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Depression Is A Likely Response
To Post-September 11 Trauma
Identification and Treatment
Now is Extremely Helpful in
Treating Trauma Related Depression
CHICAGO — Events on September 11
impacted us all but one aftereffect that may be overlooked is the
likelihood people will experience clinical depression as a direct result
of the of trauma. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (formerly
National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association) (DBSA) is
providing answers to post-attack mental health questions in a new
16-page brochure, Coping with Unexpected Events: Depression and Trauma,
about trauma related depression and its effects.
"We all need to know what to look
for in assessing our mental health during the coming weeks and months
and Coping with Unexpected Events helps us do that by providing
valuable, hands-on information, written for the public, not
physicians," said Lydia Lewis, Executive Director of DBSA.
"Understanding what warning signs of trauma related depression to
look for can lead to early diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention
is important because the symptoms can quickly increase."
People can experience a variety of
responses to a traumatic event — numbness, inability to concentrate,
and mood changes are among them. These are a normal part of recovery but
they are also symptoms of situational or reactive depression. This type
of depression goes away on its own. However, if these types of reactions
persist for more than two weeks or begin to interfere with daily living,
they may be symptoms of a more serious depression.
"The rates of depression are very
high in people who experience trauma," said Lewis. "But with
early and proper treatment, the damaging impact of depression can be
minimized. Depression is a treatable illness and most people respond
well to treatment and are able to bring their lives back into
balance."
What do we now need to look for in the
well-being of our children, families, friends and ourselves? Coping with
Unexpected Events, edited by physicians and people with depression, has
the answers in several pertinent sections:
- How to cope with depression after
trauma
- How to help others cope
- Helping and talking with children
- The effects of trauma on people living
with depression or bipolar disorder
People already living with depression or
manic-depression (also known as bipolar disorder) need to be especially
aware of any changes in mood. They also need to be vigilant about
following their treatment plans -- taking their medication as prescribed
and seeking the support they need so that a traumatic incident doesn’t
worsen symptoms.
For people experiencing depression, DBSA
has an extensive network of nearly 800 support groups that offer a safe,
caring environment where people can share their experiences. Persons
interested in attending a support group can call (800) 826-3632 to learn
the location of a group that meets near them.
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