Below you will find information for members and their families about depression, its treatment, and self-care, as well as sources of additional information and support.

Articles

The articles listed below contain useful information on coping with and treating depression.

Bipolar Disorder: What You Need To Know To Help Yourself and Your Loved Ones — 
If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, you may feel helpless and hopeless. The illness, also known as manic-depressive disorder, can cause extreme behavior, so it can be hard to function at work, with your family or in social situations. Some people with bipolar disorder also become suicidal. Help is available; and the best way to start the journey to recovery is to learn more about this disorder.

Depression and Substance Use Disorder — 
Depression is the most common behavioral health diagnosis in adults, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Approximately 18.8 million adults in the U.S have a depressive disorder in any given year.

Depression in Older Adults — 
Everyone feels blue now and then. It’s part of life. But, if you no longer enjoy activities that you usually like, you may have a more serious problem. Feeling depressed without letup can change the way you think and the way you experience emotions. Doctors call this clinical depression.

Depression in Women — 
Depression can be a serious illness that afflicts anyone regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity or social status and should be treated immediately. Women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with a depressive disorder.

Resources

These organizations can provide you with additional information about depression and its treatment. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, National Alliance for the Mentally Ill and the National Mental Health Association can also provide you with information about resources in your state or community. Talk with your clinician about other resources that may be available in your area.

Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
730 North Franklin Street, Suite 501
Chicago, IL 60610
Telephone: (800) 826-3632
www.dbsalliance.org/

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Colonial Place Three
2107 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 300
Arlington, VA 22201-3042
Telephone: (800) 950-NAMI (800-950-6264)
www.nami.org

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
6001 Executive Boulevard
Room 8184, MSC 9663
Bethesda, MD 20892-9663
Telephone: (800) 421-4211
www.nimh.nih.gov

Mental Health America (MHA)
500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820
Alexandria, VA 22314
Telephone: (800) 969-6642
www.mentalhealthamerica.net