“Depression in the First Person”

“Depression in the First Person”

Imagine battling a relentless storm inside your mind while trying to maintain a successful career. That’s the reality for Anna Mehler Paperny, a Canadian journalist who has won awards for her investigative reporting with Reuters, The Globe and Mail, and Global News. In this compelling episode of 'Lifespan', Anna opens up about her lifelong struggle with major clinical depression, including multiple suicide attempts.

She bravely shares her personal story to shed light on the often misunderstood and stigmatized world of mental illness. Anna’s journey isn’t just about her own battles; she also offers a historical perspective on how mental illness has been treated over the years and discusses the ongoing stigma that surrounds it.

Her book, 'Hello I want to Die Please Fix Me: Depression in the First Person', delves into these themes in greater detail and has recently been released in the United States. This episode is not just a narrative; it’s a call to action for better mental health care and greater understanding. Anna talks about the credibility issues faced by psychiatrists and psychologists and stresses the importance of integrating mental health care into primary care settings.

Her candid discussion aims to break down barriers and foster a more compassionate approach to mental health. Whether you’re struggling with depression yourself, know someone who is, or are simply interested in understanding more about this critical issue, Anna’s story offers valuable insights and a powerful message of hope.