A study just released this week shows depression is the second-leading cause of disability in the world.
But, how can Americans experience so much depression? The quality of life here is much stronger than most of the rest of the world. Dr. Vineeth John is an associate professor at UT-Health Science Center, Houston. He says you must remember, depression is not just about incidents in your life.
“Depression is actually a biological illness and it has strong genetic loading,” says Dr. John, “and it happens across cultures and countries and various ethnic groups as well.”
Some experts are taking a more holistic approach to treating their depressed patients. Therapies are considered in addition to medicinal.
“Appropriate therapy, appropriate diet, which is very good in nutrients, exercise, spiritual support, social support,” he says, adding, “all these things add up to making a person much more resilient when it comes to handling depression.”