Has a friend or family member seemed a little lethargic lately? Are they not responding to texts, opting not to go outside or missing work regularly?
They could be suffering from depression. However, to be sure, it’s first best to talk with them and try to find out.
Depression affects more than 350 million people worldwide. That’s 5 percent of the world’s population. In 2012, 16 million U.S. adults suffered from at least one episode of depression.
The disability is not uncommon, but unfortunately many cases go untreated, especially in teens. Roughly 3 million adolescents suffer from depression, but fewer than one in five get treatment, according to the National Institute of Mental health.
Long time health advocate Tipper Gore sat down with Good Morning America and discussed why many cases of depression go undiagnosed.
“It’s one of the most difficult calls to make,” Gore said. “Teens are already struggling with puberty, peer pressure, self-identity, separation from family, it’s hard for a parent or teacher or coach to diagnosis them, but not for a health professional.”
So, how can tell whether a teen and adult are suffering from depression? Both adult and teen will display similar traits, although the reasons why both become depressed are likely different.
Symptoms include extreme irritability, anxiety and restlessness, anger, loss of interest and thoughts of death or suicide. Physical symptoms can also include insomnia or sleeping too much, severe fatigue or weight gain or loss, to name a few.
If you know a person who is struggling with depression, call Fairwinds Treatment Center. Founded 25 years ago by Dr. M.K. (Khal) El-Yousef, our staff of full-time psychiatrist, nursing professionals and licensed therapists uses a Dual Diagnosis method to treat patients with depression.
