The Worst Mental Illness: Understanding Severe Depression and Finding Hope

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Depression is a beast. I know because I’ve wrestled with it for 31 years. As someone living with bipolar disorder, I’ve experienced the crushing lows of severe depression firsthand. But here’s the thing – there’s hope, even in the darkest times.

In this post, we’ll explore what many consider the “worst” mental illness and how support through programs like the NDIS can be a lifeline. Whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting a loved one, you’re not alone on this journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Depression is often considered one of the most debilitating mental illnesses
• The “worst” mental illness is the one that’s left untreated
• NDIS support can be crucial for managing severe mental health conditions
• Recovery is possible with proper treatment and support

What Makes Depression So Devastating?

Depression isn’t just feeling sad. It’s a black hole that sucks away your energy, motivation, and joy. On my worst days, even getting out of bed felt impossible. (And don’t ask whether I showered.)

Some key depression symptoms include:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness
• Loss of interest in activities
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide

The Impact of Severe Depression

Depression doesn’t just affect your mood. It can touch every area of your life:

• Work: Job performance suffers. You may miss work or struggle to focus.
• Relationships: Depression can strain connections with family and friends.
• Physical health: It’s linked to various health issues, from heart disease to chronic pain.
• Daily tasks: Even simple chores can feel overwhelming.

Is Depression the “Worst” Mental Illness?

It’s tricky to label any mental illness as the “worst.” Each person’s experience is unique. But depression is often considered one of the most debilitating conditions.

Why? It attacks your very will to live. When you’re severely depressed, just existing feels painful. My mentor, Dr John F. Demartini, says, “If you don’t have a will to live, you have a will to die.”

That said, other conditions like schizophrenia or severe anxiety can be equally devastating. The truth is, the worst mental illness is the one that’s left untreated.

Uncommon Mental Disorders

While depression is well known, some mental health conditions are less common:

• Alice in Wonderland Syndrome: This rare disorder causes distorted perception. The world might suddenly seem too big, too small, or warped.
• Cotard’s Delusion: People with this condition believe they’re dead or don’t exist.
• Diogenes Syndrome: Also called senile squalor syndrome, it involves extreme self-neglect and hoarding.

These disorders remind us of the complex nature of mental health. While rare, they underscore the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment.

Finding Help: The NDIS and Mental Health

If you’re battling severe depression or another mental illness in Victoria, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be a lifeline.

The NDIS provides support for Australians with significant and permanent disabilities, including psychosocial disabilities from mental health conditions.

How the NDIS Can Help

Through the NDIS, you might access:

• Support workers to help with daily tasks
• Therapy and counselling
• Support coordination to help manage your services
• Assistance with social and community participation

These supports can be crucial in managing your mental health and rebuilding your life.

Beyond the NDIS: Other Support Options

Besides the NDIS, other supports are available:

• Centrelink payments: You might be eligible for the Disability Support Pension or other payments.
• Medicare-subsidised mental health care: This includes sessions with psychologists and psychiatrists.
• Community mental health services: Local support groups and programs can provide valuable connections.

The 7 Life Areas: A Holistic Approach to Mental Health

Managing mental health isn’t just about treating symptoms. It’s about creating a fulfilling life. Let’s look at 7 key areas:

1. Intellect: Engaging your mind can boost mood and self-esteem. Try learning a new skill or hobby.
2. Career: Work gives us purpose. The NDIS can help with job readiness and employment support.
3. Health: Physical and mental health are linked. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage depression.
4. Relationships: Connection is vital. NDIS supports can help you maintain and build relationships.
5. Impact: Making a difference, even in small ways, can boost self-worth. Consider volunteering (like you can at our Oldies and Goodies Op Shop) or mentoring.
6. Prosperity: Financial stress can worsen mental health. NDIS and Centrelink supports can help ease this burden.
7. Spirituality: Finding meaning and purpose is crucial. This might involve religion, meditation, or connecting with nature.

My Journey with Bipolar Disorder

Living with bipolar disorder isn’t easy. The mood swings can be extreme. But with proper treatment and support, it’s manageable.

For me, a combination of medication, Interpersonal & Social Rhythm Therapy, and lifestyle changes has been key. Even though I’m not an NDIS participant, for the past four years I’m grateful for the support I’ve received through The SALT Foundation through the work I’ve done for them. It’s been invaluable in maintaining stability and pursuing my goals, despite going through some tough times.

Remember, recovery is possible. It might not be a straight path, but every step forward counts.

Conclusion: There’s Always Hope

Depression and other mental illnesses can feel overwhelming. But remember – you’re not alone, and help is available.

Whether it’s through the NDIS, other support services, or your own inner strength, there are ways to manage even the most severe mental health conditions.

The worst mental illness? It’s the one that’s left untreated. So if you’re struggling, reach out. Your journey to recovery starts with that first step.

Our next post in this series looks at another mental illness, specifically the prevalence of anxiety in Australia and what that means for people living with it.

Action Steps:

1. If you’re in crisis, call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit your local emergency department.

2. Speak to your GP about a mental health care plan.

3. Contact the NDIS to see if you’re eligible for support.

4. Reach out to loved ones. Don’t isolate yourself.

5. Take small steps each day towards your wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Remember, if you’re struggling with mental health issues, help is available. Reach out to a healthcare professional or contact the NDIS to explore your support options.

Daniel G. Taylor

Daniel G. Taylor has been writing about the NDIS for three years. His focus has been on mental health and psychosocial disabilities as he lives with bipolar disorder I. He’s been a freelance writer for 30 years and lives across the road from the beach in Adelaide. He’s the author of How to Master Bipolar Disorder for Life and a contributor to Mastering Bipolar Disorder (Allen & Unwin) and he’s a mental health speaker.