Connected by having a son or daughter who is gay, parents across the country discuss their experiences in the documentary Anyone and Everyone. In it, filmmaker Susan Polis Schutz, depicts families from all walks of life. Individuals from such diverse backgrounds as Japanese, Bolivian, and Cherokee, as well as from various religious denominations such as Mormon, Jewish, Roman Catholic, Hindu, and Southern Baptist, share intimate accounts of how their children revealed their sexual orientation and discuss their responses. The parents also talk about struggling with the pain of their sons and daughters dealing with not being accepted by relatives or friends, and being ostracized by religious congregations.

Anyone and Everyone

The Misunderstood Epidemic: Depression is an intimate look at how depression affects its victims and their families. The film explores through firsthand accounts how depression can happen to anyone regardless of age, race, or socioeconomic background. One by one the topics are addressed in candid detail: symptoms; suicide; the stigma and lack of understanding; the stress in families and relationships; the loss of ability to work. The film also discusses the pros and cons of medication, different types of therapy, and support groups. It contains uplifting advice to families and friends of people who are depressed. It inspires hope for happiness and a path to get better. The inspiration for this documentary came from Susan Polis Schutz's own experience with depression. Susan kept a journal while struggling to overcome depression. That journal was the basis for Susan's recent book, Depression and Back: A Poetic Journey Through Depression and Recovery. The film and book will help people understand depression, give them hope, and show them that they are not alone.

The Misunderstood Epidemic: Depression

Susan Polis Schutz's documentary follows twelve subjects who have persevered despite having suffered severe adversity.