Episode 83. Depression with Linda Gask – Author of The Other Side of Darkness

Linda Gask joins me in this episode to explore her dual perspectives of depression as a sufferer, and as a psychiatrist. Emerita Professor of Primary Care Psychiatry, Linda chronicles her history of depression which first reared its head when she was in medical school, and dogged her career as a junior doctor and then as a consultant.

Linda described the manifestations of her depression, from low mood and poor motivation to physical pain and suicidality. She also highlighted her co-morbid performance anxiety, obsessiveness, and ruminative thoughts. We also explored her biopsychosocial vulnerabilities to depression, such as a strong family history of mental illness, and the life events that trigger her breakdowns.

The podcast also discussed Linda's double-edged experience of antidepressants, and of psychological therapies. She also highlighted the importance of having healthy relationships and being open about the disorder. Other themes of the conversation are the vulnerability of doctors, especially psychiatrists, to depression and suicide; the practical approaches to managing depression; and the inadequacies of current anti-depressant therapies.

Linda has worked as an advisor to WHO and has been on the Board of the World Psychiatric Association. She co-founded the STORM suicide prevention training organisation, and she now serves as Vice-Chair of the Blide Trust, a mental health voluntary organisation. Her latest book is ‘Out of Her Mind: How We are Failing Women’s Mental Health and What Must Change’.