Health

Presidential depression and Abraham Lincoln’s struggle with ‘melancholy’: What historians know

Published

7 months ago

February 12, 2024

Presidential depression and Abraham Lincoln’s struggle with ‘melancholy’: What historians know

He is perhaps best known for his honesty — but a lesser-known fact about Abraham Lincoln is that the 16th president of the United States battled severe depression during his lifetime.

Dr. Chris Tuell, a clinical psychotherapist and a chemical and behavioral addiction specialist at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, has studied Lincoln’s mental health struggles extensively.

“Though the history books play a significant role in our perception and understanding of the ‘rail splitter’ from Illinois, it often becomes easy for us to forget that Abraham Lincoln was very human,” Tuell told Fox News Digital.

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“Lincoln led this nation through its worst crisis, while at the same time battling his own internal war of chronic depression.”

Here’s what to know.

Abraham Lincoln, 16th president of the United States, is depicted in this painting at the Gettysburg Address. (Painting by J.L.G. Ferris)

Signs of Lincoln’s depression

At age 32, in a letter to John Stuart in 1841, Lincoln wrote, “I am now the most miserable man living. If what I feel were equally distributed to the whole human family, there would not be one cheerful face on earth. Whether I shall ever be better, I cannot tell; I awfully forebode I shall not; to remain as I am is impossible.”

Lincoln scholars have “clear evidence” that he suffered from depressive episodes beginning in his 20s, Tuell noted.

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“Lincoln’s school teacher, Mentor Graham, stated, ‘Lincoln told me that he felt like committing suicide often,’” Tuell said.

“Law partner and biographer William Herndon stated, ‘He was a sad-looking man, gloomy and melancholic. His melancholy dripped from him as he walked.’”

Contributing factors to Lincoln’s depression

The president’s mental health condition can be attributed to both genetics and traumatic experiences, according to the book “Lincoln’s Melancholy” by Joshua Wolf Shenk.

Lincoln is said to have had a family history of depression.

Abraham Lincoln, 16th president of the U.S., battled severe depression. (Library of Congress Prints and Photographs)

“Historical records indicate that Lincoln’s mother and father were disposed to melancholy and that one side of the family ‘was thick with mental disease,’” said Tuell.

“Bereavement in childhood can be one of the most significant factors in the development of depressive illness in later life.”

As a child, Lincoln lost several close family members.

After his brother died in infancy, Lincoln’s mother, aunt and uncle all died when he was just 9 years old. A decade later, his sister died while delivering a stillborn infant.

Later, Lincoln experienced the loss of his first love, Ann Rutledge, in 1835.

As a father, he experienced the death of two young sons, Eddie and Willie.

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“According to mental health professionals, bereavement in childhood can be one of the most significant factors in the development of depressive illness in later life,” Tuell said.

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, said that Lincoln’s melancholy may have been tied to his “intellectual prowess and [his tendency to] see and feel things deeply.”

How Lincoln dealt with depression

Before the age of psychotherapy and antidepressant medications, Lincoln learned to live with his depressive disposition, Tuell said.

“He would frequently use humor and storytelling to elevate his mood and distract himself from his depression,” the psychologist told Fox News Digital.

Abraham Lincoln is depicted at the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, which gave enslaved people their freedom. (Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

“Only his closest friends had any insight concerning the extent of his condition.”

In a time period when mental health treatment was not available, Tuell noted that learning how to manage his life with his depression was Lincoln’s only choice.

“The only other option would have been for him to succumb to these adversities,” he said.

“He managed to overcome it and the Civil War to become our greatest president, by most people’s estimation.”

“It does not appear that it was in the 16th president’s persona to acquiesce. Lincoln persevered and served this country eloquently.”

Siegel noted that in Lincoln’s time, depression was referred to as “melancholy” and was typically treated with opium, a highly addictive narcotic drug that is extracted from the poppy plant.

“It does not appear that it was in the 16th president’s persona to acquiesce,” a psychologist said. “Lincoln persevered and served this country eloquently.” (AP)

Historians have noted that Lincoln’s sons brought him periods of happiness despite his ongoing depression.

“We are so used to seeing Abraham Lincoln looking depressed and sad, that we forget — and the historical record is clear on this — he would break down in laughter when playing with his boys or observing the mayhem they created,” Raymond Arroyo, a Fox News contributor and bestselling author, previously told Fox News Digital.

He is the author of the book, “The Magnificent Mischief of Tad Lincoln,” part of his Turnabout Tales series of books.

What to know about depression

Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

There are different types of depressive disorders, according to Tuell.

These may include major depression, dysthymia (an ongoing, low-grade depression) and bipolar (mood swings of depression and mania).

Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. (iStock)

“Depression can affect every aspect of one’s life — physical health, sleep [habits], eating habits, job and your relationships with friends and family,” said Tuell. “It affects thoughts, feelings and behaviors.”

While depression is one of the most serious mental health issues facing people today, Tuell noted that it’s also one of the most treatable.

Lincoln’s perseverance in the face of severe depression was something to be admired, Tuell and Siegel agreed.

“We can only speculate what Lincoln would say or do about our current state of political affairs, or even what thoughts he may have toward the new millennium’s understanding of depression and mental health,” Tuell said.

President Abraham Lincoln with General George B. McClellan at his headquarters at Antietam, Oct. 3, 1862. From left: General George W. Morell, Colonel Alexander S. Webb, General McClellan, scout Adams, Dr. Jonathan Letterman, unidentified officer, President Lincoln, Colonel Henry Hunt, General Fitz, John Porter, unidentified officer. (Getty Images)

“But now, some 159 years later, Lincoln’s historical persona continues to belong to the ages.”

Lincoln believed in the human spirit and spoke of the role people must have toward one another, Tuell noted.

“This was no more clearly expressed than through Lincoln’s own words, ‘With malice toward none; with charity for all,’” he said.

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Lincoln’s battle with depression can be regarded as an “inspiration to all who suffer from this dreaded disease or feel stigmatized by it,” Siegel added.

“He managed to overcome it and the Civil War to become our greatest president, by most people’s estimation.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

Melissa Rudy is health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

Health

Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks

Published

6 hours ago

August 31, 2024

Press Room

Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks

Taking time to sit in a sauna can be a great way to decompress after a grueling workout or even a stressful day.

While in a sauna, you can add to the relaxation by reading your favorite book, listening to a motivational podcast or just by closing your eyes, taking deep breaths and sweating the stress away.

Saunas are commonly found at gyms and spas, but you can buy one for your home.

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A sauna offers health benefits, but it’s also important to be mindful of risks.

What are the different types of saunas?
What are the health benefits that come from sauna use?
How long is it safe to go in the sauna?
Are there any risks of sauna use I should be aware of?

A sauna is full of health benefits, but it also poses risk if not used properly or if used with certain underlying health conditions. (iStock)

1. What are the different types of saunas?

A sauna is “a specific room heated to about 150 to 195 (F) degrees, and where the temperature and humidity of the room can be controlled with sprinkling water on the rocks in the heater/stove,” according to the North American Sauna Society’s website.

Some of the most commonly found saunas are wood-burning saunas, electrically heated saunas, manufactured sauna rooms, smoke saunas, steam rooms and infrared rooms.

For the most part, many of the health benefits are consistent no matter what type of sauna you use.

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“While many benefits overlap, steam may be better for respiratory issues, far infrared for weight loss and recovery,” Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist from Scottsdale, Arizona, and founder of youth skin care brand BTWN, told Fox News Digital via email.

2. What are the health benefits that come from sauna use?

There are several different health benefits that come along with sauna use.

“Both steam and dry saunas can have beneficial effects on respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease and dementia,” Jeffy said.

“They also help stiff muscles and joints and increase circulation to the skin. Both steam and infrared saunas have beneficial effects on blood pressure. Infrared saunas may improve weight loss when combined with exercise and improve muscle recovery.”

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The time at which you use a sauna doesn’t matter, according to Jeffy. Either a morning sweat or a relaxing sit in the sauna before bed can boast health benefits.

Many people also choose to hop in a sauna after a workout.

“Post-workout sessions help improve weight control and muscle recovery,” Jeffy said.

It’s common to sit in a sauna after completing a workout. (iStock)

3. How long is it safe to go in the sauna?

When in a sauna, make sure you keep track of how long you’ve been inside.

Many gym saunas have a clock, so you don’t have to take your phone inside, potentially causing it to overheat.

If there isn’t a timer or clock available, make sure to bring one with you or set an alarm to sound so you know when it’s time to exit.

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“The maximum time to spend in the dry sauna or steam room is about 15-20 minutes,” Jeffy said. “Infrared sauna can be used longer, anywhere from 20-40 minutes.”

4. Are there any risks of sauna use I should be aware of?

While sauna use does include benefits, there are also risks you should be aware of if you decide to add it to your routine.

The risks include dehydration, heat exhaustion and stroke, according to Jeffy.

Make sure to drink water to keep yourself hydrated while in a sauna. (iStock)

To avoid potential dehydration, bring a bottle of water into the sauna with you.

If you aren’t a regular sauna user already, consider a slow progression to allow your body to adjust and slowly begin increasing the time you sit inside.

Lastly, if you are pregnant, sick, intoxicated or prone to dizziness, you should not use a sauna, according to Jeffy.

“Saunas should not be used if you have had a recent heart attack, or history of angina, aortic stenosis or congestive heart failure,” Jeffy added.

Ashlyn Messier is a writer for Fox News Digital.

Health

‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor

Published

16 hours ago

August 31, 2024

Press Room

‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor

You’ve likely heard the old adage that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but what if you’re just not hungry in the morning?

Is it OK to consistently skip the morning meal and hold off until lunch?

Fox News Digital asked some nutritionists about the potential ramifications of bypassing breakfast on a regular basis and their recommendations for optimizing metabolism with a healthy morning routine.

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While most experts agree it’s OK to skip breakfast once in a while, it’s generally beneficial to eat something within an hour or two of waking up.

While most experts agree it’s OK to skip breakfast once in a while, it’s generally beneficial to eat something within an hour or two of waking up. (iStock)

“Skipping breakfast regularly could lead to some unwanted side effects,” Shelley Balls, registered dietitian and owner at Fueling Your Lifestyle in Smoot, Wyoming, told Fox News Digital.

“It can lead to an overconsumption of foods in the following meals throughout the day. You may think you’re eating fewer calories, but you might actually be binging at lunch or dinner,” she said.

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Never eating breakfast can also affect energy levels, she warned, as the body isn’t getting the carbohydrates and nutrients it needs to perform optimally.

There could also be a long-term effect of slowing down the metabolism, the expert said.

“Breakfast is meant to break the overnight fast, and can help jump-start your metabolism. So, over time, not eating breakfast could decrease your metabolism, as your body becomes more efficient with fewer calories,” Balls said.

Protein in the morning usually leads to a higher calorie burn and helps to reduce hunger later in the day, experts say. (iStock)

Breakfast has been associated with a bevy of benefits, including better weight management, better cognitive function, increased metabolism, improved energy and reduced hunger, according to Vanessa King, registered dietitian nutritionist and media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Oahu, Hawaii.

“Breakfast gives you an energy boost to power-start your day,” King told Fox News Digital.

“Not eating breakfast could decrease your metabolism, as your body becomes more efficient on fewer calories.”

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“Breaking an overnight fast with a balanced breakfast significantly impacts well-being and overall health,” she added. “It’s important for everyone. And for children and teens, eating breakfast has been associated with better behavior and academic performance.”

If you’re not hungry within an hour or two of waking up, King suggests looking at your eating pattern.

“Are you snacking at night and it’s leaving you full in the morning? Try lighter snacks and allow more time between your last meal and sleep,” she advised.

The fasting factor

For people who are following a plan of intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding, eliminating breakfast is a common way to maintain a shorter eating window and a longer fasting stretch, according to Dr. Jennie Stanford, an obesity medicine physician in Pennsylvania and medical contributor for Drugwatch.

“One main determinant here is how someone feels later in the day,” she told Fox News Digital.

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If skipping breakfast makes you feel ravenous later in the day, ultimately causing you to overconsume at other meals, this is not recommended, the doctor said.

“However, if not eating breakfast doesn’t impact the calories and other macronutrients they consume as the day progresses, it may represent an opportunity to decrease overall calorie intake,” Stanford added.

Lighter options for when you’re not hungry

“If you’re not ready for a full meal, begin with something small within 30 to 60 minutes of waking,” recommends Chloë Ward, a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and certified integrative nutrition health coach in Santa Barbara, California.

“Even a light snack can help signal to your body that it’s time to start burning energy.”

“Breakfast gives you an energy boost to power-start your day,” an expert told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

Ward offers the following breakfast suggestions for someone who’s not generally hungry in the morning but wants to kick-start metabolism.

Smoothies: A nutrient-dense smoothie with ingredients like spinach, a small amount of fruit, protein powder and healthy fats (like avocado or nut butter) can be a light yet satisfying option.
Greek yogurt with berries: Greek yogurt is rich in protein and can be paired with a handful of berries and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added fiber and healthy fats.
Overnight Oats: Preparing oats the night before with milk, chia seeds and a dash of cinnamon can create a light and easy-to-digest breakfast that’s ready when you wake up.
Protein-rich snack: A hard-boiled egg, a piece of turkey or chicken, or a small serving of cottage cheese can be a quick and light protein boost.
A piece of fruit with nut butter: Slices of apple or banana with a spoonful of almond or peanut butter offer a balance of carbs, protein and healthy fats without being too heavy.

Greek yogurt is rich in protein and can be paired with a handful of berries and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added fiber and healthy fats, a nutritionist said. (iStock)

Overall, experts agree that healthy options like fruits, whole grains, dairy, protein and vegetables provide the biggest benefit.

“Protein has a higher thermogenic effect than other macronutrients, meaning it requires more energy (heat) to break it down than either fats or carbohydrates,” Stanford told Fox News Digital.

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“As such, having protein in the morning usually leads to a higher calorie burn, at least temporarily.”

Protein also helps to reduce hunger later in the day, Stanford said.

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“Protein doesn’t have to mean meat, if it sounds too heavy in the morning,” she noted.

“Other good protein sources include low-sugar Greek yogurt, eggs, low-carb breakfast wraps, cheese, protein oats, protein shakes or clean protein bars.”

“Even a light snack can help signal to your body that it’s time to start burning energy.”

If you really can’t tolerate food in the morning, Ward suggests starting the day with a glass of warm water, possibly with lemon.

“Warm water helps wake up your digestive system, aids in hydration and can boost your metabolism after a night of fasting,” she said.

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

Health

Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It

Published

1 day ago

August 30, 2024

Press Room

Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It

Weight Loss Plateau: How To Tell if You’ve Hit One and How To Break It | Woman’s World

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