Washington is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, lively cultural attractions, and prosperous economy. However, not all cities in the Evergreen State provide an equally positive living environment. A recent study by CEUFast, a nursing education website, identified Spokane as one of the most depressed cities in the country. Spokane is the second-largest urban centre in Washington and serves as the economic focal point for eastern Washington.
How the Study Measured Depression?
The CEUFast study utilized data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to measure depression rates in 200 cities across the United States. The study examined four leading indicators of depression:
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- The percentage of adults who have received a diagnosis of depression from a healthcare professional.
- The percentage of adults who have endured frequent mental distress within the past month.
- The percentage of adults who experience poor physical health.
- The percentage of adults who suffer from poor mental health.
Based on these criteria, the study calculated a depression score for each city, with higher scores indicating a higher prevalence of depression.
Why Spokane Is So Sad?
According to the study findings, Spokane is ranked as the 15th most depressed city in the United States and the most depressed city in Washington, with a depression score of 76.6. The study highlights that 23.8% of adults in Spokane have been diagnosed with clinical depression, while 14.9% experience frequent mental distress. Additionally, 17.1% face poor physical health, and 17.8% struggle with poor mental health.
Spokane has gained a reputation for melancholy due to various contributing factors.
Economic Challenges:
Spokane has a median household income of $53,274, lower than the national average of $62,843. The city also faces a poverty rate of 16.5%, exceeding the national average of 11.4%. The economic challenges in Spokane can be attributed to the decline of its manufacturing and mining sectors, which used to offer abundant job opportunities for its residents.
Social Isolation:
Spokane, located in eastern Washington, is often perceived as isolated due to its remote location, far from major urban centres like Seattle and Portland. The city has a population density of 3,526 people per square mile, which is lower than the national average of 4,272 people per square mile. Additionally, Spokane has a relatively high divorce rate of 13.7%, surpassing the national average of 10.9%. This higher divorce rate contributes to a sense of loneliness and disconnection experienced by many of its residents.
Seasonal Affective Disorder:
Spokane has a cold and cloudy climate, with an average annual temperature of 50°F and an average annual precipitation of 17 inches. The city’s low sunshine rate of 47% affects residents’ moods and energy levels, especially during the winter months, as it receives less than half of the possible sunshine hours each year.
How to Cope with Depression?
Depression, a severe mental health condition, impacts millions of Americans annually. It causes individuals to experience enduring emotions of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, and worthlessness, significantly disrupting their daily lives and overall well-being.
If you or someone you know is dealing with depression, there are several steps you can take to cope with it.
Seeking Professional Assistance: When it comes to dealing with depression, you don’t have to go through it alone. There are effective treatments available, including medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. A mental health expert can help you find the most suitable treatment for your situation and monitor your progress.
Please stay connected with others: Depression can frequently lead to feelings of isolation, but it’s crucial to have social support for your mental well-being. Keep in touch with your loved ones and friends, or consider joining a support group to openly share your emotions and experiences with people who can relate to your situation.
Taking care of yourself is crucial when dealing with depression. It not only affects your mental health but also your physical well-being. Make sure to prioritize self-care by adopting healthy habits. Eat nutritious meals, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs. By practising these habits, you can boost your mood, increase your energy levels, and effectively manage any other health concerns.
Engaging in activities that bring joy can be a powerful tool in managing depression. Feeling down makes it easy to lose interest and pleasure in things you once loved. However, by actively participating in positive endeavours, you can help improve your outlook on life. Find something that brings happiness, whether it’s a hobby, a passion, or a personal goal. Make it a priority to do something that brings a smile to your face every day.
In Conclusion
Spokane doesn’t have to live up to its reputation as one of the saddest cities in the country. The good news is that there are plenty of resources and strategies available to help its residents overcome depression and find happiness.
By seeking support, reaching out to others, prioritizing self-care, and participating in activities that bring them happiness, residents of Spokane can improve their mental health and overall well-being. While facing its fair share of difficulties, Spokane also possesses numerous strengths, such as its vibrant history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Despite setbacks, Spokane continues to prove itself as a resilient and determined community.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spokane’s Depression Study:
How was depression measured in the CEUFast study on Spokane?
A: The study used data from the U.S. Census Bureau and CDC, focusing on indicators such as the percentage of adults diagnosed with depression, frequent mental distress, poor physical health, and poor mental health.
Why is Spokane considered one of the most depressed cities in the U.S.?
A: Spokane’s ranking is influenced by factors like a high diagnosis rate of clinical depression (23.8%), economic challenges, social isolation due to its location, and a climate that contributes to Seasonal Affective Disorder.
What economic challenges does Spokane face?
A: Spokane has a lower median household income ($53,274) compared to the national average and a higher poverty rate (16.5%), partly due to the decline of its manufacturing and mining sectors.
