Unpacking loneliness and depression with Dr. Gary Zustiak

In this episode Skyler interviews Dr. Gary Zustiak (Dr. Zus) on the growing issues loneliness and depression. Dr. Zus holds a DMin from Abilene Christian University and is the head of the Psychology and Counseling program at Ozark Christian College. He has been regarded as a longtime expert on youth ministry and mental health, and he has written a number of related works, including the books Intensive Care: A Manual for the Nonprofessional Who Work with Hurting and Broken Youth and Student Ministry That Leaves a Mark: Changing Youth to Change the World.

Links
Gary Zustiak
Jean Twenge: iGen
Nicholas Kardaras: Glow Kids
The Coddling of the American Mind
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255

Notes:

How to recognize it before it becomes a problem:

1. Know yourself and monitoring your emotional pulse. Ask questions like: "How often do you feel hopeless? How often do you feel that you have lost interest in the things that used to bring you joy or purpose? How often do you feel overwhelmed? etc.
2. Do not isolate yourself or deny the problem hoping it will go away. Ask for help.

Steps to manage depression:

 1. Be intentional about rebuilding connections

• Do things you’ve never done before.
• Like having virtual hangouts with friends or family.

2. Follow a normal routine.

• Get up and go to bed at similar times every day.
• Organize your day.
• Keep up with personal hygiene.
• Eat healthy meals at regular times.
• Exercise regularly.
• Allocate time for working and time for resting.
• Make time for doing things you enjoy.
• The more you structure your day, the more your brain will calm down.

3. Make a list of things you can control.

• Surrender what you can’t.
• Write down things you actually have choices with.
• Minimize newsfeeds. Try to reduce how much you watch, read or listen to news that makes you feel anxious or distressed. Seek the latest information at specific times of the day, once or twice a day if needed.

4. Practice mindfulness.

• Take every thought captive.
• Don’t give in to thoughts of panic, process your thoughts.
• Increase all the spiritual practices you do.

5. Reach out to loved ones in your life whom you can talk to.
6. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

• God never intended for us to face our problems alone.

How to help if someone battling depression

• If you believe someone is struggling with depression reach out to them. Let them know you care.
• Treat people how they want to be treated. 
• Respect their wishes.
• Listen non-judgmentally.
• Give support and reassurance.
• Encourage professional help if needed.
• Encourage self-help organizations like Celebrate Recovery.