John Kelly, M.D.

Is depression serious?

Yes, depression is a serious medical condition that involves the body, mood and thoughts. It affects how you eat and sleep. It changes the way you think and feel. People with depression can’t just “snap out of it” or “pull themselves together,” because depression isn’t the same as a passing mood or temporary blues. Left untreated, depression may last for weeks, months or years at a time.
     If you are experiencing some of the following symptoms, you may have depression. Ask yourself if you are feeling: sad or “empty;” irritable or angry; guilty or worthless; pessimistic or hopeless; tired or “slowed down;” restless or agitated; like no one cares about you or like life is not worth living. You may also: sleep more or less than usual; eat more or less than usual; have persistent headaches, stomachaches or chronic pain; have trouble concentrating, remembering things or making decisions; lose interest in work or hobbies; or lose interest in sex.
     If these symptoms are familiar, it’s time to talk with your doctor or other health care professional. Depression can be successfully treated, most often with medication, psychotherapy (“talk” therapy), or a combination of both. Support from family and friends plays an important role as well in treating depression.
Ask for help for depression
Millions of people in the U.S. have depression. Although depression is highly treatable, many do not recognize or seek help for their depression. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the vast majority of people with depression can be helped.
     The feelings and behaviors that are part of depression can hinder a person’s ability to seek help. It may be difficult to admit depressive symptoms and ask for help. It’s important to remember that depression is nothing to be ashamed about.
     If you are feeling depressed, tell someone about your symptoms. Speak with a doctor, nurse, psychologist, social worker or employee assistance professional. This will take courage, but it can make all the difference.
     If you are unsure where to go for help, you can check the phone book under “mental health,” “health,” “social services,” “hotlines” or “physicians” for phone numbers and addresses. If you are thinking about harming yourself due to depression, or you know someone who could harm him- or herself, immediately tell someone who can help.
     Depression can be treated. Preventing and managing depression is essential for drivers, their families and their companies.
     John T. Kelly, M.D., is Chief Medical Officer of Lifeclinic International, which manufactures blood pressure and weight monitors located in many trucking locations. Dr. Kelly was previously Chief Health and Medical Officer of Union Pacific Railroad. Dr. Kelly can be contacted at JKelly@lifeclinic.com.