Speaking out on depression
The cost associated with depression is second only the costs associated with cancer, and results in approximately 4000 suicides per year. Canada has the third worst record of treatment of the disorder and among the age group of 10-19 suicide it is the second leading cause of death.
Problems around the awareness of this disease are aggravated by the following conditions:
- Low funding for research
- It is more difficult to empathize with these patients
- There are no replacement parts for the mind
- Lack of publicity
The cause can be found in a chemical imbalance in the body and is manifested by:
- Loss of interest in the patients surroundings
- Loss of hope
- Loss of memory
- Loss of focus
- Feeling tired and numb
- Loss of confidence
There are three types of disorders:
1. Bipolar disease, manic depression
2. Psychosis, hallucinations
3. Anxiety Disorders
The treatment with cognitive behaviour therapy can be effective when it is recognized in the early stages. Treatment with medication available, effectiveness is highly dependent on the individual.
Patients also need lots of support and understanding from their environment.
Rotarian Paul Peters thanked the speakers and praised their courage to come forward with so much personal experiences.