Depression: Co-Occurrence Of Depression With Medical, Psychiatric, And Substance Abuse Disorders 1/7/02 ?
Q.Clinical depression is a common and serious medical illness that can be effectively treated. The risk of clinical depression is often higher in individuals with serious medical illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes. However, the warning signs are frequently discounted by patients and family members, who mistakenly assume feeling depressed is normal for people struggling with serious health conditions. In addition, the symptoms of depression are frequently masked by these other medical illnesses, resulting in treatment that addresses the symptoms but not the underlying depression.
A.Cancer and Depression One in four people with cancer also suffer from clinical depression. [8] Depression is sometimes mistaken as a side effect of corticosteroids or chemotherapy, both treatments for cancer.8 Depressive symptoms can be mistakenly attributed to the cancer itself, which can also cause appetite and weight loss, insomnia and loss of energy.8 Common Symptoms of Depression and Other Medical Disorders Weight loss, sleep disturbances, and low energy may occur in people with diabetes, thyroid disorders, some neurological disorders, heart disease, cancer and stroke-and also are common symptoms of depression. Apathy, poor concentration and memory loss can occur in individuals with Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease- and also are common symptoms of depression. Medications for high blood pressure, Parkinson's disease, and other medical problems can produce side effects similar to the symptoms of depression. Importance of Treatment People who get treatment for co-occurring depression often experience an improvement in their overall medical condition, better compliance with general medical care and a better quality of life.9 More than 80 percent of people with depression can be treated successfully with medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both.2 * Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce patient discomfort and morbidity, and can also reduce the costs associated with misdiagnosis, and the risks and costs associated with suicide.1 A simple, confidential screening test can help uncover depression. For a free, confidential depression screening log on to www.depression-screening.org or call 1-800-573-4433 to find a local site.
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