Depression is a widespread mental illness that causes intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness and personal emptiness. It can be brought on by stress, regret, trauma, loss or even a genetic predisposition to developing the disease. People who are suffering from depression often present with chronic fatigue or appetite changes. They may also experience social disassociation in an attempt to isolate themselves from other people. Fortunately, mental health care is available to help people who suffer from depression. But despite the wide availability of treatments, less than half of depression sufferers seek help for their condition.

Did you know…

that depression is estimated to affect roughly 1 in 10 American adults? The Centers for Disease Control reports that this mental illness can be found in people of all ages and backgrounds, although it seems to be more prevalent within certain populations. Those at heightened risk of depression include:

• People between the ages of 45 – 64
• Females
• African Americans and Hispanics
• People without a high school diploma
• Divorced or widowed people
• Unemployed individuals
• Uninsured people without health coverage

Frequently Asked Questions

Could I need treatment for depression?

If you suspect that you are suffering from depression, seek help immediately. Not only does the illness produce a host of negative symptoms that may worsen with time, but it can also lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control report that depression can have an adverse effect on the long-term outcomes of chronic health conditions like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

What should I expect during depression treatment?

If you seek psychiatric care for depression, you’ll avoid the need to get anti-depressants from a doctor and therapy from a psychologist or counselor. Instead, your psychiatrist will be able to talk with you and educate you about the disease you are suffering from. Whether you experience chronic and severe depression or periodic episodes, your psychiatrist will help you better understand that you are not being judged for your feelings and that no amount of right-thinking or willpower can heal depression.

Will I need to make any lifestyle changes to facilitate my treatment?

In addition to taking any medications you are prescribed, you’ll need to continue visiting your psychiatrist for follow-up appointments. In between visits, your psychiatrist may recommend engaging in more exercise, getting more sunlight, or practicing meditation.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are mental health diseases that are often brought on by stress. The term ‘anxiety disorder’ encompasses a number of psychiatric disorders – all of which can cause mental trepidation, dissociative anxiety, and physical symptoms. Many people suffer from anxiety that is unrelated to any specific circumstance or object, but rather produces ongoing symptoms seemingly at random. This is called generalized anxiety disorder and it is the most common type of anxiety disorder in the U.S.

Did you know…

that anxiety is the most common mental illness in America? According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety affects 18 percent of the adult population in the U.S. But of the 40 million adults over age 18 who are suffering from anxiety, only about 13 million are actively seeking treatment or being treated for the disorder. By failing to seek treatment, the other 27 million are gambling with their health and putting themselves at risk for developing depression.

Frequently Asked Questions

Could I possibly need treatment for anxiety disorder?

You should see a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety. These may include feelings of panic, trembling, heart palpitations, nausea, loss of appetite, feeling dizzy, or even a fear of dying. You may be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder if you experience symptoms for a period of six months or more. Anxiety disorder should always be treated in order to avoid worsening of symptoms or related disorders, such as depression.

What should I expect from anxiety disorder treatment?

You and your doctor will work together to identify any triggers that may be causing your anxiety. This may include severe stress, a previous trauma, lifestyle habits or even underlying neurological conditions. Based on the cause of your anxiety, you begin a treatment planned designed to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Your treatment may include a combination of psychotherapy and medications, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy or deep brain stimulation.

Will I need to make any lifestyle changes to facilitate anxiety management?

If your anxiety is caused by a lifestyle habit, such as excessive alcohol consumption, you may be advised to stop or minimize your drinking habits. Your doctor may also recommend getting more exercise, reducing your stress, and avoiding certain foods and drinks, such as caffeinated beverages.