I just returned from speaking at the Fort Wayne seminary. Â The topic, of course, was clinical depression. Â It was really a two part visit. Â The first part was speaking to a deaconess practicum class, and the second part was doing a “fireside” chat in the Commons with about fifty students and (if they had one) their wives.
I always feel like it is returning to the mother ship when I go home. Â No matter how much I like (or dislike) what is going on at the place, it is home in many respects for me. Â I feel the same way about Seward. Â I don’t really have many ties to Seward anymore, but it is still my school.
The visit itself was good. Â I got to catch up with some friends, etc. More importantly, I was able to speak to about fifty members of the student body (and their wives) about depression. Â It was basically the same schtick I have done elsewhere (if you want to order the talk, CLICK HERE).
What do you say to a group of men who are studying to be pastors about mental illness and depression? Â There’s a lot to say but I tried to keep it to a description of depression, why pastors are at risk, and ways to address it (either preventatively or in the midst of it). Â I don’t know if they liked it. Â Can you “like” a talk about clinical depression? Â But I believe it was and is important for them to hear, and pray that there are more opportunities to do the same.
What would you tell a soon-to-be-pastor about clinical depression? Â Why?
I’d tell them to talk to you and read your book!
As the wife of a recent grad, and as one who can attest to the fact that Lutherans do indeed breed in captivity, I would give them a heads up about the connection between moving and postpartum depression. That’s not at all to say one should not have kids while at Sem. I just think it’s something more families should be aware of, so that they can be aware and keep if from cycling out of control.