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Aug
12
Posted by Patricia Devine on August 12th, 2014
Posted in: News from NLM, News From NNLM PNR, Training & Education
The recent death of Oscar-winning actor and comedian Robin Williams from an apparent suicide has brought attention to the plight of many who suffer from depression, an estimated 1 in 10 adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Depression can be debilitating to those who suffer as well as their friends and family. It can also adversely affect outcomes of chronic and other health conditions, and it can lead to unhealthy behaviors. Although many people with depression do not seek treatment or are not helped by the treatment they receive, the majority can improve with treatment.
The National Library of Medicine’s consumer health resource, MedlinePlus, offers a variety of resources about depression, including educational videos and tutorials, materials in other languages (and the entire site in Spanish), links to symptoms and treatment options, patient handouts, and ways to connect with organizations and support groups. NIHSeniorHealth.gov also provides consumer-based information specific to seniors, as depression is a common problem among older adults. SeniorHealth.gov has the option to increase text size and change the contrast, to make it easier to read. The NIH National Institute on Aging has added depression resources, including causes and prevention, and toll-free numbers to call for help.
The NIH National Institute of Mental Health is the primary organization for research about depression. Check their website for information on clinical trials, health topics, funding opportunities and current research priorities. The also publish booklets, fact sheets and brochure; and host monthly Twitter chats.
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