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Depression info 'is inaccurate'
[Posted: Wed 24/05/2006 - www.irishhealth.com]
By Deborah Condon
Much of the information on depression available in this country is misleading and inaccurate. As a result, many of those affected fail to seek treatment, a meeting in Dublin has heard.
The meeting involved experts from psychiatry, general practice and counselling/therapy, as well as patient groups. It highlighted the fact that many people continue to be misled by inaccurate information on depression.
"There are many myths about depression which have a major impact on those who may be experiencing the condition. This is an illness that is disabling and beyond the person's coping ability - it should not be confused with everyday ups and downs or occasional feelings of low mood", explained consultant psychiatrist, Professor Timothy Dinan of Cork University Hospital.
Recent research shows that many people with depression find the condition difficult to discuss, even with their doctor. Furthermore public attitudes can add to the problem. Almost one in four people believe that depression is a state of mind and not really an illness.
Also speaking at the meeting, Geraldine Clare, CEO of depression support group, Aware, highlighted evidence that suggests that as many as 80% of suicides can be traced to depression.
"Depression is underestimated by those who have not experienced it, underreported by those in its grip and therefore is an under-treated illness. It is estimated that only 25% of people with depression are receiving adequate treatment, with many people never even presenting for treatment", Ms Clare said.
Commenting on the treatments available for people, Dr Eamonn Shanahan, chairman of the Irish College of General Practitioners, said that modern antidepressants 'are key in helping a person to recover'.
"Many patients seem to be reluctant to take medicines for depression, yet would have no hesitation to take medicines for other diseases such as heart disease or diabetes", he said.
He added that the evidence to support the effectiveness and safety of modern antidepressants 'is robust' and that they must be taken for a minimum of six months, as this reduces the chances of depression recurring by 50%.
Also commenting on treatment, Claire Missen, chairperson of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, said that therapy can be effective in helping people recover from depression. However she pointed out that when a person 'is in the grip of depression', therapy is likely to be more effective once that person has commenced treatment with medicines.
"It is key that the GP, therapist and in some instances psychiatrist, work together for the patient", Ms Missen said.
The meeting took place in the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin.
An estimated 300,000 Irish people are affected by depression. For more information, call Aware's helpline at 1890 303 302. Also see our Depression Clinic at...
http://www.irishhealth.com/clin/depression/
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