Depression often co-occurs with medical, psychiatric, and substance abuse disorders, though it is frequently unrecognized and untreated. This can lead to unnecessary suffering since depression is usually treatable, even when it co-occurs with other disorders. Individuals or family members with concerns about the co-occurence of depression with another illness should discuss these issues with the physician. Symptoms Can Be Relieved in Weeks. The very nature of a depressive illness can interfere with a person's ability or wish to get help.
Depression makes a person feel tired, worthless, helpless, and hopeless.
People with serious depression need encouragement from family and friends to get an accurate diagnosis and to seek the treatment that can ease their pain. In addition to treatment, joining a support group may be helpful. Mutual and Family Support Groups. In addition to professional treatment, many people benefit from joining mutual and family support groups. NIH Publication No.