Allentown– November 26, 2002 – The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) released a public service announcement (PSA) featuring U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona. In the segment, the nation’s top doctor explains that mood disorders are real and highly treatable illnesses.

"Clinical depression is more than a case of the blues, and bipolar disorder is not a character flaw," Dr. Carmona says. "These are very real illnesses that affect more than 23 million Americans each year."

"The good news is that they are highly treatable," Dr. Carmona continues. "The bad news is that more than half of the people who could be helped don’t even seek treatment."

The PSA refers viewers to DBSA, which has a toll-free number (800-826-3632), an informational website (mooddisorders.org), extensive printed materials about mood disorders and a network of more than 1,000 support groups across the country. DBSA President Lydia Lewis, praised Carmona for participating in the PSA. 

"The Surgeon General is one of the most respected and trusted people in public health," Lewis said "More than one in 10 Americans are coping with these illnesses. Dr. Carmona’s participation in this PSA will help more people realize there is help available for themselves or their loved ones."

Lewis said the PSA’s message is particularly appropriate during the hectic and often stressful holiday season, which can be particularly difficult for many people with mood disorders.

For information about airing the PSA in your community, contact External Relations at (800) 826-3632 or externalrelations@DBSAlliance.org

DBSA’s mission is to improve the lives of people living with mood disorders. Founded in 1986 and based in Chicago, DBSA (previously known as the National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association) is the nation’s largest patient-directed, illness-specific organization. Guided by a 65-member Scientific Advisory Board comprised of the leading researchers and clinicians in the field of mood disorders, it has more than 1,000 support groups across the country. More than one million people request information and assistance each year.

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