase Adult – Wednesday, 7 pmFirst Methodist Houston Westchase10570 Westpark, 77042Wesley Academy, Room 140

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Resources

Counseling Resources

Ben Taub IntensiveOutpatient Program 713-873-2000

Bering Support Network 713-526-1017(offers individual, family, andcouples therapy for $25 flat rate)

Catholic Charities 713-526-4611(free or sliding scale)

Center for Creative Resources 713-461-7599(provides multi-level resources forpeople of all economic backgrounds,including a Low Cost Clinic)

The Council on Alcoholand Drugs Houston 713-942-4100(dual diagnosis – substance abuseand mental illness) assessment,counseling and referral

Counseling Connectionsfor Change, LCC (Pearland) 281-485-9280

DePelchin Children’s Center(sliding scale, Medicaid) 713-730-2335

Family Services of Greater Houston(sliding scale, Medicaid) 713-861-4849

Houston Psychiatric Services 713-486-2525(some Medicare and Medicaid)

Interface-Samaritan Counseling Center(sliding scale counseling) 713-626-7990

Jewish Family Services 713-667-9336(sliding scale, Medicare)

MHMRA Eligibility Center 713-970-7000(financial and clinical eligibilityfor psychiatric evaluation andmedication management)

UH Psychological Research and Services(sliding scale counseling) 713-743-8600

Emergency AssistanceCrisis Hotline –Suicide Prevention 713-468-5463

MHMRA Emergency Line 713-970-7000

NeuroPsychiatric Center 713-970-4600(MHMRA Crisis Clinic)

United Way Helpline 211

National SuicidePrevention Hotline 800-273-TALKwww.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Free or Reduced Cost MedsPartnership for Prescription Assistancewww.pparx.org 888-477-2669indicates the requirements of allpatient assistance med programs

Free Medicine Foundation 573-996-3333www.freemedicine.com

NeedyMeds www.needymeds.com

Together RX Access 800-444-4106www.TogetherRXAccess.com

Internet ResourcesDBSA Greater Houstonwww.dbsahouston.org

Depression and BipolarSupport Alliance (National)www.dbsalliance.org

McMan’s Depression and Bipolar Webwww.mcmanweb.com

The Reawakening Centerwww.reawake.com

Resources for Families on TreatingDepression in Children and Adolescentswww.ParentsMedGuide.org

University of Michigan Depression Centerwww.med.umich.edu/depression

Misc. Community ResourcesDisability Bus Pass 713-739-6968(Customer service) 713-658-0180

The Gathering Place 713-729-3499(provides a supportive environment for adultswith severe and persistent mental illness)

Gold Card Eligibility 713-715-2800(press 1 for info., then code number 1103)

The Menninger Clinic 713-275-5000

St. Joseph House 713-523-5958(day center for people with mental illnesses)

Texas Insur. Risk Pool 888-398-3927(health insur. if you’re “uninsurable”)www.txhealthpool.org

Texas Department of Agingand Disability Services 800-252-9240

Other Support Groups

ADDA (Attention DeficitDisorders Assoc.) 281-897-0982Southern Region – www.adda-sr.org

Al-Anon Family Group Service 713-683-7227

Alcoholics Anonymous 713-686-6300

Borderline Personality 281-300-3837(for family members)

Depression Anonymous 713-541-6685(meets at West Oaks Hospital,Wed. at 7:30, call M. Patterson)

Mental Health America 713-522-5161

NAMI Fort Bend 281-494-5193

NAMI Metro Houston 713-970-4419www.namimetrohouston.org

NAMI Texas (NationalAlliance on Mental Illness) 800-633-3760www.namitexas.org

NAMI West Houston 713-984-2538or www.namiwesthouston.org

National Education Alliance forBorderline Personality Disorderwww.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.com

Palmer Drug Abuse Program 281-589-4602

Please verifytimes andlocationsby visitingour websitewww.dbsahouston.org or calling713-600-1131.

DBSA support groups provide the kindof sharing and caring that is crucial for alifetime of wellness, but support groupsare not a substitute for professional care.

Closed Support GroupsFor people receiving services at a particular agency.

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOLTuesday – Closed GroupCONTEMPORARY LEARNING CENTER

HIGH SCHOOLTBD – Closed Group

COVENANT HOUSE TEXASThursday – Closed Group

DISCOVER PROGRAMWednesday – Closed Group

GATHERING PLACEThursday – Closed Group

HARRIS COUNTY JAILTBD – Closed Group

JESTER PRISON UNITSunday – Closed GroupWednesday – Closed Group

LAMAR HIGH SCHOOLWednesday – Closed Group

RAMSEY PRISON UNITTBD – Closed Group

REAGAN HIGH SCHOOLTuesday – Closed Group

THE WOMEN’S HOMETuesday – Closed Group

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DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org 9

enough to be aware of my family’s coming and going andto nurse my ravenous hunger. I found myself thinking that ifI could just get enough sleep I could shake this off.

The Sunday before that fateful day, which we affectionatelycall “the crash,” ironically I had preached a sermon on theneed to seek balance and renewal. I pointed to the biblicalmodel of creation, how God illustrates that balance in hissix days of work and resting on the seventh. In retrospectI had not lived a life of balance, boundaries or renewal.I believe “the crash” was the evidence of that.

An incredible psychiatrist, whofirst suggested I see my primaryphysician to rule out other illnessesthat mimic depression, aided theroad to recovery. She helped meselect the antidepressant that mightbe most effective and have thefewest side effects. She put a nameto the panic attacks I had beenexperiencing as bouts of fear andanxiety. She was careful to questionwhether I had experienced any suicidal thoughts. I was diagnosedthat day with a major depressiveepisode. I walked away with a prescription and hope. Now I knewwhat was wrong and could beginto focus on healing instead of thegloom that comes with not knowing.

I got help finding a therapist, andI couldn’t have asked for a better person. He had beena clergyperson and in his retirement became a Jungian analyst. He knew my challenges were not just physicaland mental but spiritual as well, and he helped me take aholistic approach.

My lack of concentration left me unable to access myusual tools of hope and support. I couldn’t pray or studythe scriptures that meant most to me in times of crisis. Andmy memory was shot. Early in the depression I was givena scripture to encourage me – Isaiah, chapter 45, verse 3a:“I will give you the treasures out of the darkness.” Thatpromise helped me hold on. I believe that our challengesare our teachers. I decided to learn all I could from thisexperience.

Over time I realized that depression was anger turnedinward, so I began to address my anger. I had some beliefsthat no longer served me well as an adult. I had to learn touse my “no” muscle and say no to things that drained me. Ilearned that in order to love my neighbor as myself I firsthad to embark upon loving myself. I had to let go of prideand learn to ask for help when I needed it, no matter howsimple the task. I made healthier meal choices and drankmore water to lubricate my brain cells, which no doubtwere depleted by caffeine and sodas. I learned that I’m anintrovert who had lived as an extrovert and I had to stop

wearing the mask. I began to learnhow to live in the moment. I stoppedwearing a watch and began tohonor the moment rather thanincessantly being driven by thenext thing on the agenda. I beganlearning how to “be” in a worldobsessed by doing. I invest a gooddeal of time now in prayer and various forms of meditation includingwalking meditations (calledLabyrinths). I am cultivating innerpeace, and my life is very different.

Proper diagnosis, medication,talk therapy and a loving support network are invaluable to me.I have a few people who holdme accountable to my need forself-care, and they are cherishedgems cultivated out of the darkness

of my depression. God had promised me that I would begiven treasures out of the darkness, and God helped meto mine them.

Treasures out of the Darkness– continued from page 1

Juanita Campbell Rasmus co-pastors St. John’s DowntownChurch along with her husband Rudy. St. John’s is home toover 9000 members – 3000 or which are, or were, homeless.A DBSA support group is curently operating at the church.

Juanita and Rudy have two adult daughters, both with undergraduate degrees in psychology. Juanita is presentlyworking on her first book Learning How to Be in a Do-DoWorld – it chronicles her journey to find inner peace in anoften chaotic world.

10 DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org

We are truly grateful to thefollowing donors whose giftsand pledges make DBSAsupport groups possible.

Donations received from5/4/10 – 9/15/10

Visionary$10,000 and above

The Brown Foundation, Inc.John S. Dunn Research FoundationHouston Endowment Inc.Jo Ann and Gary LeveringJack H. and William M. Light Charitable

Trust/Carolyn and David LightM.D. Anderson FoundationRuth Jones MacDonald Charitable TrustThe West Endowment

Benefactor$5,000 – 9,999

Albert and Ethel Herzstein CharitableFoundation

Kiwanis Foundation of HoustonWilliam and Madeline Smith

FoundationWilliam and Marie Wise Family

Foundation

Motivator$2,500 – 4,999

AnonymousEric Gleacher FoundationCynthia and Ben GuillRosemary A. JablonowskiBill Rudolf

Friend $1,000 – 2,499Stanford and Joan Alexander

FoundationMissy and Ron BandyCommunity Health CharitiesBrenda and John DuncanHarriet and Joe FosterFrank and Carol GruenElaine and Fella KnightSusan Holderness and Kenneth LedfordJanice Dougall MelcherSteven and Sheila Miller FoundationStrake Foundation

Supporter $1 – 999Anonymous (5)Avery Alcorn, George and Libby AlcornJerry Johnston AndrewMr. and Mrs. Bolivar C. AndrewsLucy G. ArnoldRobert BachmanJohn Bailey

Susan and Edward BaumannDoug and Sheryl BechDiana Minevich and Brad BehringerRobert I. BowersAnnie BowlerMr. and Mrs. Roy E. Box Jr.Bernard and Sheila BrancaMatthew BrinkDavid S. BrollierBecky and Jean BrownMr. and Mrs. Philip BurguieresMichael, Duncan, James, Ginger

and David CarringtonCathy CaseyDr. and Mrs. John CaudillVivien and Scott CavenBetsy HallAl and Jean ChernoskySusan E. ChristianNancy and Taylor CookseyMorgan and Pat CopelandDiana CornellJodene CornelsonTee CouchJohn J. Crossin and Lindsay Crossin

McCownEmily and Holcombe CrosswellD’Agostino Salon/Mary T. ValenciaThe DALKYS FoundationTerry and Mike DaltonDBSA NationalAudrey DillonPaul DoyleThe Duff Family – Cheryl, Brad,

Bradley, Gerry and GretchenRobert DuncanJoan and David DunlapJackie and Fred DunlopThe Elmer FamilyJudy and Charlie EppsPam and Jimmy ErwinNancy and Pete EtheridgeEric FariaAnne F. Flanagan, John C. Flanagan IIBarbara FosdickEllie and Michael FranciscoTwilight and Marc ErwinAnne and Robin FrenchBud and Cherryll FrickMartha Neil and Bobby GamblinLynn and Jary GlazerJudith A. GrafLindsay, Tripp and Sadie GriffinJoanie and Don HaleyMichael HallDr. and Mrs. Carlos Hamilton, Jr.Evangelina Hammonds, LCSWMaybell and Virgil HarrisDenise and Charles HazenCarol and John HeidemanMiriam and Chuck Hendee

Sharon and Jim HibbertJoan and Coleman HightowerGayle and Richard HightowerStephanie and George HilliardTrisha HillmanCindy and Jim HintonPam and Chuck HolmNina JacksonEvelyn and Bob JewellJohn W. and Ann K. Johnson

Foundation, Inc.Roy and Sharon JonesSultana Kaldis and FamilyRosemary and Ronald KallinenCelia KantorJulie and Jim KeenanElizabeth A. KelleySally, Walker and John KernsCarol and Chuck Kingswell-SmithLinda and Fred Knapp, Jr.KrogerL.R. French, IIIMaurine LeeThe Leonard Family – Michael, Colette

and DavidBritt LevyLittle Keswick SchoolFranna and Ted LittonMargene and Bill LloydLocke Lord Bissell and Liddell LLPThe Lookout FoundationMr. and Mrs. Francisco A. LorenzoKathy and Jeff LoveRobbie and Jim LowreyCynthia Sprague and Paul LyonsDonna and Larry MaddoxCarol MalloyEileen Smith and Daniel MarichalSusan and Thomas MartinCatherine MarziottiKathleen and James McCloskeyPatricia McConnicoMr. and Mrs. Frederick McCordMr. and Mrs. Ed McCulloughDorothy and Thomas McDadeStephanie McGrawMaribel S. McLearyArline and Harvey MelzerKenny MeyerMatha and Bill MiltonMr. and Mrs. John H. Monroe, Jr.Paula MorzentiGayle MurchisonPriya NathThe Neilson Family – Skip, Nancy,

Erica, AnnieHoward and Joan NelsonMr. and Mrs. Richard Nelson, Jr.Matt NewtownThe Next Level FitnessMai Anh Nguyen, M.D., P.A.

DBSA Donors

MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Greater Houston (DBSA)

is to sponsor free support groups that assist in the recovery of individualswith depression or bipolar disorder.

William and Stephanie NolanNorthern TrustPat, Barbie, Chris and Tricia O’ConnellSandy and Mike O’ConnorWilliam C. OehmigKimberly and Travis OverallCrystal OwensMr. and Mrs. Robert PaddockEdith and Walt ParmerJudge and Mrs. E.H. Patton, Jr.Gayle PearsonJo Ann PetersenMary and Larry PetersonKathy and Harry PhillipsKathy and Phillip PierceThe Ploetz FamilySusan and Bob PohlPatsy PowellTy and Peggy PuckettDiane and Ben RobertsFranelle RogersLiz and Matt RotanClifford RudolphMr. and Mrs. James RuthSharmila Rudrappa and Jeffrey

SalamonSusan Lupton and Bob SchallRufus and Kay SchmidtAnn and Howard SchrammThomas D. and Katherine E.M.

Schroeder FundTerri and Joseph SchwartzPhyllis and Jack SelberVanessa and Perry SendukasSheri and Steve Scott and Emilie

and David WallaceMary and Jake SilversteinJoan SivalonRuth Skelton and FamilyRoberta and David SmithJudy & Jim SpringerBrian SweanyLene and Bill SymesWilliam and Myrna ThiessenTim, Sharon and Taylor ThrockmortonUnion BankUnited WayMr. and Mrs. Richard ViebigKelly WalbergDorothy and Hall WebbLeslie & Sandy WeinerTetine and Chip WerleinCarlton WildeMr. and Mrs. James WinnArdis WipfJack WomackMrs. Loyd A. WrightTommye and George ZennerNancy and Robert Zimmerman

DBSA � MoodPoints � Fall/Winter 2010 � www.dbsahouston.org 11

In Honor ofErika

Eric FariaEd Cappel

Missy and Ron BandyFred Dunlop

AnonymousMissy and Ron BandyLindsay, Tripp and Sadie Griffin

Jo Ann and Gary LeveringJohn W. and Ann K. JohnsonFoundation, Inc.Janice Dougall MelcherSteven and Sheila Miller Foundation

Franna LittonMissy and Ron Bandy

Piney Point DBSA groupKelly Walberg

Jan RedfordMissy and Ron BandyMr. and Mrs. Roy E. Box Jr.

Elizabeth J. StyersRosemary A. Jablonowski

Ted WeissDorothy and Hall Webb

In Memory ofAaron Chernosky

Al and Jean ChernoskyTripp Cooke

Jo Ann and Gary LeveringJim Elkins

Donna and Larry MaddoxWill Erwin

Jerry Johnston AndrewMr. and Mrs. Bolivar C. AndrewsLucy G. ArnoldJohn BaileySusan and Edward BaumannDiana Minevich and BradBehringerBernard and Sheila BrancaDavid S. BrollierBecky and Jean BrownDr. and Mrs. John CaudillVivien and Scott CavenNancy and Taylor CookseyMorgan and Pat CopelandTee CouchJohn J. Crossin and LindsayCrossin McCownEmily and Holcombe CrosswellThe DALKYS Foundation

Audrey DillonPaul DoyleThe Duff Family – Cheryl, Brad,Bradley, Gerry and GretchenRobert DuncanJoan and David DunlapJackie and Fred DunlopThe Elmer FamilyJudy and Charlie EppsAnne F. Flanagan,

John C. Flanagan IIBarbara FosdickEllie and Michael FranciscoTwilight and Marc ErwinAnne and Robin FrenchBud and Cherryll FrickLynn and Jary GlazerDr. and Mrs. Carlos Hamilton, Jr.Maybell and Virgil HarrisGayle and Richard HightowerTrisha, Scot & Megan PhilippCindy and Jim HintonEvelyn and Bob JewellCarol and Chuck Kingswell-SmithLinda and Fred Knapp, Jr.L.R. French, IIIThe Leonard Family – Michael,Colette and DavidLittle Keswick SchoolFranna and Ted LittonMargene and Bill LloydLocke Lord Bissell and Liddell LLPKathy and Jeff LoveRobbie and Jim LowreySusan and Thomas MartinCatherine MarziottiMr. and Mrs. Frederick McCordDorothy and Thomas McDadeMaribel S. McLearyKenny MeyerGayle MurchisonThe Neilson Family – Skip, Nancy,Erica, AnnieMr. and Mrs. Richard Nelson, Jr.Northern TrustSandy and Mike O’ConnorWilliam C. OehmigCrystal OwensJudge and Mrs. E.H. Patton, Jr.Jo Ann PetersenMary and Larry PetersonKathy and Harry PhillipsSusan and Bob PohlTy and Peggy PuckettDiane and Ben RobertsFranelle RogersLiz and Matt Rotan

Clifford RudolphAnn and Howard SchrammTerri and Joseph SchwartzPhyllis and Jack SelberVanessa and Perry SendukasRuth Skelton and FamilyRoberta and David SmithTim, Sharon and TaylorThrockmortonMrs. Loyd A. Wright

Daniel JacksonTim, Sharon and TaylorThrockmorton

Diane JacksonNina JacksonRosemary and Ronald Kallinen

Harold JaschkeMr. and Mrs. Robert Paddock

Robert Alden JewellPam and Jimmy ErwinTim, Sharon and TaylorThrockmorton

Thomas W. LemanAnonymous

Catherine McAndrewJo Ann and Gary Levering

Drew WebbAnonymousAvery Alcorn, George and LibbyAlcornAnnie BowlerMatthew BrinkDavid S. BrollierMr. and Mrs. Philip BurguieresMichael, Duncan, James, Ginger

and David CarringtonCathy CaseyBetsy HallDiana CornellJodene CornelsonTee CouchD’Agostino Salon/Mary T. ValenciaJoan and David DunlapPam and Jimmy ErwinNancy and Pete EtheridgeJudith A. GrafMichael HallCarol and John HeidemanSharon and Jim HibbertStephanie and George HilliardTrisha HillmanSultana Kaldis and FamilyJulie and Jim KeenanElizabeth A. KelleySally, Walker and John KernsSusan Holderness and

Kenneth Ledford

DBSA Donors Jo Ann and Gary LeveringBritt LevyThe Lookout FoundationCynthia Sprague and Paul LyonsEileen Smith and Daniel MarichalPatricia McConnicoMr. and Mrs. Ed McCulloughArline and Harvey MelzerMatha and Bill MiltonPaula MorzentiPriya NathMatt NewtownThe Next Level FitnessMai Anh Nguyen, M.D., P.A.William and Stephanie NolanPat, Barbie, Chris and

Tricia O’ConnellKathy and Harry PhillipsKathy and Phillip PierceThe Ploetz FamilyPatsy PowellSharmila Rudrappa and

Jeffrey SalamonSusan Lupton and Bob SchallThomas D. and Katherine

E.M. Schroeder FundSheri and Steve Scott and

Emilie and David WallaceMary and Jake SilversteinJoan SivalonBrian SweanyWilliam and Myrna ThiessenTim, Sharon and

Taylor ThrockmortonCarlton WildeArdis WipfJack WomackNancy and Robert Zimmerman

Charlie Webber, Jr.Frank and Carol GruenRoy and Sharon JonesCarol MalloyKathleen and James McCloskeyJanice Dougall MelcherGayle PearsonRufus and Kay SchmidtTommye and George Zenner

O.J. WeberMartha Neil and Bobby GamblinJo Ann and Gary LeveringFranna and Ted Litton

7 s f o r 7

Join DBSA and The Friends of Drew Webbfor the “7s for 7” Lacrosse Tournament to raiseawareness of depression and other mental illness

in athletes. www.7sfor7.org

3800 Buffalo Speedway, Suite 300Houston, TX 77098713-600-1131

Return Service Requested

Recognize Symptoms

It’s that time of the year again – your kids are back inschool. Along with all the excitement comes high anxietyand depression. Unlike adults, depressed children areunable to verbalize their feelings. Instead, they use theiractions to express how they are feeling. If you think yourchild may be depressed or anxious, here are some warningsigns to look for:

Sudden changes in behavior

� Aggressive, angry or agitated behavior

� Increased risk-taking

� Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

� Lower self-esteem

� Giving up valued possessions and settling unfinished business

� Withdrawal from friends, activities and family

� Changes in dress or appearance

� Significant losses or family stress

N EW S F R OM BAY L O R

The Baylor College of Medicine Mood DisordersCenter is pleased to announce the launch of severalnew research trials for patients with a diagnosis ofunipolar major depressive disorder. These studieswill test new drug therapies for patients sufferingfrom severe and persistent symptoms of depression.For study eligibility, patients must be 18–70, in goodgeneral health, and not be actively abusing alcoholor drugs.

For inquiries phone: 877-96-BCM-MOODemail: mood@bcm.edu

www.bcm.edu/psychiatry/moodIf someone wishes to speak directly to a study

psychiatrist, they may contact Dr. Sanjay Mathewby email (sjmathew@bcm.edu) or telephone

(713-791-1414 ext. 4159).

published by DBSA Greater HoustonEditors

Christina Wilkerson • David Schultz

Phone: 713-600-1131 – Email: dbsahouston@dbsahouston.org

www.dbsahouston.org

Non-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE PAIDHouston, TexasPermit No. 2311