Day focuses attention on depression screening

“I had symptoms for decades: bursts of anger, loss of appetite, lack of interest in work and activities, avoiding people, constantly thinking about death,” wrote Mike Stephens to a nationally syndicated help column.

“A few years ago it hit me hard. For weeks I couldn’t leave my bed, and suicidal thoughts filled my mind. I was a ‘dead man walking.’ My emotions were burned away, and I saw no point in living,” Stephens said as he then described his journey through therapy to get a handle on his depression.

The Centers of Disease Control estimates one in ten of us suffers from different levels of depression. Thursday, Oct. 11, is National Depression Screening Day and possibly the day you will want to go online and take the screening test or encourage someone you know to do so.

Google “depression screening” for several evaluations. They’re all similar and will assess whether you’re just feeling a little blue or in need of professional help. Try www.helpyourselfhelpothers.org, www. mayoclinic.com/health/depression or www.mentalhealthamerica.net.

The National Library of Medicine describes depression as feeling blue, unhappy, miserable or down in the dumps. Although most of us will feel that way on occasion, feelings of sadness, loss, anger and frustration that interferes with your everyday life and lasts weeks or longer are most likely a sign of depression.

The exact cause is unknown. Many researchers think it’s caused by chemical changes in the brain; perhaps due to a problem with genes, or triggered by certain stressful events, it’s more likely a combination of both. Although it sometimes runs in families, anyone, even children, can develop depression.

Depression triggers include alcohol or drug abuse; some medical conditions such as an underactive thyroid; cancer or long-term pain; some medications; sleep disorders, and stressful life events. Events such as a failed relationship, a failed class, death or illness of a close friend or family member, divorce, childhood abuse or neglect, job loss or social isolation can contribute to depression.

Sometimes symptoms manifest as anger and discouragement rather than unhappiness. The depressed might be agitated, restless and irritable or possibly just become withdrawn and isolated. Difficulty concentrating, chronic fatigue, loss of interest in once enjoyed activities, dramatic change in appetite, thoughts of death or suicide are depression indicators.

If, when you go through the screening, it indicates that you may suffer from depression, contact your healthcare professional. He or she will determine which of several treatments known to be successful will be so for you. Medications, cognitive behavioral therapy and support groups have a proven track record. As do electroconvulsive therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation and often light therapy. Your clinician will know the best course of action for your specific condition.

All of us can take the Mayo Clinic’s advice on preventing depression. Set priorities and simplify tasks to reduce stress. Stay physically active. Make time for activities we enjoy. Get about eight hours of sleep a night. Connect with supportive family and friends. Eat more healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

“I’m alive today because I managed to get help in time,” Stephens wrote. “But I lost years of real living before I understood that I had depression. I strongly urge anyone reading this who even suspects they might have depression to do a screening.”

Kathy Hubbard is a trustee on Bonner General Hospital Foundation Board. She can be reached at kathyleehubbard@yahoo.com, 264-4029.