Beth MacKay knew at a young age that she saw the world differently than many of her friends and family.
Beth MacKay knew at a young age that she saw the world differently than many of her friends and family. She thought her pessimism and cynicism were rooted in realism, a proud reminder of her Scottish roots, and not a sign of an underlying medical condition. That understanding of herself changed when, at the age of 17, she attempted suicide.
“I was diagnosed with depression, but looking back, it started much earlier,” says MacKay, now 31. “Doctors believe it may have started when I was 10 or 11 years old. As a child I would go through periods where I couldn’t sleep, I didn’t want to go to school, and I was constantly sick.”
MacKay’s parents tried to find help and support for her. They thought her symptoms may have been related to a learning disorder, but no one suspected depression could be the cause.
Prescribed anti-depressants and therapy, MacKay went on to university. She noticed everyone around her seemed to be functioning, but she couldn’t get out of bed. She spent the next several years pretending to be okay. She would sleep most of the day, and get up and out only long enough to put on a front to show people she was fine. It seemed that no matter what treatment options she tried, nothing made life manageable.
Read more at University of Calgary
Image: Dr. Raj Ramasubbu shows study participant Beth MacKay where the stimulation device was implanted in her brain. (Credit: Photo by Kelly Johnston, Cumming School of Medicine)
