(BlackDoctor.org) — Depression is one of the leading causes of disability
worldwide. That’s the word from NIH’s National Institute of Mental Health
(NIMH), the component of the federal government that studies depression and
other mental illnesses.
You probably know depression as a medical condition that primarily affects
the brain. Its symptoms include a persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood,
feelings of hopelessness, pessimism and worthlessness, and a loss of interest in
hobbies and activities once enjoyed. The “Symptoms of Depression” side box
contains a more complete description.
But according to Dr. Husseini Manji, chief of NIMH’s Laboratory of
Pathophysiology, the psychological symptoms of depression are just the “tip of
the iceberg.” Because the brain is the body’s “control center,” the effects of
depression spread throughout the body, often resulting in problems with sleep,
appetite, energy level, motivation, memory, and concentration. Performing
everyday activities can be an enormous challenge for people who are
depressed.
A Devastating Illness
“Depression needs to be recognized as a devastating illness,” Dr. Manji
explains. “It can occur with other diseases, but it is a very real medical
condition in its own right.”
Research shows that depression increases the risk of death for people of all
ages. For those with other illnesses such as type 2 diabetes and certain
infections, depression can make their symptoms worse. Elderly people with
depression may be at higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease, and depression may
increase their chance of being admitted into a nursing home.
No one knows better the ravages of depression than the estimated 20 million
Americans of every age who suffer from depression. Although women and older
people seem to have higher rates of depression, depression can strike anyone at
any time. Those who have recently experienced a traumatic event, such as a
divorce, job loss or sudden death of a loved one, may be at higher risk.
More Than Stressed Out
Dr. Manji emphasizes that depression is not a character flaw, a lack of
willpower or a sign of emotional weakness. “You can’t simply wish or will
depression away,” he says.
People who are “stressed out” may think that their current situation is to
blame, but a prolonged case of the blues that interferes with normal functioning
is usually the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain,” he explains.
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That’s why treatment is so important — and the sooner the better. There are a
variety of treatments that work, including medications and psychotherapy. NIMH
researchers and others are constantly looking at new ways to treat and prevent
depression.
If you think you may be depressed, seek professional help (see “Where to Get
Help”) and learn ways to cope to help you feel better (see “Tips for Coping With
Depression”). Don’t let depression keep you down.
— a report from The NIH Word on Health, April, 2003
For more information on depression, see NIMH’s booklet on depression at http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/depression.cfm.
Links to other depression publications from NIH can be found at http://health.nih.gov/result.asp?disease_id=183.
You can also phone, fax or send e-mail to:
National Institute of Mental Health
Information Resources and Inquiries
Branch
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 8184, MSC 9663
Bethesda, MD
20892-9663
Telephone: 301-443-4513
Fax: 301-443-4279
TTY:
301-443-8431
E-mail: [email protected]
A Word to
the Wise…
Tips for Coping With Depression
Depression can make
you feel exhausted, worthless, helpless, and hopeless. Negative thoughts and
feelings can make some people feel like giving up. It is important to realize
that these negative views are part of the depression and typically do not
reflect the actual circumstances. Negative thinking begins to fade as treatment
takes effect. In the meantime:
Break large tasks into small ones, set
some priorities, and do what you can.
Try to be with other people and
confide in someone; it is usually better than being alone.
Participate
in activities that make you feel better. Mild exercise, going to a movie, a ball
game, or participating in religious, social, or other activities may help.
Expect your mood to improve gradually. Feeling better takes time.
People rarely “snap out of” depression, but they can feel a little better
day-to-day.
Postpone important decisions until the depression has
lifted. Before deciding to make a significant decision, such as changing jobs,
getting married or divorced, discuss it with others who know you well and have a
more objective view of your situation.
Remember, as your depression
responds to treatment, positive thinking will replace the negative thinking that
is part of the depression.
Let your family and friends help you.
Source: National Institutes of Mental Health
