Something to think about - Breakthrough on depression

EVEN though depression exacts a huge toll on individuals, families and society, our understanding of it remains less than complete. It is at the root of so much unhappiness and tragedy that anything that helps us reach a better understanding of it and helps those so afflicted must be welcomed.

Research published by The Lancet suggests a form of meditation could be as effective as anti-depressants at preventing people relapsing. Though anti-depression medication is invaluable, in many instances it can sometimes drain the very energy, derail the very purpose needed to fight this awful sickness. Sometimes, but not very often, the cure can be worse than the disease.

Oxford University researchers studied the impact that Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) — a Buddhist technique aimed at focusing on the present moment and developing self-awareness — had on depression victims and concluded that in some instances it was as effective as medication. It also found that, as a form of mental training, it helps people recognise the onset of depression and possibly control it. The research found the method was not more effective than drugs, but suggested “a new choice for the millions of people with recurrent depression on repeat prescriptions”.

This is another step along the road to understanding how the mind works and how it might go wrong. This is noble, life-rescuing work and must be encouraged.

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