Esther Lyuh's depression cannot be solved by medication, warns expert

Doctor and broadcaster Esther Lyuh, who has battled depression for a long time, is facing a new turning point following an unexpected psychological diagnosis. While she appeared to be finding stability by reuniting with her husband, Hye-Gul Hong, an expert's assessment of Lyuh's inner state revealed a deeper underlying issue.

As Lyuh, who has undergone depression treatment for years, reveals her journey of re-examining her emotions and relationships beyond mere symptom relief, she is sparking a broader conversation about mental health and family dynamics.

- Reunited after 5 years of separation... "I want to live peacefully now," says Hye-Gul Hong

During the broadcast of the SBS variety program "Same Bed, Different Dreams 2: You Are My Destiny" on the 28th, a preview was released detailing the next chapter for the couple, Hye-Gul Hong and Esther Lyuh.

The pair lived apart for approximately five years, commuting between Jeju Island and Seoul, before moving back in together last August.

Lyuh, a family medicine specialist and graduate of Seoul National University College of Medicine, married medical journalist Hye-Gul Hong—a fellow alumnus—in 1994. They have two sons. While long known to the public as a prominent medical expert couple, they have navigated different lifestyles and conflicts throughout their marriage.

In the preview, Lyuh appeared brighter than before. She attempted small changes in her daily routine, such as exercising and cooking at home, prompting cautious relief from Hong.

"I felt relieved because I thought my wife had gotten better," Hong said, adding, "I want to continue living peacefully like this."

However, the evaluation from specialist Ham Ik-byeong, who observed the couple's relationship, offered a different perspective.

- "The condition is serious"... The hidden problem identified by Ham Ik-byeong

After observing Lyuh's condition, Ham diagnosed, "This is truly serious."

When Lyuh explained, "I am already taking psychiatric medication," Ham replied, "It is a different problem from that," noting, "You cannot fix everything with medication."

He focused specifically on the way Lyuh processes her emotions.

Ham analyzed, "She is turning all her anger toward herself." When Hong asked, "Do you mean self-abuse?", Ham answered, "Yes."

He continued, "She can never express it to others. That anger must be drawn out," explaining, "The family must play that role."

This suggests that her struggle is not merely a matter of depressive moods, but that a long-standing habit of suppressing her own emotions and desires is creating a significant psychological burden.

- Over 10 years of battling illness... Including electroconvulsive therapy

Lyuh has been candid about her battle with depression through various broadcasts.

She confessed to receiving medication for over 10 years without significant improvement and revealed that she eventually chose electroconvulsive therapy under general anesthesia as a final treatment option.

The process, totaling 28 sessions, was an arduous period, but rather than hiding it, she went public to advocate for improved social perceptions of mental health issues.

In particular, Lyuh's confession, built upon a successful career as a professional woman, highlighted how "outward stability of life and inner pain can be different."

Her message—that individuals in high social positions can also experience depression and anxiety—resonated deeply with many.

- The pain behind the label "The Nation's Depressed Woman"

In a previous broadcast, Hong described Lyuh as "the Nation's Depressed Woman that many people know."

However, the expression carried weight beyond a simple joke.

Lyuh confessed to experiencing intense emotional shifts during menopause and struggling with sudden irritability toward her husband.

Hong also admitted to the difficulty of the situation, stating, "I was also very exhausted," revealing that both spouses had endured a long period of hardship.

Depression is a condition that is difficult to overcome through willpower alone, requiring families to understand and coordinate with the patient's pain. This broadcast raises questions not only about individual treatment but also about how to maintain understanding within a long-term marriage.

- Will real change begin after reuniting?

Lyuh and Hong have begun living together again after their long separation. However, sharing a space does not guarantee that all problems will be resolved.

In fact, being closer may mean they must now face each other's wounds and emotions more directly.

Ham's diagnosis serves as more than mere advice for Lyuh; it is a call to confront the emotions she has long ignored.

As a successful doctor, entrepreneur, and broadcaster, the public is watching to see how Lyuh, who has endured significant personal suffering behind her professional image, will navigate this turning point.

The next chapter of Esther Lyuh and Hye-Gul Hong's story will air on SBS "Same Bed, Different Dreams 2: You Are My Destiny" on the 4th at 10:40 PM.