It is a disorder with many contributing factors, some of which are purely social. By overemphasizing depression as a medical problem in search of a drug solution, you lead people to underestimate its complexity. You unintentionally dissuade them from recognizing the need to learn specific skills in problem solving and forming healthy relationships. Such skills are known not only to reduce depression but to actually prevent depression, something no medication can ever do. Psychotherapy received a mention as potentially helpful but, in fact, it is crucial.
Drug companies try to convince people that medication is the ultimate answer.
Unfortunately, there is no counterpart to advertising the value of strong families and skills for living well. Calif. Because you cannot touch a wound or feel a tumor, people feel mental illness is illusory and, as many say, just a sign of weakness in individuals. Your article demonstrated the depth and complexity of the problem. If only we could have movie stars, politicians, sports heroes, and corporate leaders who have been affected either directly or through their families speak out as forcefully as they do on other diseases and issues. Ted Kenny Denver People taking medications for depression basically fall into three groups.