CLAIMING OUR POWER OVER DEPRESSION

May has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, though we should certainly be concerned about our psychological health 365 days a year.

Much recent attention has been paid to the prevalence of depression in the African American community, and particularly among Black women. According to research, women experience depression at higher rates than men, and Black women experience depression at significantly higher rates than our white sisters--nearly 50% higher. Yet, only about 7% of us seek help. That's a staggeringly low percentage indicating that most of us suffer in silence. But we don't have to!

The causes of depression are many and vary according to each individual. Depression can be brought on by daily life stressors, physiological changes and chemical imbalances, or sudden traumatic events. In some cases, we are genetically predisposed based on family history; all within the context of the very real stress that racism and discrimination can affect on our health as persons of color.

Though we cannot immediately change the impact of social inequities, nor control every event that unfolds in our lives, we can take control of our thoughts, our actions, and our responses. The power lies with us in beating depression! Likewise, whatever the causes of depression in any one particular case, treatment is available and recovery is possible. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of all cases of depression are treated successfully once identified.  

If you or someone you care about is suffering with depression today, take a moment to reach out and seek help.

STAY TUNED FOR MORE ON MENTAL HEALTH IN OUR ONGOING SPECIAL HEALTH ISSUE!

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