DISABILITY AND DEPRESSION
People who become permanently disabled face many challenges such as chronic pain, loss of mobility, and reduced independence. However, perhaps the most debilitating obstacle is the way these physical challenges can combine to cause depression. It’s a painfully common condition for people with disabilities, and one that can often go untreated. As a firm, we don’t have any legal advice on how to beat depression. But as a group of people who have friends, family, and colleagues that have faced depression after a disability, we know that it’s a difficult issue that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. So, here’s what we want those facing a disability, and those around them, to know. Everyone: Know the Signs Depression is more than a mood or a mindset. While it’s perfectly normal to have a bad day or become upset over something in the moment, this clinical condition is far more serious. Symptoms include feeling tired all of the time, loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed, constant feelings of sadness or anxiousness, irritability, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts or attempts. If you or someone you love has experienced these symptoms, seek help from a clinical professional.
Friends and Family: Listen One of the best ways to prevent or treat disability-related depression is to provide a good support system. Often, disabilities lead people to feel isolated and alone with their pain, so being there for them is important, but you need to be intentional about it. Telling them well-meaning sentiments like “at least you’re alive,” or “look on the bright side” can often come off as shaming or belittling the very real pain they feel. Instead of telling, listen. It can be incredibly difficult to even imagine the struggles they are going through but, believe us, a sympathetic ear can make a world of difference. ThoseWith a Disability: KnowYou Aren’t Alone We can’t imagine the pain and the challenges you are struggling with, and we understand if you don’t want to take advice from some legal newsletter you got in the mail. Still, we just want you to know that there are communities and support groups out there with people facing similar challenges. Often, talking with these groups or a licensed counselor can give you a space to talk though your situation and begin planning your future.
Shrimp Sausage SKEWERS
Brain Buster
Ingredients
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1/2 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/2 pound cooked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
Creole Seasoning Ingredients •
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2 tablespoons paprika
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2 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
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1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
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1/2 tablespoon onion powder
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
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1/2 tablespoon cayenne or chili powder
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1/4 tablespoon dried oregano
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1/4 tablespoon dried thyme
Directions
1. Heat your grill to medium-high. 2. In a bowl, combine all ingredients for creole seasoning. 3. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, zucchini pieces, and sausage pieces, and cover them with the olive oil. 4. Add creole seasoning and mix well until all ingredients are covered. 5. Load up skewers with alternating pieces of shrimp, sausage, and zucchini until they’re full. 6. Grill skewers until shrimp are well-cooked (6–8 minutes).
Inspired by PaleoLeap.com
http://www.medlinfirm.com/ | Pg. 3
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