What Women Should Know About Depression (NAPSA)—Learning what you can about depression is always a smart idea but it may be even more important for women. Statistics show that women are twice as likely as men to be affected by depression, regardless of race or ethnic background. As many as one in eight women will experience depression. “Nearly 18 million Americans experience depression every year,” said Ken Duckworth, M.D., medical director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “The good newsis that with a correct diagnoSis, most people can be treated effectively. The bad newsis that two-thirds of all people living with depression don’t get the help they need.” Some experiences related to depression are unique to women, including postpartum changes, infertility and hormonal fluctuations throughout the course oflife. To help women find the resources they need, NAMI hascre- ated a brochure, “Women and Depression.” “Information in the brochure will help women to help them- selves—as well as other women,” said Duckworth. “All family members will benefit by using it asa reference.” Major depression is a medical illness that affects a person’s mind, mood, body and behavior. It is more than “feeling down” because of a recent loss or the result of family, work or financial stresses; it occurs when these feelings become more intense and persist to the point that they affect daily functioning. E: p Although nearly 18 million Americans experience depression every year, only one-third seek help. Middle-aged Hispanic women have the highest rate of depressive symptoms, followed by middle-aged African-American women. Young Asian-American women have the highest rate of younger groups and the second-highest rate of suicide among 15- to 24year-olds. American Indians and Alaska Native adolescents are most likely to attempt suicide and die from it. The 138-page brochure high- lights symptoms, causes, women of color, life stages and treatment, with additional sections on seeking professional help, self-help, preventing recurrent depression and helping other women. The brochure’s publication was supported by an educational grant from Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. For more information, visit www.nami.org/womendepression.
