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Millions With Depression Suffer UnnecessarilyDepression often goes untreated because people don't recognize the symptoms Life is full of good times and bad, of happiness and sorrow. But when you are feeling "down" for more than a few weeks or you have difficulty functioning in daily life, you may be suffering from a common, yet serious medical illness called clinical depression. You are not alone Every year more than 19 million American Adults suffer from clinical depression. Young or old, man or woman, regardless of race or income - anyone can experience clinical depression. Depression can cause people to lose the pleasure from daily life. It can complicate other medical conditions - it can even be serious enough to lead to suicide. Yet this suffering is unnecessary. Clinical depression is a very treatable medical illness. So why don't many people seek the help they need? Clinical depression often goes untreated because people don't recognize the many symptoms. They may know some symptoms, such as sadness and withdrawal, but they are unaware of others, including anxiety, irritability, and sleeplessness. Some incorrectly believe that only people whose depression lasts for months, or who have completely lost their ability to function, have "real" - or "clinical" - depression. Many people even wrongly think that depression is "normal" for older people, young adults, new mothers, menopausal women, or those with a chronic illness. The truth is, clinical depression is never "normal," no matter what your age or life situation. Also, people need to know that treatment for clinical depression really works - and to learn how to go about finding the treatment they need. The Problem of Suicide In 1998, suicide was the eighth leading cause of death for all Americans, the third leading cause of death for those aged 15-24, and the second leading killer in the college population. These statistics demonstrate the seriousness of suicide, which is often linked to untreated depression. Clinical depression affects millions adults every year and 95 percent of college students who commit suicide are suffering from a mental illness, usually depression. Although women suffer from clinical depression and attempt suicide more than men, men are more likely to complete the act. Any talk of suicide by a friend or loved one should be taken seriously and help should be sought immediately. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, contact 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784- 2433) or www.hopeline.com. If someone you know is about to take their own life, call 911. Clinical Depression can be Successfully Treated Clinical depression is one of the most treatable of all medical illnesses. In fact, more than 80 percent of people with depression can be treated successfully with medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both. Only a qualified health professional can determine if someone has clinical depression. But knowing the symptoms of clinical depression can help as you talk with your health professional. As with many illnesses, if treatment if needed, the earlier it begins, the more effective it can be. And, early treatment increases the likelihood of preventing serious recurrences. You Do Not Have to Cope with Clinical Depression on Your Own Some people are embarrassed to get help for depression, or they are reluctant to talk about how they are feeling. Others believe that depression will go away on its own. You can't just "Tough it out!" Help is available. For more information on depression: National Mental Health Association National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Families for Depression Awareness Information for this article was taken from the National Mental Health Association web site www.NMHA.org. home | provider database | mental health library | links & resources | donate | join provider database | contact us |
