Health
Many with depression seeking care
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Dec. 12, 2005
About 8% of the population experienced at least one episode of major depression in 2004 and slightly more than 65% of those sought medical care, according to the "Depression among Adults" report released last month by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Office of Applied Studies.
Researchers at the agency analyzed data from the 2004 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which included questions that could be used to diagnose a major depressive episode.
"The good news is almost two-thirds of people with depression are seeking help," said SAMHSA Administrator Charles Curie. "Clearly, we are making progress in overcoming the stigma that has prevented people from seeking help."
Depression was also associated with an increased risk of illegal drug use and smoking. About 14% of those who had been depressed used an illicit substance and nearly 40% smoked. Of those who were not depressed, only 7% used drugs and approximately 26% smoked.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2005/12/12/hlbf1212.htm.
