Major depression is a treatable mental illness
Several months ago, you may have heard of the death of the actor and comedian, Robin Williams. He committed suicide. He suffered with major depression, among other illnesses.
What is major depression?
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) defines major depression as a severe medical illness that affects one’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, mood, and physical health. It is a mood state that goes well beyond temporarily feeling sad or blue.
Major depression is also known as clinical depression, major depressive illness, major affective disorder, and unipolar mood disorder.
All age groups and all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups can suffer from major depression. Nearly 18 million Americans – one in ten adults – experience depression each year, and about two-thirds do not get the help they need.
Women experience twice the rate of depression as men, regardless of race or ethnic background. Major depression is also common in older adults.
What are the symptoms?
According to NAMI, to meet the criteria for major depression, most of the following symptoms must be present for at least two weeks, or interfere with work or family life:
How is major depression treated?
Of all the mental illnesses, major depression is among the most responsive to treatment. Although major depression can be a devastating illness, it is highly treatable. Between 80-90 percent of people suffering from serious depression can be effectively treated. They can return to their routine daily activities and experience relief from their feelings of depression.
Many types of treatment are available. The type chosen depends on the individual and the severity and patterns of the illness. According to NAMI, there are three well-established types of treatment for major depression: medications -- antidepressants, psychotherapy – “talk therapy,” and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). For some people who have a seasonal component to their depression, light therapy may also be used.
These treatments may be used alone or in combination.
When is emergency help needed?
NAMI cautions that the following conditions are considered psychiatric emergencies and require a timely mental health evaluation. They may require a visit to your local emergency room.
How can you help yourself?
NAMI lists some practical things you can do to manage major depression.
What is NAMI?
Families, friends, persons suffering with major depression, and professionals may get in touch with one or more of the NAMI organizations. NAMI Ruston can provide information, guidance, and support for you and your family. This nonprofit organization promotes collaboration with local, state, and national organizations to provide education, advocacy, research, legislation, and increased funding support.
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Article published by Jerrilene Washington, Ed.D., a retired associate professor from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and the president of the Ruston chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI Ruston.
What is major depression?
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) defines major depression as a severe medical illness that affects one’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, mood, and physical health. It is a mood state that goes well beyond temporarily feeling sad or blue.
Major depression is also known as clinical depression, major depressive illness, major affective disorder, and unipolar mood disorder.
All age groups and all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups can suffer from major depression. Nearly 18 million Americans – one in ten adults – experience depression each year, and about two-thirds do not get the help they need.
Women experience twice the rate of depression as men, regardless of race or ethnic background. Major depression is also common in older adults.
What are the symptoms?
According to NAMI, to meet the criteria for major depression, most of the following symptoms must be present for at least two weeks, or interfere with work or family life:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in regular activities that were once enjoyed.
- Restlessness, irritability, or excessive crying.
- Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, low self-esteem, or guilt.
- Inabilities to concentrate, remember things, and make decisions.
- Changes in sleep and appetite (too much or too little).
- Loss of energy and feeling “slowed down.”
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or attempts at suicide.
- Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.
How is major depression treated?
Of all the mental illnesses, major depression is among the most responsive to treatment. Although major depression can be a devastating illness, it is highly treatable. Between 80-90 percent of people suffering from serious depression can be effectively treated. They can return to their routine daily activities and experience relief from their feelings of depression.
Many types of treatment are available. The type chosen depends on the individual and the severity and patterns of the illness. According to NAMI, there are three well-established types of treatment for major depression: medications -- antidepressants, psychotherapy – “talk therapy,” and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). For some people who have a seasonal component to their depression, light therapy may also be used.
These treatments may be used alone or in combination.
When is emergency help needed?
NAMI cautions that the following conditions are considered psychiatric emergencies and require a timely mental health evaluation. They may require a visit to your local emergency room.
- Suicidal thoughts.
- Violent thoughts directed at someone else.
- Feeling at risk of harming your children.
- Engaging in bizarre or unusual behaviors.
- Hearing voices or having visions.
- Convinced of things that are not true or rational.
How can you help yourself?
NAMI lists some practical things you can do to manage major depression.
- Take care of yourself -- eat well, exercise, relax, and get enough sleep.
- Manage your time realistically and develop realistic expectations of yourself.
- Follow your medical treatment plan. Take medications as prescribed, and follow all other treatments, as directed.
- Build a strong, reliable support network, persons that can support and help you both between and during episodes of major depression.
What is NAMI?
Families, friends, persons suffering with major depression, and professionals may get in touch with one or more of the NAMI organizations. NAMI Ruston can provide information, guidance, and support for you and your family. This nonprofit organization promotes collaboration with local, state, and national organizations to provide education, advocacy, research, legislation, and increased funding support.
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Article published by Jerrilene Washington, Ed.D., a retired associate professor from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and the president of the Ruston chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI Ruston.