Are You Depressed? Find Out Fast

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Tuesday, October 04, 2011

GoLocalProv Health Team

butler screen

A fast, confidential way to learn if you or someone you love needs help

As many as 90,000 Rhode Islanders suffer from depression. Are you, or a loved one, among that number?

To help answer this question in a simple, fast, and confidential manner, Butler Hospital encourages people who may think they have depression to take a free screening on its Web site in recognition of National Depression Screen Day, this Thursday, October 6. The screening, which takes as little as two minutes to complete, can be found online, here.

Invasive, destructive: depression

In 2007, 7.5 percent of adults aged 18 or older (16.5 million people) had at least one episode of major depression in the past year, according to Butler Hospital. Depression has been associated with increased risks of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. A new study published by the American Psychiatric Association suggests that people with depression may be at a higher risk for having a stroke than people who are not depressed. Depression often occurs with other behavioral health problems including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use addictions, and memory disorders.

New research: holistic treatments for depression

While medications have proven to be effective in overcoming depression, a combination of antidepressants and therapy is most effective. In an effort to discover other methods to improve mood, Butler Hospital is conducting a new $1.7 million four-year research study to determine whether adding supplemental care—that is, yoga classes or classes about living a healthy lifestyle—is helpful for people who take an antidepressant medication for depression but are still experiencing some symptoms of depression. Go to www.butler.org/healthybodyhealthymind to learn more about the study or call 455-6487 for more information.