October Depression Awareness Month

National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH)

National Mental Health Association

Care Choices HMO along with the Michigan InterPlan Behavioral Health Workgroup would like to remind you that Thursday October 6, 2005 is National Depression Screening Day (NDSD).

Did you know that depression is a treatable medical illness that affects millions of Americans? There are several types of depression—major depression, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, and Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Major depression is a serious and common disorder of mood that is pervasive, intense and affects the mind and body at the same time. Current theories indicate that clinical depression may be associated with an imbalance of chemicals in the brain that carry communications between nerve cells that control mood and other bodily systems. Other factors may also come into play, such as negative life experiences including stress or loss, medication, other medical illnesses, and certain personality traits and genetic factors.¹

It’s important to note that major depression will not just “go away.” A person cannot “snap out” of major depression simply by trying to think positive thoughts, any more than people with diabetes or heart disease can “snap out” of those illnesses. Depression is a condition that requires medical treatment.

Learn more about this and other types of depression.

Symptoms of depression:

• Persistent sad, anxious or empty mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities
• Decreased energy, a feeling of fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Restlessness or irritability
• Inability to sleep or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Unfortunately, many people are unaware they suffer from depression. The first step, and primary goal of NDSD is to encourage people to get screened. There are many community screening sites, where you can obtain free, confidential screening for depression. Visit www.mentalhealthscreening.org to find a location near you.

You can also take a free, confidential depression screening, or call 1-877-769-5501 for a telephone screening.

Care Choice members are encouraged to talk to their primary care physician about depression, however, members may call the Mental Health/Substance Abuse number on their Care Choices member card to speak directly to a behavioral health specialist, 24/7; or to obtain care, without a referral.

1. NDSD, Screening for Mental Health