Many people ignore major symptoms such as hopelessness, lethargy and crying jags, calling them a natural reaction to illness or circumstances. Once the initial shock of diagnosis is over, one person may regain emotional equilibrium, while another will barely be able to function. We're talking about duration and severity of those feelings. An estimated 25 percent to 40 percent of cancer patients are depressed, with those in pain reporting more depression. Another study showed 32 percent of clinically depressed people had substance abuse problems.
Treatment can be as simple as a support group or counseling.
If depression has a physical cause or is a side-effect of medication, doctors can adjust treatment. National Depression Screening Day is open to all, not just those with illnesses. About 4,000 people are expected to be screened this year. The first national screening day was held in 1991 during Mental Health Awareness Week. Detroit Free Press and may not be republished without permission.