With the growing awareness of the seriousness of the disorder and the biological causes, the understanding and support of family and friends may be easier to come by. More and more people are coming out, which encourages people to talk about it. Experts say that no one, young or old, has to accept feelings of depression as a necessary part of life. The National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association and other organizations offer medical information and referrals. By trying different options for facing their personal challenges, Anne and others have learned what treatments help them most.
Researchers continue to make great strides in understanding and treating depression.
For example, scientists are beginning to learn more about the chromosomes where affective disorder genes appear to be located. St. John the Baptist's birthday is celebrated on June 24. It is also around this time that the pretty yellow flowers of St. John's wort, the plant named in his honor, bloom in Germany. The plant may be more than just beautiful. Hypericum, the concentrated extract of flowers and leaves, is thought by some to be effective in treating depression.