For many people, life can be a bit overwhelming at times. Yet, isn’t it surprising how many people seem to have it all together? With depression and suicide rates rising in almost every age group, it may be that more people are hiding their mental health issues behind a mask of perfection.

To identify the connection between perfectionism and depression, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with a clinical psychologist and author who has made it her life’s work to demystify depression.

Dr. Margaret Rutherford uncovers the connection between perfectionism and suicide, and shares the core tenets from her book Perfectly Hidden Depression: How to Break Free from the Perfectionism That Masks Your Depression.

Dr. Margaret Rutherford — The Face of Depression:

• Dr. Rutherford describes the link between perfectionism, detachment, and suicide. {3:43}
• How to start conversations with friends, family, or others about needing help with our vulnerabilities? {9:36}
• Why perfectionism is highly overrated. {18:59}
• Syndromes and distortions of the mind remind us that depression can be very dark. {22:47}
• The role of therapists and the importance of having support systems. {25:14}

About Lisa’s guest:

Born in Pine Bluff Arkansas, Dr Margaret Rutherford began her career after graduating from Rhodes College in Memphis with a degree in French. After living abroad, she worked as a jingle singer, also performing Jazz at night. Her career path transitioned upon earning a Music Therapy Degree from SMU, leading her to a PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Texas, and she has been practicing ever since.

To learn more, visit www.harvestinghappiness.com