Psychologist: Secretary Of State's Depression Revelation Could Help Others Come Forward

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — CBS13 sat down with a psychologist who says there still isn't a lot known about depression, which is why there is a lot of fear associated with speaking out about it.

California Secretary Of State Debra Bowen recently disclosed she's been battling depression since college, and that the disorder has forced her to stay away from her office for days at a time.

Psychologist Dr. Debra Moore says public figures like Bowen coming forward can help others who are battling depression.

"It's not something you can talk yourself out of usually. Your entire body system is different," she said. "It's not when you feel down, it's not when something bad happens to you and you grieve. It is a pervasive disabling condition."

Bowen told the Los Angeles Times she moved out of her home and is now renting a space at a Sacramento mobile home park that she calls her regude.

"Depression does often leave people feeling as though they want to retreat into a cocoon and its very hard to be around other people," Moore said.

Depression is an equal opportunity disorder, Moore says, meaning it can affect people of all ages, sexes and socioeconomic statuses.

"Depression does tend to be a chronic condition for some people, so if someone is familiar with the cycles for them, they've often learned ways to compensate and get through until things change," she said.

Bowen says she can continue to work remotely as the Nov. 4 election approaches. She has termed out of office and her replacement will be chosen in that election. Most of the election night workload is handled by counties and not the state.

Moore says Bowen's disclosure is an important first step that could help others.

"Any time we have someone in a position to reach many other people, and they share their story, we know someone's going to get help," she said.