What the Robin Williams tragedy can teach us about depression
Robin Williams, the iconic comedian with too many notable roles to name, died Monday of an apparent suicide after a long battle with depression. If anything good has come of his tragic death, it's that it brought to light a discussion about the disorder.
Here are answers to five common questions about depression, its symptoms and how you can help yourself and your loved ones.
- What is depression?Depression is medical disorder. People who are depressed experience long-term struggles with emotions such as discouragement, sadness and disinterest to the point that it can interfere their day-to-day functioning.
- How common is depression?If you are experiencing depression, you are not alone. One in five adults in the U.S. develops depression or another type of mood-related disorder during their lifetime, and depression affects more than 19 million Americans each year. However, almost 80% of people with mood-related disorders do not receive what the National Institute of Mental Health defines as "minimally adequate treatment."
- What are the common symptoms?The NIMH lists these symptoms:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
- What should I do if I think I have depression?First and foremost, you should seek out medical advice. Different methods of treatment work for different people, and the best way to make informed decisions is to work with a doctor. A doctor can also help you understand what is causing your symptoms if it is not depression.
- What are some resources I can use to learn more?To find therapists specializing in depression and related disorders in your area: http://www.adaa.org/netforum/findatherapistTo find the nearest chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which can connect you with local resources, including local hotlines: http://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=Your_Local_NAMI&Template=/CustomSource/AffiliateFinder.cfmTo screen yourself or a loved one for signs of depression (though this should never replace talking to a professional): http://www.adaa.org/iving-with-anxiety/ask-and-learn/screenings/screening-depressionPBS' 2008 program, DEPRESSION: Out of the Shadows, lists several resources for understanding depression, especially in women, certain age groups, and minorities, on its website: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/takeonestep/depression/resources.html#print
When depression becomes serious, it can lead to suicide. Take care of yourself and loved ones by watching for these signs provided by the Centers for Disease Control:
- Talking about wanting to die
- Looking for a way to kill oneself
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
A message from the CDC:
The more severe these symptoms are, the higher the risk is. If a friend or loved one is displaying these symptoms, don't leave them alone. Get help!
You can call the National Suicide Prevention help line at 800-273-TALK (8255), or another suicide help line. You can contact a psychiatrist. You can take your loved one to the emergency room.
