Understanding Depression video series

Case Study of a Middle-Aged Man

John and Jane are in their early 60s, headed toward retirement and are in good health. Most of their marriage has been relatively good and stable, but lately Jane has been concerned. Her typically affectionate husband has become distant and irritable. At Jane’s insistence, John sees his family doctor about his physical symptoms of fatigue. In this video, Jennifer Antonsen describes how this fictional couple discovered John’s diagnosis of mild depression and the steps they took to get him help.

Get more out of this series!

After watching video 5, follow these steps to get the most out of this part of the series:

// Step 1

Read and meditate on this verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

// Step 2

Answer these discussion questions:

1. 1. Jane initially thought the distance she was feeling from her husband was due to marital problems. Can you see how an in-depth knowledge of symptoms of depression may have helped Jane spot the warning signs of depression in John?
   2. As John speaks with a counsellor, he learns his depression was brought on by his fears of retirement and aging. Have major life transitions ever impacted your mental health?
   3. How can you become more aware of your mental health when entering seasons of change, whether it’s retirement like John or being a new parent like Melissa?

// Step 3

Read the article “How to help a depressed spouse” by Dr. Patricia Landry for practical advice if your husband or wife is currently dealing with depression, or if you suspect they might be.

// Step 4

Sign up for the free video series Mental Health in Marriage with Dr. Karl Benzio. In these six videos, you will learn about different kinds of mental health issues, how common each one is, and how there’s help for you no matter what mental health challenge you’re facing. You’ll also learn how to talk to your spouse about your struggles, what you can do to support each other, and where you can go for guidance.