Helping Those with Disabilities Cope with Depression

If you have ever cared for a family member or loved one with an intellectual or physical disability, you know that depression can be a common and heartbreaking reality.

According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, depression in persons with disabilities may be more common than in the general population: People with physical disability experience multiple risk factors for depressive symptoms, including stereotypic social and personal attitude; abuse; loss of roles; and stressors related to poverty, environmental barriers, and/ or lack of access to appropriate health care. Substantial evidence shows that people living with physical disabilities are at least three times more likely to experience depression compared to the general population.

At Evergreen, everyone matters. As part of our mission to serve, provide for and champion individuals with disabilities, we support individuals with disabilities physically, emotionally and spiritually. Not only do we provide quality care for medical and behavioral needs, but we create opportunities for them to lead an independent and abundant life, and a place to call home. Most importantly, we offer them love, acceptance, value, and friendship.

As strong advocates for the rights of people with intellectual and physical disabilities, we have a variety of tools to help the people we serve increase their confidence, reach their maximum potential, and realize their dreams. We change lives by treating everyone we serve as individuals, and the many programs we provide offer socialization, job opportunities, increased self-confidence, and the chance to become active members of the community. We also work closely with their entire care team to ensure that the people we serve are getting the emotional and mental health care they need, when they need it.

Nothing is more fulfilling than witnessing the people we serve blossom and become the people they were always meant to be through encouragement, individualized care, and compassion.

To learn more about how you can help support Evergreen Life Services and enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, contact us today!