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| |  New Survey Details Surprising Barriers to the Treatment of Depression ATLANTA, April 16, 1996 -- Americans miss the warnings signs of clinical depression, dismiss this devestating illness as a "normal" life event, and are confused about the kind of treatment they need and where to get it, according to a new survey commissioned by the National Mental Health Association (NMHA). More than 17 million people in the United States struggle with this illness each year. While 85 percent of those treated respond positively, two-thirds of all clinical depression sufferers do not seek treatment. As part of its continued efforts to break new ground in educating Americans about clinical depression, the NMHA announced these findings at a press briefing today in New York. "Knowing what people believe are the obstacles to treatment -- whether perceived or real -- enables us to reach out and provide them with the information they need to break out of the box of clinical depression," said Charles Waldron, executive director of the Mental Health Association of Metropolitan Atlanta (MHAMA), the local NMHA chapter. "It is critical for people to recognize that therapy and medication are effective in 80 percent of clinical depression cases; this success rate is far superior to most medical disciplines," he added. 'American Attitudes About Clinical Depression and Its Treatment,' which surveyed 1,166 adult Americans was conducted by The Wirthlin Group between Jan. 19-26, 1996, and builds on a previous survey conducted in 1991. Key findings include: -- Less than one-third of the survey respondents were aware of the "active" symptoms associated with clinical depression such as anxiety, agitation, and reduction in sleep and eating habits. -- Almost half (48 percent) believe depression is a normal part of the aging process. -- More than half (54 percent) would seek treatment from someone other than a health professional (including friends, family and clergy) if suffering from clinical depression; one in four would "handle it alone." -- Almost one-third (30 percent) of survey respondents cite a lack of insurance or money as a barrier to the treatment of clinical depresssion; 78 percent believe treatment should be "fully covered." During the survey, oversampling was conducted among women, African-Americans and older Americans to gauge their particular attitudes and awareness of this widespread illness. The survey results will be used to develop information and action tips to help overcome barriers to the treatment of clinical depression.
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