Before writing this piece, I thought long and hard about critical happenings around our country and which of those circumstances were urgent for emphasis. Based on my last post, “privatization” had become a theme on this blog. After residents in Detroit experienced water shut-offs because of past due notices, residents in Toledo, Ohio were told to stop drinking their tap water because the algae in Lake Erie had populated uncontrollably. News articles say the growing algae has long existed; however, an article found on msn news 12 days ago shared that the water was severely polluted in the 1970’s, but weather conditions has caused the algae to bloom into the lake every year since the mid 1990’s. The Toledo Water Conditioning, Inc. provided a “water crisis overview” on their website stating,
“The Toledo municipal water supply has been infected with a toxin called microcystin produced from blue green algae(cyanobacteria) present in massive amounts in Lake Erie. The green color of the algae can be seen from outer space. The chlorine added by the city water has little effect on these toxins. The toxins that have been present in the city water have been at levels far exceeding acceptable standards. The city is getting better control over the issue and is reducing the toxins to a level under the recommended maximum contaminant levels. This does not mean the toxins are all gone, they are simply lower than the maximum allowable numbers. The public utilities department now has better control over the toxin, however the city’s water treatment plant has experienced some mechanical breakdowns. The city is feeding in massive doses of chlorine and aluminum (alum) to the water to try to coagulate the “gunk” coming in from the lake. Yes, there is aluminum in the city tap water.”
Based on this statement, the civic duty that surrounding cities and states have participated in such as providing water to Toledo residents must continue for the preservation of human health.
On another disheartening note, I have considered much of the happenings since the August 9th murdering of another black male. The riots proceeding from the killing of Michael Brown of Ferguson, Missouri are yet cries from the community, though violent and illegal, still, people are grieving while believing there are no alternative responses because the authorities of this country appear to not value the life of the African American male.
Everywhere, people are hurting. If the outbursts in Missouri are affecting you as much as I question, “What can be done to eradicate this madness?” “What is destined to happen next?”, then I encourage you to find peace within and share that peace with everyone who crosses your path. Be the light and speak life because where there is a lack of peace, there is hurt; where there is hurt, there is death; hence Robin Williams.
According to the LA Times, Williams had undergone heart surgery five years ago, the independent film Williams was starring in, “The Crazy Ones”, was cut from the CBS network, he was experiencing financial struggle, and recently received treatment from an alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility – because he was trying to hold it together. There is no wonder how Williams became overwhelmed with personal grief; however, who can save amidst such angst? I recently asked someone, “What is it that everyone is in dire need of that if they do not have it they believe life is not worth living anymore?” What do you think?
Much of the media has exploited Williams struggle with depression for the good of others battling the disease in hope that more people will speak out about their strife. Considering that The World Health Organization says, 13% of United States men suffer from depression, which leads to higher rates of alcohol and drug abuse, watch for the signs of depression from people you know and encourage life. Because men suppress their emotions, according to the Detroit Free Press, and are reluctant to reach out for help and admit their struggle, it may be advantageous to recall what the individual is passionate about to create such an atmosphere, squash family feuds because family and friend support is critical for homeostasis (balance), and then, suggest psychotherapy. Although the United States encourages anti-depressants, which have been said to be effective by some battling depression, the side effects seem to be rarely taken into account. People experiencing depression need:
- Structured and systematic environments that support the development of healthy relationships,
- Small successes with small goals that become major accomplishments for the individual, and
- Assistance with decreasing stress in their life.
Depression is a known relative of suicide; therefore, the push for men and ALL people to discuss their battle is in effort to reduce the alarming rates of suicide that increase yearly. The National Institute of Mental Health stated an approximate figure of 40,000 people die every year by suicide, which is more than homicidal deaths. In 2013, 25 million people were clinically diagnosed as depressed.
As I reflect upon Williams 2014 movie, “The Angriest Man in Brooklyn”, where he appeared severely grieved and attempted suicide, I am reminded of how Hollywood depict such realities of our times but also possible solutions that lend towards healing. Without revealing too much detail of the movie, after Henry Altmann, (Williams character) is informed that he only has 90 minutes to live, he thoughtfully plans to make amends and spend time with the people he loves.
What would you do if you thought you had 1 hour and 30 minutes to live?
Don’t wait to the pain of lost or the burdens of stress push you away from enjoying what matters the most to you. Make time for what really counts and remember 1, 2, and 3 mentioned earlier. Anger Kills.
If you or someone you know have become isolated from others, detached or distant, and possibly use humor as a defense, there may be concern for mild depression. Remember, diseases are contagious and they spread like a virus, depression is no exception. For other noticeable signs that you, a friend, or loved one may need to see as a wakeup call for help the American Psychiatric Association provides a helpful fact sheet and criteria for the Major Depressive Disorder.
Written by: Dr. Fuller
