Depression makes pain hurt more. It causes fatigue and lethargy that could exacerbate the loss of energy of many chronic conditions. And depression aggravates social disruption because it tends to make people withdraw into social isolation. As every individual is unique, so is his or her desire to live life to its fullest. We look around for support, for care and concern.
Depression is remarkably common.
Another reason why depression is often overlooked is that an enormous number of other symptoms could mask it. You may have to live with your chronic illness. But you don't have to live with depression. Depression is treatable. One frequent benefit of getting your depression treated is that, once your mood has brightened, your chronic illness often becomes easier to endure and manage.