Depression: The mental illness that doesn't discriminate

Depression is an illness that affects your mood, making you feel tired, hopeless, worthless, sad and alone. But people who suffer from depression are not alone.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 9.5 percent of Americans, or nearly 19 million people suffer from a depressive illness each year. The effects of this illness are far-reaching, destroying lives and families, and negatively affecting the workplace. But depression, in most cases, is a curable disease.

Many people who suffer from depression don't actually realize that what's wrong with them is an illness. Or, they are too affected by their depression to help themselves by seeking treatment. Therefore, most cases of depression, even severe depression, go undiagnosed and untreated.

Though depression is a relatively recent term, the actual disease has been around for a very long time. The ancient Greeks called this state "melancholia" and recorded its symptoms even thousands of years ago.

Depression can be caused by a number of factors. A person could be pre-disposed to depression because of genetic or inherited traits. Onset could be caused by a major traumatic event, such as the death of a child or spouse. Depression may result from the diagnosis of a serious illness or other health condition, or it may even be caused by gloomy weather, often called "Seasonal Affective Disorder" or SAD. Everyone is different, thus every case of depression is different. That is why it's important to get to the root of the problem by seeking professional help.

Therapy and medication for depression have come a long way in recent years. Thanks to the persistence of social workers, therapists, physicians, pharmaceutical researchers and loved ones, depression is finally being recognized — and treated — as a legitimate and serious problem.

Historically, depression or bi-polar disorder was simply not discussed. Individuals suffering from mental illness were ignored or isolated from the public as if they had a shameful secret. Yet, by the mid-twentieth century, doctors began realizing that depression was a much more widespread illness. Writers like Sylvia Plath began to talk openly and honestly about depression, and the public followed.

In fact, talk has become one of the best tools in fighting depression. "Talk therapy" has helped many people overcome their depression and help their loved ones understand what they are going through. Sometimes a couple brief sessions with a therapist can do the trick, while others may need on going care to avoid a relapse. According to Sharon McCahon, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) at Bonner General Hospital, "The most effective tool in battling depression is changing one's attitude and thinking patterns. Talk therapy can help develop a more positive attitude and strategy for dealing with problems."

Sometimes, however, depression cannot be helped by talk therapy alone and medication may be recommended by a physician. Luckily, in the last twenty years there have been major pharmaceutical advances in treating depression. Today, doctors are able to locate the physical origin of depression in the brain.

The hypothalamus portion of the brain operates as our nerve messaging system. Here, neurotransmitters communicate messages to corresponding receptors. When these levels are abnormally low or don't work right for some reason, this communication slows down and depression can result. Drugs aimed at balancing neurotransmitter levels have been particularly effective in the battle against depression.

The biggest fear, the one that looms in the back of everyone's mind at the mention of depression, is suicide. Every year thousands of people attempt suicide, even kids. In fact, it's the second leading cause of death in teens in the US. If these statistics scare you, they should. Don't ignore signs of suicide.

Warning signs of suicide include threats to follow through with it, withdrawal and desire to be alone, a life crisis for someone already depressed, aggression and defensiveness, gifting of treasured personal possessions, or an outward calm, indicating that the person has finally reached a decision to choose suicide as a solution to their problems. "If you notice these clues in someone, reach out and ask them if they are feeling suicidal," says McCahon. Then seek help immediately. Talk to a physician, pastor, social worker, someone at the hospital, or any trusted health professional.

The most important thing about depression is that it does not discriminate. It affects children, the elderly, people with histories of depression, and people without. Just remember that if you suffer from depression, you are not alone and there is help available. If you or someone you love might be depressed, talk to your physician. With today's insight, medications and teams of professionals available to help, there's no need for suffering.