When we have the flu, or a sprained ankle, or a bruised knee, we have different levels of alarm, concern, expectancy and different ways of responding, varying from mild concern to extreme disappointment. Equally important, we are different individuals with different levels of tolerance for pain, suffering, inconvenience, fear, apprehension and compliance. One patient with carpal tunnel syndrome may have been ready for a career change while another may feel that this limitation is a major burden. We cannot depend upon a physical diagnosis to tell us what the patient expects from care. One patient may be 46 and worked since she was 16 and see the limitations as a justification for finally having others care for her.
Depression is an affective or mood disorder.
Depression is not, itself, a disabling condition. Many believe that not working contributes to the sense of helplessness that feeds depression. Unquestionably, becoming financially dependent and nonproductive does little to resolve the diminished feelings of self-worth that accompany depression. Psychotherapy, in combination with some of the newer medications, have been shown to be an impressive combination for rapid improvement or relief from depression. In summary, depression is most often an easily treatment and infrequently disabling condition.